Volunteer – Sport needs you: A scoping review

This study examined volunteers in sport, specifically the steps taken to attract and support them, as well as the measured impact of volunteers. A scoping review was conducted, using the PRISMA guidelines. This resulted in the selection of 37 articles for synthesis and assessing the scope of literature to answer the research question. The findings demonstrate that the methods used and data collected does not portray a clear picture of volunteerism in sport. There is a clear distinction between mega-event volunteers and committed volunteers, in terms of motivations, aspirations and impact. The implications confirmed that more targeted research is needed to answer many questions in the field and allow organisations to operate effectively. Different volunteering patterns require differing recruitment, support and development approaches to effectively equip organisations with the most suitable personnel.