An overview of the sports industry, the various career opportunities it holds and the ways in which Christ-followers can missionaly impact it. Introduction to areas of study such as sociology of sport, sport finance, sport law, sport marketing, and facility and event management.
The importance of sport and recreation worldwide necessitates that believers who feel called to this industry understand its breadth and depth. As students explore the various aspects of sports and recreation management they will be better equipped to discover their specific place of service.
The scope of sport and recreation in our world is enormous and yet the Church has historically done a poor job of engaging them. For the Christian professional or participant, it is important to recognize the responsibilities and opportunities that God presents us in the wide-ranging world of sport and recreation.
While the Bible may not endorse or prohibit sport and recreation activities, it has many principles and guidelines to help us evaluate our involvement and direct us as participants and managers.
Sport and recreation offer limitless possibilities for developing relationships through which the Gospel can be shared and spiritual formation can take place. As we look at the nature and structure of sport and recreation we will see clearly the ways that our work in sport management can impact individuals and cultures.
Whether it is baseball or badminton, snowboarding or swimming, sport and recreation communities exist with their own unique cultures, practices, language and management challenges. Contextualization within these cultures or ‘people groups’ is important if we are to effectively manage sport and communicate the Gospel.
Outside of the particular sport or activity that people enjoy is the larger national, religious, ethnic context within which they live. Sport and recreation is universal as is the need to manage it. Cross-cultural opportunities abound so we must be able to recognize, appreciate and adjust to the diversity we find ourselves in.
The practice of sport and recreation management has a history and ever-growing body of knowledge and practice. In this course, students will be exposed to best practices and current trends in the field.
Students will be tasked with engaging in sport or recreation management (if not currently doing so) as a volunteer so that they can have a ‘laboratory’ within which they can interact with the course content.
