Voluntary sports clubs as ‘schools of democracy’? Critique of German sports science

ABSTRACT

In Western societies, modern sports have always been subjected to diverse expectations of social benefits. One especially bold and frequently repeated claim is that voluntary sports clubs serve as ‘schools of democracy’. Based on a pragmatist framework of critique, the present study provides the first comprehensive map of evidence on this subject from German sports science, revealing limitations in the content, research methodologies, and democratic theories of past studies. Based on the shortcomings identified in the established concept of democracy underlying past research, an alternative theory is proposed, rooted in John Dewey's pragmatist philosophy of democracy. The final outcome is essentially alternative ‘schools of democracy’, basically prepared to be tested in further empirical studies.     

A Multidimensional Timing Device for Cinematography

Abstract

Six tests were developed for the purpose of measuring selected basic skills in ice hockey. The test-retest method indicated four tests as reliable. Validity coefficients for each of the four tests when compared to subjective ranking in each skill ranged from .75 to .96. Intercorrelations were computed among the tests. The puck carry test correlated with the other three tests and was determined the best single-item for measuring overall ability. It was concluded that an ice hockey test battery should include at least three of the tests.     

Force-Time Curves of Voluntary Muscular Contraction at Varying Tensions

Abstract

A recording spring-loaded hand ergograph with fast moving paper was utilized to obtain a record of the entire hand contraction sequence. The subjects (N=40) were given a series of six contractions, each beginning at a different initial tension: 0, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 kilograms. The contractions were separated by one minute and the order was systematically rotated to minimize either learning or fatigue. The development of force was found to progress exponentially according to a three-component mathematical equation. The control group (zero pre-tension) achieved a greater maximal force (F=4.5) than all others, and was the only one with a clear advantage in speed and tension. The rate of change constants were comparable, but the early initial (negative) component disappeared at the 20 kilogram condition and beyond. The factor of rate seemed to be independent of tension level.     

The Relationship between Perceptual and Motor Abilities

Abstract

Eighty randomly selected kindergarten pupils were administered one of four figure-ground variations of a gross motor task in order to determine the effects of the various patterns on the performance of the task. All subjects were administered the figure-ground subtest of the Frostig Developmental Test of Visual Perception and the gross motor task which involved walking in a lateral direction between the rungs of a ladder placed in a horizontal position over a floor pattern. An analysis of variance revealed significant differences in the error-time performance among the groups. Pearson product-moment correlation techniques revealed significant relationships between the gross motor task and the Frostig test.     

Rotation,Translation, and Trajectory in Diving

Abstract

Theories causing rotation of the body in diving were critically reviewed and a statement relating angular momentum to both the angle of lean and the angle of force was presented. Equations were developed by which the partition of energy between rotation and translation could be computed.     

Sport governance encounters: Insights from lived experiences

This study explored sport governance practice from the lived experience of one informant spanning a 30-year period in the governance of two sport organisations (basketball and cricket). Hermeneutic phenomenology, the methodological framework used for this study, seeks to grasp the everyday world, and draw insight and meaning from it. The method involves a series of in-depth interviews with one research participant, supplemented by document analysis. Interviews were analysed using an interpretative process which blended the world views of both the participant and researchers. The participant lived through an era of increasing professionalisation within sport. His narrative, which tapped into his governance expertise at state, national and international levels, provides insights into the transition from an amateur to a commercial culture, referred to in this paper as ‘two worlds colliding’. From this narrative, three related themes were identified and labelled, ‘volunteer and cultural encounters’; ‘structural encounters’; and ‘adversarial encounters’. In drawing on hermeneutic philosophy, and highlighting that which has been hidden from view, direction for future research and practice within the sport governance domain is offered. These directions invite scholars to think about future sport governance research as it relates to federated structures and how collaborative governance theory can sharpen the focus in this domain.     

White Paper: functionality and efficacy of wrist protectors in snowboarding—towards a harmonized international standard

The wrist is the most frequently injured body region among snowboarders. Studies have shown that the risk of sustaining a wrist injury can be reduced by wearing wrist protection. Currently, there are a wide variety of wrist protection products for snowboarding on the market that offer a range of protective features. However, there are no minimum performance standards for snowboarding wrist protectors worldwide. The International Society for Skiing Safety convened a task force to develop a White Paper to evaluate the importance and necessity of a minimum performance for all wrist protectors used in snowboarding. The White Paper outlines the need for a general framework for a harmonized international standard and reviews the existing evidence. Therefore, this White Paper may serve as a common base for future discussions. The broader goal of developing and implementing such a standard is to reduce the incidence and the severity of wrist injuries in snowboarding without increasing the risk of adverse events, such as upper arm or shoulder injury. The European standard for inline skating wrist protectors (EN 14120) can serve as a starting point for efforts related to a standard for snowboard wrist protectors, but certain modifications to the standard would be required. It is hypothesized that implementation of a snowboarding wrist protector standard would result in fewer and less severe wrist injuries in the sport and could translate into more riding days for healthy snowboarders and significant health-care costs savings.