Networking and local sport development–the example of a local sport association in Copenhagen: Evaluation of a local sport association in Copenhagen

The aim of this research is to analyse whether an untraditional local sport association’s work method and organizational structure are useful for future local sport development. The research is based on semi-structured interviews with key individuals, observations and literature about the association. The results of this research show that an untraditional way of organizing local sport has been proven to be very successful, encouraging citizens in the area to become physically active and involved in the local community. This is achieved through partnerships and networks between volunteers, employees in the local community, the national sport associations (the DIF and the DGI) and the municipality of Copenhagen. The less positive aspects of the association’s work methods and organizational structure show that citizens involved in this project and local activities are the ones who already have strong social resources.