Analysis of Athletic Clubs Members' Perceptions of Pandemic Management: Validation of a Scale

Abstract

Sport users' perceptions of how the Coronavirus2019 situation was managed can provide valuable insights for sport managers, helping them to make better decisions both now and in the future. This research aims to conduct a preliminary validation of a scale that measures perceptions of how Coronavirus 2019 impact was managed by sports clubs, and to explore the relationship with the satisfaction and future intentions of sports club members. Using a quantitative approach, the Coronavirus Disease 2019-Related Measures scale was adapted. The sample consisted of 148 runners from athletic clubs in Valencia (Spain), through which exploratory, confirmatory and regression factor analyses were performed. The scale was composed of three dimensions: efficient management of Coronavirus 2019, inefficient management of Coronavirus 2019 and well-being at the training facility. Efficient management of Coronavirus 2019 by the sports club and club member satisfaction were significantly predictors of future intentions among club members. This study provides a valid and reliable tool for sports organisations to assess users' perceptions of Coronavirus 2019 management, as well as future pandemics. It also emphasizes the need for managers to be trained in the skills to effectively handle such crisis, as this management will influence users’ future behaviours.