Sport, Community Regeneration, Governance and Development : A comparative global perspective

The book examines the ways in which sporting institutions are engaged with the local community in projects that target youth, health or social engagement, and have accidentally and informally become governance mechanisms. This book draws upon the interpretivist approach in governance to suggest that sporting organisations have become governing instruments by default, as the communities they work with and reach out to show greater trust and participation. As this process occurs, the sporting organisations adopt governance like behaviours and roles, as they ascribe these meanings to the renewal projects.

Sporting mega events are playing an increasingly important role in the governance of community regeneration and development across the globe. This book examines the ways in which sporting organisations engage with local communities through projects that target youth, health or social issues and act as key partners in governance mechanisms. Showcasing original research to suggest that sporting organisations, mega events and legacies are now operating as governing instruments in renewal programmes, it sheds new light on the role that sport plays in community regeneration and development on an international scale.

Drawing on the interpretivist approach to governance which bridges theory and practice, the book considers how relationships between sporting mega events, legacies and local communities are evolving to foster trust and encourage participation. With international case studies from the UK, Brazil and South Africa, it reflects on best practice in relation to governance structure, funding mechanisms and partnerships.

Sport, Community Regeneration, Governance and Development: A Comparative Global Perspective is fascinating reading for all students and scholars with an interest in governance, sport development, sport policy, sport management or the sociology of sport.