Perspective of social change in voluntary sport institutions in Portugal

Abstract

The ecological approach allowed the researchers to appreciate the historical, contextual and social nature of changing and to discuss the role of managers and various forces in shaping its course and outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the ecological perspective in diff erent levels of practice and organizations with diff erent social backgrounds to determine social change in youth athletes. The study used 21 semi-structured interviews, fi eld diary and participant observation with signifi cant others (coaches, directors and parents) in two contrasting football clubs, a social oriented and a professional oriented club to record their perceptions and attitudes to being expected to serve social change and the current pressures on themselves and their clubs. It is clear that social clubs have a very important role in their communities and are in need of more attention from political parties.