Investigating Grassroots Sports’ Engagement for Refugees: Evidence From Voluntary Sports Clubs in Germany

Abstract

Unprecedented numbers of refugees have affected European society at large, and the organized sports system, in particular. Combining the concepts of organizational capacity and institutional logics, this article examines the engagement of voluntary sports clubs (VSCs) in the process of refugee integration. Drawing on data from a representative sample of n = 5,170 German VSCs through an online survey, the results indicate that 28% of the VSCs reported engagement in the process of integrating refugees by the end of 2015; however, only 14% initiated concrete measures. The statistical analysis highlights the relevance of institutional logics. VSCs are encouraged to carefully handle the tension between business-like management and intensive voluntary work during the integrative process. Financial capacity appears less relevant; the presence of migrant club members and a more professional organizational design, however, appear beneficial. The results imply that involved stakeholders should intensify capacity building programs in the structural dimension of organizational capacity.