Fears for future of amateur sport in New Zealand

Recent media reports indicating a decrease in sport participation by New Zealanders, is not news to the newly formed New Zealand Amateur Sport Association.

Preserving the value of participation in amateur sport is at the heart of the Association, an incorporated society formed with the goal of promoting and advocating for amateur sport.

Speaking on Radio New Zealand’s Nine-To-Noon programme last week, Chair of the Association Board, Gordon Noble-Campbell highlighted the challenges being faced by amateur sporting codes and clubs in terms of maintaining and growing membership.

Noting the fall in the number of registered secondary school rugby players in the Wellington region over the past two years as one example, Gordon Noble-Campbell said, “the ongoing professionalisation of many sporting codes is acting as a disincentive for many to continue as amateur participants.” “For some, not being selected for a professional development pathway and not being given an attractive alternative, means they lose interest in ongoing participation in the amateur game.”

Noting the fall in the number of registered secondary school rugby players in the Wellington region over the past two years as one example, Gordon Noble-Campbell said, “the ongoing professionalisation of many sporting codes is acting as a disincentive for many to continue as amateur participants.” “For some, not being selected for a professional development pathway and not being given an attractive alternative, means they lose interest in ongoing participation in the amateur game.”

“Increasingly, these people are opting to participate in sport informally, which is challenging for traditional sporting clubs which rely on financial members. As society changes, we need to find ways to ensure amateur sporting participation continues to grow and amateur clubs continue to be a vibrant and meaningful part of our communities.”

You can listen to the interview by clicking here.

The Association is now focused on developing strategies which will promote, foster, advance and encourage the intrinsic values of amateur sport as essential to the growth of vibrant New Zealand communities. These strategies will build on the heritage and history of sport and sporting clubs in New Zealand.

The Association wants to provide information and insights to clubs and other sports providers to help them to connect with people and provide sporting experiences that our communities can enjoy and want to be a part of. The Association will look to do this in various ways, including researching and recommending new concepts which can ensure amateur sport continues to be at the heart of New Zealand’s sporting success, at all levels.

To contact the Association, e-Mail enquiries@asa.org.nz or call 021 140 6118.