Different participants motivations

Your club exists for, and because of, the people at the club; your members, players and participants.

One of the biggest challenges facing sports clubs today is the ability to attract new members and retain existing ones. The way people participate in sport is changing and there are many more alternatives available for someone looking to become fit and active, rather than joining their local sports club (think about Parkrun, fitness bootcamps, going to the gym, and so on).

Many clubs think the solution to this is to simply spend more time and money on marketing the club. This could help to a certain extent, but unless you truly understand your members and offer a service which meets their wants and needs, the money you spend on telling everyone how great your club is will be wasted. It’s time to start thinking like a successful business; your members are your customers and if you don’t provide a positive customer experience, they won’t keep coming back.

We also have specific guidance on the following topics:

Inclusivity

Understand the importance of being an inclusive, welcoming and supportive club for all your members, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or disability.

Disability

Find out why it is important that your club engages with those who have an impairment or health condition and familiarise yourself with the barriers faced by disabled people when it comes to sport.

Women and Girls

Discover what motivates and prevents women from participating in sport and what your club can do to help welcome women and girls.

Talent

Learn how to make the most of talent pathways to support and manage talented members and individuals at your club.

Understanding your community

Understanding the community your club serves, and engaging with it is pivotal to running an effective and sustainable club. Access our practical guidance and case studies on how and why you should take the time to recognise the positive benefits of engaging with your community.