Title: Factors and focuses in the strategic decisions of sporting organisations: empirical evidence in sports associations

Authors: Jorge Soares, Abel Correia

Addresses: Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Madeira, Campus Universitario, 9000–390 Funchal – Madeira, Portugal. ' Faculty of Human Kinetics, Technical University of Lisbon, Estrada da Costa – Cruz Quebrada, 1495–688 Cruz Quebrada, Portugal

Abstract: The aim of this study is to gain insights into the factors and focuses guiding the strategic decision-taking process in the sports associations of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (Portugal). Based on a qualitative research methodology, three techniques of gathering data are used in triangulation: analysis of the contents of documents; observation of the board meetings; and qualitative interviews with presidents. Our findings suggest that the associations should adopt strategies to revitalise and develop the regional competitions and the quality of the representative teams, in addition to fostering active and systematic cooperation with the directors and coaches of the regional clubs, with the objective of creating projects to further develop the sport. The paper|s limitations are considered and recommendations are made.

Keywords: strategic decisions; sports associations; sports directors; political dimensions; sport management; Portugal; regional competitions; regional clubs; cooperation; decision making.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSMM.2009.023242

International Journal of Sport Management and Marketing, 2009 Vol.5 No.3, pp.338 - 354

Published online: 15 Feb 2009 *

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