Examining Sports Development

Sports development takes place in continually evolving – and expanding – territory. If new policies are to be implemented effectively, it is vital to understand how development policy translates into the real world. Until now no single text has examined how sports development policies are implemented and experienced ‘at the coal face’ of community and performance sport.

As well as critical analysis of models and concepts in sports development, Examining Sports Development presents original case studies from practising sports development professionals working in a variety of areas, including:

• national and regional policy
• school sport
• talent identification and development
• sports club development
• coach development
• sport and social inclusion
• sports and crime prevention
• sports and health promotion.

Sports development is evolving as a profession, especially in matters of education and training. This book encourages critical reflection, pointing the way to accountable policymaking and a long-term future for sports development professionals. It is essential reading for all students and practitioners working in sports development.

Mike Collins

was a Senior Lecturer in Recreation Management at Loughborough University for over ten years before 'retiring' to part-time work in Sports Development and Faith Communities at the University of Gloucestershire. Prior to holding this position he founded and then directed the Institute of Sport and Recreation Planning and Management at the same university for five years.