The Stakes Are High: Reinventing the Private Sport Sector as a Catalyst for Good in Communities

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to examine the relationship between community wellbeing and the private sport sector. Specifically, the objectives of this dissertation are to: (1) evaluate community resident perceptions of the private sport sector’s impact upon community wellbeing; and (2) examine the relationship between the private sport sector and stakeholder accountability. Stakeholder theory and locality development provided the most relevant theoretical frameworks to assess the relationship between community wellbeing and the private sport sector. Stakeholder theory enabled the consideration of an alternative vehicle for community development through the private sport sector. The methodology used in the study was Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Participants took part in semi-structured interviews to explore their perceptions and lived experiences associated with Lansdowne Park. The results revealed that: (1) individual and community wellbeing is reciprocal and shaped by sport, leisure, and recreation, (2) the private sport sector should be serving as community stewards, and (3) community voices must be heard and reflected in both private and public agendas. The findings of the study suggest that private sport enterprises can positively contribute to community wellbeing by intentionally designing shared spaces that support spontaneous play and showcase natural beauty.