The contribution of sport participation to overall health enhancing physical activity levels in Australia : A population-based study
- Eime, Rochelle, Harvey, Jack, Charity, Melanie, Casey, Meghan, van Uffelen, Jannique, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Casey, Meghan , van Uffelen, Jannique , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-12
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- Description: Background: The contribution of sport to overall health-enhancing leisure-time physical activity (HELPA) in adults is not well understood. The aim was to examine this in a national sample of Australians aged 15+ years, and to extend this examination to other ostensibly sport-associated activities. Methods: The 2010 Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) was conducted by telephone interview in four quarterly waves. Data from this survey were analysed to categorise leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) as HELPA or non-HELPA, and to categorise HELPA activities and sessions of HELPA activity by setting and frequency. The contribution of sport to HELPA was estimated, both directly through activities and settings classified as sport per se, and indirectly through other fitness activities ostensibly related to preparation for sport and enhancement of sport performance. Results: Of 21,602 respondents, 82 % reported some LTPA in the 12 months prior to the survey. In aggregate, respondents reported 37,020 activity types in the previous 12 months, of which 94 % were HELPA. Of HELPA activities, 71 % were non-organised, 11 % were organised but not sport club-based, and 18 % were sport club-based. Of all sport activities, 52 % were HELPA. Of sport HELPA, 33 % was sport club-based and 78 % was undertaken ≥12 times/year. Sport club members were significantly more likely to have participated in running, but significantly less likely to have participated in walking or aerobics/fitness training, than non-club members. Conclusions: Club sport participation contributes considerably to LTPA at health enhancing levels. Health promotion policies, and more specifically physical activity policies, should emphasize the role of sport in enhancing health. Sport policy should recognise the health-promoting role of community-based sport in addition to the current predominant focus on elite pathways. © 2015 Eime et al.
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Casey, Meghan , van Uffelen, Jannique , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-12
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The contribution of sport to overall health-enhancing leisure-time physical activity (HELPA) in adults is not well understood. The aim was to examine this in a national sample of Australians aged 15+ years, and to extend this examination to other ostensibly sport-associated activities. Methods: The 2010 Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) was conducted by telephone interview in four quarterly waves. Data from this survey were analysed to categorise leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) as HELPA or non-HELPA, and to categorise HELPA activities and sessions of HELPA activity by setting and frequency. The contribution of sport to HELPA was estimated, both directly through activities and settings classified as sport per se, and indirectly through other fitness activities ostensibly related to preparation for sport and enhancement of sport performance. Results: Of 21,602 respondents, 82 % reported some LTPA in the 12 months prior to the survey. In aggregate, respondents reported 37,020 activity types in the previous 12 months, of which 94 % were HELPA. Of HELPA activities, 71 % were non-organised, 11 % were organised but not sport club-based, and 18 % were sport club-based. Of all sport activities, 52 % were HELPA. Of sport HELPA, 33 % was sport club-based and 78 % was undertaken ≥12 times/year. Sport club members were significantly more likely to have participated in running, but significantly less likely to have participated in walking or aerobics/fitness training, than non-club members. Conclusions: Club sport participation contributes considerably to LTPA at health enhancing levels. Health promotion policies, and more specifically physical activity policies, should emphasize the role of sport in enhancing health. Sport policy should recognise the health-promoting role of community-based sport in addition to the current predominant focus on elite pathways. © 2015 Eime et al.
Age profiles of sport participants
- Eime, Rochelle, Harvey, Jack, Charity, Melanie, Casey, Meghan, Westerbeek, Hans, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Casey, Meghan , Westerbeek, Hans , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation Vol. 8, no. 1 (2016), p. 1-10
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- Description: Background: Participation in sport has many health benefits, and is popular amongst children. However participation decreases with age. While the membership records of peak sports organisations have improved markedly in recent years, there has been little research into sport participation trends across the lifespan. This study investigates age profiles of participation in sport and compares these trends between genders and residential locations. Methods: De-identified 2011 participant registration data for seven popular Australian sports (Australian Football, Basketball, Cricket, Hockey, Lawn Bowls, Netball and Tennis) were obtained and analysed according to age, gender and geographical location (metropolitan v non-metropolitan) within the state of Victoria, Australia. All data were integrated and sports were analysed collectively to produce broadly based participation profiles while maintaining confidentiality of membership data for individual sports. Results: The total number of registered participants included in the data set for 2011 was 520,102. Most participants (64.1 %) were aged less than 20 years. Nearly one third (27.6 %) of all participants were aged 10–14 years, followed by the 5–9 year age group (19.9 %). Participation declined rapidly during adolescence. A higher proportion of males than female participants were young children (4–7 years) or young adults 18–29 years; this pattern was reversed among 8–17 year-olds. A higher proportion of metropolitan participants were engaged between the ages of 4–13 and 19–29, whereas a higher proportion of non-metropolitan participants played during adolescence (14–18 years) and throughout mature adulthood (30+ years). Conclusions: Increasing participation in sport is an objective for both government and sporting organisations. In order to have both mass population-based participation, from a health policy and elite performance perspective, we need to further explore the findings arising from the analysis of this extensive data set. Such an examination will lead to better understand of the reasons for attrition during adolescence to inform program and policy developments to retain people participating in sport, for a healthy and sport performing nation.
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Casey, Meghan , Westerbeek, Hans , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation Vol. 8, no. 1 (2016), p. 1-10
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Participation in sport has many health benefits, and is popular amongst children. However participation decreases with age. While the membership records of peak sports organisations have improved markedly in recent years, there has been little research into sport participation trends across the lifespan. This study investigates age profiles of participation in sport and compares these trends between genders and residential locations. Methods: De-identified 2011 participant registration data for seven popular Australian sports (Australian Football, Basketball, Cricket, Hockey, Lawn Bowls, Netball and Tennis) were obtained and analysed according to age, gender and geographical location (metropolitan v non-metropolitan) within the state of Victoria, Australia. All data were integrated and sports were analysed collectively to produce broadly based participation profiles while maintaining confidentiality of membership data for individual sports. Results: The total number of registered participants included in the data set for 2011 was 520,102. Most participants (64.1 %) were aged less than 20 years. Nearly one third (27.6 %) of all participants were aged 10–14 years, followed by the 5–9 year age group (19.9 %). Participation declined rapidly during adolescence. A higher proportion of males than female participants were young children (4–7 years) or young adults 18–29 years; this pattern was reversed among 8–17 year-olds. A higher proportion of metropolitan participants were engaged between the ages of 4–13 and 19–29, whereas a higher proportion of non-metropolitan participants played during adolescence (14–18 years) and throughout mature adulthood (30+ years). Conclusions: Increasing participation in sport is an objective for both government and sporting organisations. In order to have both mass population-based participation, from a health policy and elite performance perspective, we need to further explore the findings arising from the analysis of this extensive data set. Such an examination will lead to better understand of the reasons for attrition during adolescence to inform program and policy developments to retain people participating in sport, for a healthy and sport performing nation.
Organisational readiness and capacity building strategies of sporting organisations to promote health
- Casey, Meghan, Payne, Warren, Eime, Rochelle
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Payne, Warren , Eime, Rochelle
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Sport Management Review Vol. 15, no. 1 (2012), p. 109-124
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- Description: This paper explored the readiness of Victorian State Sporting Organisations (SSOs) in Australia to implement health promotion (HP) programs and sought to understand how they implemented capacity building strategies to promote health. Ten SSOs that received funding to develop and implement HP were recruited for the study. Interviews were conducted with key staff from SSOs and focus groups were undertaken with their Boards of Management. Factors analysed were SSO organisational readiness and capacity building strategies to implement change in organisational processes, organisation and resources, and systems and controls. SSOs made a concerted effort to create and support sport and recreation contexts that promote healthy behaviours. A number of SSOs achieved changes in their culture and systems by implementing formalised and systematic programs such as the club development program. The club development program supported the implementation and sustainability of HP throughout the organisational system of the SSO. These changes, however, were dependent upon organisational readiness; particularly climate and capacity, whereby financially " well off" SSOs had the capacity to engage in HP in a significant way. This paper highlights opportunities and challenges for policy makers to fund HP within sporting organisations; especially when the delivery of sport is a more immediate responsibility than HP. © 2011 Sport Management Association of Australia and New Zealand.
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Payne, Warren , Eime, Rochelle
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Sport Management Review Vol. 15, no. 1 (2012), p. 109-124
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: This paper explored the readiness of Victorian State Sporting Organisations (SSOs) in Australia to implement health promotion (HP) programs and sought to understand how they implemented capacity building strategies to promote health. Ten SSOs that received funding to develop and implement HP were recruited for the study. Interviews were conducted with key staff from SSOs and focus groups were undertaken with their Boards of Management. Factors analysed were SSO organisational readiness and capacity building strategies to implement change in organisational processes, organisation and resources, and systems and controls. SSOs made a concerted effort to create and support sport and recreation contexts that promote healthy behaviours. A number of SSOs achieved changes in their culture and systems by implementing formalised and systematic programs such as the club development program. The club development program supported the implementation and sustainability of HP throughout the organisational system of the SSO. These changes, however, were dependent upon organisational readiness; particularly climate and capacity, whereby financially " well off" SSOs had the capacity to engage in HP in a significant way. This paper highlights opportunities and challenges for policy makers to fund HP within sporting organisations; especially when the delivery of sport is a more immediate responsibility than HP. © 2011 Sport Management Association of Australia and New Zealand.
Sporting organisations as settings for health promotion : What is going on in the sport sector?
- Casey, Meghan, Harvey, Jack, Payne, Warren, Eime, Rochelle
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack , Payne, Warren , Eime, Rochelle
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Paper presented at 2009 Australia Conference of Science and Medicine in Sport, Seventh National Physical Activity Conference, Sixth National Sports Injury Prevention Conference, Be Active '09, Brisbane, Queensland : 14th-17th October 2009
- Full Text: false
- Description: Sport and recreation settings have been used to encourage healthier behaviours through a legislative and policy approach to health promotion via the replacement of tobacco industry sponsorship with health-focused sponsorship. Few studies have used standard and rigorous evaluation tools to identify health promotion policies and practices in sport settings. This study identified health promotion changes within Sport Governing Organisations (SGOs) with respect to the implementation of sport-related health promotion policies and practices in the context of SGO-organised events and in terms of the support provided by SGOs to their affiliated clubs. The Health Promotion and Sport Assessment Tool (HP-SAT) was used to measure health promotion policies and practices regarding smoke-free environments, responsible serving of alcohol, healthy eating, sun protection, injury prevention, club management, and a miscellaneous “other” category (e.g., engagement of health inequality groups). The HP-SAT has moderate to excellent reliability (0.41–0.99). Participants completed the HP-SAT in two phases—first they identified their SGOs current health promotion policies and practices (2007); and second they reflected of their SGO's health promotion policies and practices prior to funding from a health promotion body (2003). For each substantive area in the HP-SAT (e.g. smoke-free environments) a composite score was calculated by summing the numerically coded responses to each item pertaining to the particular area. The scores represented the existence and implementation of health promotion policies and practices and were expressed on a scale of 0-100. Paired samples t-tests were used to test for differences in the scores between the two time points. The mean existence and implementation scores for sport-related health promotion policies and practices for SGO-organised events ranged from 42.9 to 77.6 at the retrospective survey, and increased significantly for the current survey (range: 67.8–90.6; p < 0.05) for all composite scores except sun protection and injury prevention policies. The mean existence and implementation score for sport-related health promotion policies and practices for SGO affiliated clubs ranged from 20.8 to 64.7 at the retrospective survey and 46.3–88.5 at the current survey. Statistically significant increases were found for all composite scores except sun protection and injury prevention (p < 0.05). The existence and implementation of items relating to healthy eating were lowest for both surveys; whilst responses for club management and injury prevention were highest for both surveys. These data indicate that sport has increased its capacity and role in promoting good health since 2003.
Triple G (Girls Get Going): Design of an intervention to foster and promote sport and physical activity among adolescent girls
- Casey, Meghan, Mooney, Amanda, Harvey, Jack, Eime, Rochelle, Telford, Amanda, Smyth, John, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Mooney, Amanda , Harvey, Jack , Eime, Rochelle , Telford, Amanda , Smyth, John , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 14, no. Supplement 1 (December 2011 2011), p. e78
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: C1
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Mooney, Amanda , Harvey, Jack , Eime, Rochelle , Telford, Amanda , Smyth, John , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 14, no. Supplement 1 (December 2011 2011), p. e78
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: C1
Partnership and capacity-building strategies in community sports and recreation programs
- Casey, Meghan, Payne, Warren, Eime, Rochelle
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Payne, Warren , Eime, Rochelle
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Managing Leisure Vol. 14, no. 3 (2009), p. 167-176
- Full Text: false
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- Description: Partnerships between the health sector and various organizations in the community have been encouraged as a new strategy to develop sports and recreation programs, and achieve public health objectives related to obesity prevention. The purpose of this study was to investigate the partnership-related processes and capacity-building strategies associated with the successful implementation of sports and recreation programs. The research design was a multiple-case study with cross-case comparisons. Eight sports and recreation programs funded by the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation were investigated. Data collection included: semi-structured interviews with grant recipients and key partnership members (n=22); and document analysis. A capacity-building framework was used to guide data analysis. The findings showed that partnerships without the engagement of key stakeholders and a diversity of skills, resources, and approaches were limited to 'come and try' events rather than structured sports and recreation programs in the short term. Addressing the development of partnerships, by implementing a phased approach to program development and implementation may assist the sports and recreation sector build capacity to participate in partnership approaches to health promotion.
- Description: 2003008176
Linking physical education with community sport and recreation : A program for adolescent girls
- Casey, Meghan, Mooney, Amanda, Eime, Rochelle, Harvey, Jack, Smyth, John, Telford, Amanda, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Mooney, Amanda , Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Smyth, John , Telford, Amanda , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Health Promotion Practice Vol. 14, no. 5 (2013), p. 721-731
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/LP0990206
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- Description: The engagement of adolescent girls in physical activity (PA) is a persistent challenge. School-based PA programs have often met with little success because of the lack of linkages between school and community PA settings. The Triple G program aimed to improve PA levels of secondary school girls (12-15 years) in regional Victoria, Australia. The program included a school-based physical education (PE) component that uniquely incorporated student-centered teaching and behavioral skill development. The school component was conceptually and practically linked to a community component that emphasized appropriate structures for participation. The program was informed by ethnographic fieldwork to understand the contextual factors that affect girls' participation in PA. A collaborative intervention design was undertaken to align with PE curriculum and coaching and instructional approaches in community PA settings. The theoretical framework for the intervention was the socioecological model that was underpinned by both individual-level (social cognitive theory) and organizational-level (building organizational/community capacity) strategies. The program model provides an innovative conceptual framework for linking school PE with community sport and recreation and may benefit other PA programs seeking to engage adolescent girls. The objective of this article is to describe program development and the unique theoretical framework and curriculum approaches.
- Description: The engagement of adolescent girls in physical activity (PA) is a persistent challenge. School-based PA programs have often met with little success because of the lack of linkages between school and community PA settings. The Triple G program aimed to improve PA levels of secondary school girls (12-15 years) in regional Victoria, Australia. The program included a school-based physical education (PE) component that uniquely incorporated student-centered teaching and behavioral skill development. The school component was conceptually and practically linked to a community component that emphasized appropriate structures for participation. The program was informed by ethnographic fieldwork to understand the contextual factors that affect girls' participation in PA. A collaborative intervention design was undertaken to align with PE curriculum and coaching and instructional approaches in community PA settings. The theoretical framework for the intervention was the socioecological model that was underpinned by both individual-level (social cognitive theory) and organizational-level (building organizational/community capacity) strategies. The program model provides an innovative conceptual framework for linking school PE with community sport and recreation and may benefit other PA programs seeking to engage adolescent girls. The objective of this article is to describe program development and the unique theoretical framework and curriculum approaches. © 2012 Society for Public Health Education.
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Mooney, Amanda , Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Smyth, John , Telford, Amanda , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Health Promotion Practice Vol. 14, no. 5 (2013), p. 721-731
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/LP0990206
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The engagement of adolescent girls in physical activity (PA) is a persistent challenge. School-based PA programs have often met with little success because of the lack of linkages between school and community PA settings. The Triple G program aimed to improve PA levels of secondary school girls (12-15 years) in regional Victoria, Australia. The program included a school-based physical education (PE) component that uniquely incorporated student-centered teaching and behavioral skill development. The school component was conceptually and practically linked to a community component that emphasized appropriate structures for participation. The program was informed by ethnographic fieldwork to understand the contextual factors that affect girls' participation in PA. A collaborative intervention design was undertaken to align with PE curriculum and coaching and instructional approaches in community PA settings. The theoretical framework for the intervention was the socioecological model that was underpinned by both individual-level (social cognitive theory) and organizational-level (building organizational/community capacity) strategies. The program model provides an innovative conceptual framework for linking school PE with community sport and recreation and may benefit other PA programs seeking to engage adolescent girls. The objective of this article is to describe program development and the unique theoretical framework and curriculum approaches.
- Description: The engagement of adolescent girls in physical activity (PA) is a persistent challenge. School-based PA programs have often met with little success because of the lack of linkages between school and community PA settings. The Triple G program aimed to improve PA levels of secondary school girls (12-15 years) in regional Victoria, Australia. The program included a school-based physical education (PE) component that uniquely incorporated student-centered teaching and behavioral skill development. The school component was conceptually and practically linked to a community component that emphasized appropriate structures for participation. The program was informed by ethnographic fieldwork to understand the contextual factors that affect girls' participation in PA. A collaborative intervention design was undertaken to align with PE curriculum and coaching and instructional approaches in community PA settings. The theoretical framework for the intervention was the socioecological model that was underpinned by both individual-level (social cognitive theory) and organizational-level (building organizational/community capacity) strategies. The program model provides an innovative conceptual framework for linking school PE with community sport and recreation and may benefit other PA programs seeking to engage adolescent girls. The objective of this article is to describe program development and the unique theoretical framework and curriculum approaches. © 2012 Society for Public Health Education.
The influence of a Healthy Welcoming Environment on participation in club sport by adolescent girls : A longitudinal study
- Casey, Meghan, Eime, Rochelle, Harvey, Jack, Sawyer, Neroli, Craike, Melinda, Symons, Caroline, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Sawyer, Neroli , Craike, Melinda , Symons, Caroline , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation Vol. 9, no. 1 (2017), p. 1-9
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- Description: Background: This study investigated the perceived influence of a Healthy Welcoming Environment (HWE) on participation in sports clubs among adolescent girls, and how these perceptions changed longitudinally. HWE was defined in terms of a set of health promotion policies advocated by a health promotion foundation as the basis of sport club health promotion practice to promote structural reform in state sporting organisations and their affiliated associations and clubs. These included sports injury prevention, smoke-free, responsible serving of alcohol, sun protection, healthy eating, and welcoming and inclusive environments. Methods: Year 7 and 11 female students from metropolitan (n = 17) and non-metropolitan secondary schools (n = 14) in Australia were invited to participate in three annual surveys. These surveys collected information about current or past membership of a sports club and the influence of HWEs on their decision to participate (or not) in a sports club. Results: Year 7 (n = 328; 74.5%) and Year 11 (n = 112; 25.5%) female students completed all three waves (19.6% response rate; 82.7 and 74.0% retention rate). Most agreed that characteristics of HWEs were a positive influence on their participation in sports clubs, except those relating to alcohol and Sunsmart. Welcoming factors had consistent high agreement among respondents. Alcohol and friendliness factors of the club were regarded as being positively influential by higher percentages of non-metropolitan than metropolitan respondents. Conclusions: Welcoming factors were the most positive influences on decisions to participate in sports clubs. These factors may be important in reducing barriers to sport participation. Strategies supporting the social environment within sports clubs should be prioritised. © 2017 The Author(s).
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Sawyer, Neroli , Craike, Melinda , Symons, Caroline , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation Vol. 9, no. 1 (2017), p. 1-9
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: This study investigated the perceived influence of a Healthy Welcoming Environment (HWE) on participation in sports clubs among adolescent girls, and how these perceptions changed longitudinally. HWE was defined in terms of a set of health promotion policies advocated by a health promotion foundation as the basis of sport club health promotion practice to promote structural reform in state sporting organisations and their affiliated associations and clubs. These included sports injury prevention, smoke-free, responsible serving of alcohol, sun protection, healthy eating, and welcoming and inclusive environments. Methods: Year 7 and 11 female students from metropolitan (n = 17) and non-metropolitan secondary schools (n = 14) in Australia were invited to participate in three annual surveys. These surveys collected information about current or past membership of a sports club and the influence of HWEs on their decision to participate (or not) in a sports club. Results: Year 7 (n = 328; 74.5%) and Year 11 (n = 112; 25.5%) female students completed all three waves (19.6% response rate; 82.7 and 74.0% retention rate). Most agreed that characteristics of HWEs were a positive influence on their participation in sports clubs, except those relating to alcohol and Sunsmart. Welcoming factors had consistent high agreement among respondents. Alcohol and friendliness factors of the club were regarded as being positively influential by higher percentages of non-metropolitan than metropolitan respondents. Conclusions: Welcoming factors were the most positive influences on decisions to participate in sports clubs. These factors may be important in reducing barriers to sport participation. Strategies supporting the social environment within sports clubs should be prioritised. © 2017 The Author(s).
Integrating public health and sport management : Sport participation trends 2001-2010
- Eime, Rochelle, Sawyer, Neroli, Harvey, Jack, Casey, Meghan, Westerbeek, Hans, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Sawyer, Neroli , Harvey, Jack , Casey, Meghan , Westerbeek, Hans , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Sport Management Review Vol. 18, no. 2 (2015), p. 207-217
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- Description: In order to inform strategies to increase levels of physical activity (PA) for a healthier society, it is important to understand participation trends in leisure-time physical activity (LTPA). Little is known about the context of LTPA participation, particularly from the perspective of "sport and recreation" (S&R) categories such as organised and club-based activities. The primary aim of this study is to contribute to the sport management literature by specifically examining PA participation levels and trends in Australia over a decade, for those aged 15 years and older, through the lens of S&R. This paper also discusses the potential synergy between the public health and sport management domains with regard to LTPA/S&R. The Australian Sports Commission provided data from the Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS), a population survey conducted quarterly from 2001 to 2010 by computer-assisted telephone interview. Participation in LTPA was analysed by year, gender and age, in three hierarchically related categories: (1) any LTPA participation, (2) participation in an organised context, and (3) organised participation in a club. Participation rates in any LTPA increased significantly over the decade. However, this was not matched by increases in organised and/or club participation, which largely remained steady over the 10-year period. Much of the organised participation was within a club setting, and participation in this context is more likely among males than females. There is some evidence that the overall level of LTPA is increasing, which is positive for health, but there was generally no increase in club-based participation, resulting in sport contributing relatively less to overall population LTPA. However, the depth of information available from population surveys regarding club-based LTPA is insufficient to draw definitive conclusions, or make important strategic decisions about sport and health policy. There is a critical need for more comprehensive sport participation data to provide the evidence for improved programme and policy development. An avenue for this to occur may be through the integration of participation data from peak sport organisations. (C) 2014 Sport Management Association of Australia and New Zealand. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Sawyer, Neroli , Harvey, Jack , Casey, Meghan , Westerbeek, Hans , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Sport Management Review Vol. 18, no. 2 (2015), p. 207-217
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: In order to inform strategies to increase levels of physical activity (PA) for a healthier society, it is important to understand participation trends in leisure-time physical activity (LTPA). Little is known about the context of LTPA participation, particularly from the perspective of "sport and recreation" (S&R) categories such as organised and club-based activities. The primary aim of this study is to contribute to the sport management literature by specifically examining PA participation levels and trends in Australia over a decade, for those aged 15 years and older, through the lens of S&R. This paper also discusses the potential synergy between the public health and sport management domains with regard to LTPA/S&R. The Australian Sports Commission provided data from the Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS), a population survey conducted quarterly from 2001 to 2010 by computer-assisted telephone interview. Participation in LTPA was analysed by year, gender and age, in three hierarchically related categories: (1) any LTPA participation, (2) participation in an organised context, and (3) organised participation in a club. Participation rates in any LTPA increased significantly over the decade. However, this was not matched by increases in organised and/or club participation, which largely remained steady over the 10-year period. Much of the organised participation was within a club setting, and participation in this context is more likely among males than females. There is some evidence that the overall level of LTPA is increasing, which is positive for health, but there was generally no increase in club-based participation, resulting in sport contributing relatively less to overall population LTPA. However, the depth of information available from population surveys regarding club-based LTPA is insufficient to draw definitive conclusions, or make important strategic decisions about sport and health policy. There is a critical need for more comprehensive sport participation data to provide the evidence for improved programme and policy development. An avenue for this to occur may be through the integration of participation data from peak sport organisations. (C) 2014 Sport Management Association of Australia and New Zealand. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Using a socioecological approach to examine participation in sport and physical activity among rural adolescent girls
- Casey, Meghan, Eime, Rochelle, Payne, Warren, Harvey, Jack
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren , Harvey, Jack
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Qualitative Health Research Vol. 19, no. 7 (2009), p. 881-893
- Full Text:
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- Description: Adolescence is a critical time for developing lifelong healthy behaviors, including active lifestyles. Participation in sport and physical activity, however, declines during adolescence, and few studies have comprehensively identified why, particularly among rural girls. This article identifies a range of independent and interacting factors that influence sport and physical activity participation of rural adolescent girls. The socioecological model of health was used to guide four focus group discussions with Grade 7 girls (n = 34). The results showed that adolescent girls were positively influenced when sports or physical activities were fun, when they involved being with friends, and when they were supported by families and teachers through role modeling and positive feedback. A range of intrapersonal and organizational factors affected perceived self-competence, particularly the coeducational nature of school physical education classes and peer teasing, which supported social comparisons of skill level. In promoting sport and physical activity to rural adolescent girls, focus must be directed on developmentally appropriate activities that are fun, offering opportunities for single-sex classes, and generating cultural changes that encourage noncompetitive and self-referencing activities. © 2009 The Author(s).
- Description: 2003008179
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren , Harvey, Jack
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Qualitative Health Research Vol. 19, no. 7 (2009), p. 881-893
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Adolescence is a critical time for developing lifelong healthy behaviors, including active lifestyles. Participation in sport and physical activity, however, declines during adolescence, and few studies have comprehensively identified why, particularly among rural girls. This article identifies a range of independent and interacting factors that influence sport and physical activity participation of rural adolescent girls. The socioecological model of health was used to guide four focus group discussions with Grade 7 girls (n = 34). The results showed that adolescent girls were positively influenced when sports or physical activities were fun, when they involved being with friends, and when they were supported by families and teachers through role modeling and positive feedback. A range of intrapersonal and organizational factors affected perceived self-competence, particularly the coeducational nature of school physical education classes and peer teasing, which supported social comparisons of skill level. In promoting sport and physical activity to rural adolescent girls, focus must be directed on developmentally appropriate activities that are fun, offering opportunities for single-sex classes, and generating cultural changes that encourage noncompetitive and self-referencing activities. © 2009 The Author(s).
- Description: 2003008179
Socioecological factors potentially associated with participation in physical activity and sport : A longitudinal study of adolescent girls
- Eime, Rochelle, Casey, Meghan, Harvey, Jack, Sawyer, Neroli, Symons, Caroline, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack , Sawyer, Neroli , Symons, Caroline , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 18, no. 6 (2015), p. 684-690
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- Description: Objectives: Many adolescents are not physically active enough to receive associated health benefits. Furthermore, participation in physical activity generally declines during adolescence, and to a greater degree for females. Longitudinal research is required to better understand the determinants of change in physical activity by adolescent females to inform physical activity-related policy and practice. This study explored patterns of change in socioecological factors hypothesised to be associated with physical activity and sport, across the adolescent period for females. Methods: This longitudinal study employed three annual surveys of females from metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas recruited in Year 7 (n=328) and Year 11 (n=112). Self-report measures included questions regarding general barriers to participation, as well as factors relating to the socioecological domains. Results: The barriers where significant changes within or differences between cohorts were observed were mostly intrapersonal (lack of energy, lack of time due to other leisure activities). Lack of time was more prevalent in the Year 11 cohort than in the Year 7 cohort. Perceived importance of life priorities mainly related to education and study and more so for the Year 11 cohort. Perceived competence declined for the Year 7 cohort. Support from family and peers trended downwards in both cohorts, whereas access to facilities increased both within and between cohorts. Conclusions: Significant patterns of change in the determinants of physical activity participation were observed across the adolescent period. It is important to consider flexible structure and scheduling of physical activity and strategies to develop competency in childhood and early adolescence. (C) 2014 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack , Sawyer, Neroli , Symons, Caroline , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 18, no. 6 (2015), p. 684-690
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- Description: Objectives: Many adolescents are not physically active enough to receive associated health benefits. Furthermore, participation in physical activity generally declines during adolescence, and to a greater degree for females. Longitudinal research is required to better understand the determinants of change in physical activity by adolescent females to inform physical activity-related policy and practice. This study explored patterns of change in socioecological factors hypothesised to be associated with physical activity and sport, across the adolescent period for females. Methods: This longitudinal study employed three annual surveys of females from metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas recruited in Year 7 (n=328) and Year 11 (n=112). Self-report measures included questions regarding general barriers to participation, as well as factors relating to the socioecological domains. Results: The barriers where significant changes within or differences between cohorts were observed were mostly intrapersonal (lack of energy, lack of time due to other leisure activities). Lack of time was more prevalent in the Year 11 cohort than in the Year 7 cohort. Perceived importance of life priorities mainly related to education and study and more so for the Year 11 cohort. Perceived competence declined for the Year 7 cohort. Support from family and peers trended downwards in both cohorts, whereas access to facilities increased both within and between cohorts. Conclusions: Significant patterns of change in the determinants of physical activity participation were observed across the adolescent period. It is important to consider flexible structure and scheduling of physical activity and strategies to develop competency in childhood and early adolescence. (C) 2014 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
- Casey, Meghan, Harvey, Jack, Telford, Amanda, Eime, Rochelle, Mooney, Amanda, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack , Telford, Amanda , Eime, Rochelle , Mooney, Amanda , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 19, no. 11 (2016), p. 931-935
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/LP0990206
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- Description: Objectives: To describe patterns of time use among regional and rural adolescent girls and compare identified clusters with respect to correlates of physical activity (PA) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: Data were from Year 7-9 adolescent girls (aged 12-15 years) from 16 schools involved in a cluster-randomised trial in regional and rural Victoria, Australia (n = 494). Time use data were collected using 24-h Previous Day Physical Activity Recall (PDPAR-24) questionnaire, collapsed into 17 categories of time use. Differences between time use clusters with regard to demographics, correlates of PA and HRQoL measured using PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales, were investigated. Results: Two time use clusters were identified and were associated with correlates of PA and HRQoL. Girls who spent significantly more time in teams sports, non-team sports, school classes, watching TV and sleeping had higher levels of positively aligned PA correlates (e.g. self-efficacy, perceived sports competence) and HRQoL than girls characterised with high levels of computer use and video gaming. Conclusions: These findings highlight how different activity patterns of regional and rural girls affect HRQoL and can inform future intervention strategies to improve PA levels and HRQoL. Clusters characterised by low levels of PA and high computer use and video gaming require targeted interventions to address barriers to their participation. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Sports Medicine Australia.
- Eime, Rochelle, Payne, Warren, Casey, Meghan, Harvey, Jack
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren , Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack
- Date: 2010
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Health Education Research Vol. 25, no. 2 (2010), p. 282–293
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- Description: Physical activity (PA) is important for lifelong health; however, participation is lower in rural compared with metropolitan areas and declines during adolescence, particularly for girls. It is likely that this decline is related to the number of life transitions that occur during adolescence. This qualitative study examined the views of active rural living girls regarding the factors affecting their sport and PA participation, using the socioecological model. Twenty-seven girls aged 16-17 from four schools participated in semi-structured focus group discussions. Content and thematic analysis was conducted from verbatim transcripts using NVivo. The girls enjoyed involvement in community club sport with friends and they reported living in communities where participation in sport was a major form of social interaction. However, the desire to succeed educationally was a critical factor affecting their participation in sport and PA and influenced their movement from structured club sport to more flexible, but socially isolated individual activities. It is recommended that future longitudinal research should track rural living adolescent females as they complete secondary school, in order to better understand the influence of educational priorities upon sport and PA participation and to identify practical strategies for both schools and community organizations to foster continuing participation throughout this crucial period of life transition.
- Description: 2003006479
Skill based modified sports programs for younger participants : The risk of boredom and drop out
- Eime, Rochelle, Payne, Warren, Casey, Meghan
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren , Casey, Meghan
- Date: 2005
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 8, no. 4 Supplement (2005), p. 79
- Full Text: false
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- Description: Sport in Australia has recognised that children are not 'little adults'. Initially, responses included modifications to: equipment; playing surface size; some rules. In recent years many sports have developed structured, skill-based, age specific developmental programs for younger participants. The aim of this study is to investigate why participants become involved, and to find out what they enjoy most and least about these programs. Program coordinators/coaches and parents of participants (5-7 years) of two modified sports programs were interviewed. Questions included thoughts about: the program structure and resources; why participants became involved; what the participant likes/dislikes most; how the program could be improved. Behavioural theories are utilised in the discussion of these combined program results. Common themes were found between the thoughts of the program participants and "drop outs";. A main finding was that children join these sports programs to have fun, and when it ceases to become fun they get bored. Participant enjoyment was associated with game and match like activities. Many program coordinators reported altering the program structure to include more game and match like activities. The repetition of the program over two years for the participant was also a common barrier reported. In conclusion, it is recommended that sports programs for young participants are age specific and that they are modified to the full adult version. However, modify the programs to suit the needs and the desires of the children or face high drop out rates.
- Description: 2003006003
- Casey, Meghan, Harvey, Jack, Payne, Warren, Eime, Rochelle
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack , Payne, Warren , Eime, Rochelle
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Paper presented at 2009 Australia Conference of Science and Medicine in Sport, Seventh National Physical Activity Conference, Sixth National Sports Injury Prevention Conference, Be Active '09, Brisbane, Queensland : 14th-17th October 2009
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- Description: Understanding organisational capacity is crucial for addressing how organisations can develop in order to contribute to health promotion objectives and facilitate the implementation of health promotion activities within their settings. This study explored the capacity of Sport Governing Organisations (SGOs) to participate in population-focused health promotion activities. Participants from SGOs in the Australian state of Victoria were invited to complete a Health Promotion and Sport Assessment Tool (HP-SAT) which included items from capacity building checklists (strength of a coalition, capacity of an organisation to tackle health issues, and quality of planning including strategic and operational planning for health promotion) and a partnership analysis tool. Participants completed the HP-SAT in two phases—first to identify their SGO's current capacity to implement health promotion activities; and second a reflection of their SGO's capacity five years previously, prior to funding from a health promotion body. For each substantive area in the HP-SAT (e.g., capacity to address health issues) a composite score was calculated by summing the numerically coded responses to each item pertaining to the particular area. The scores represented the capacity to implement health promotion activities, and were expressed on a scale of 0–100. Paired samples t-tests were used to test for differences in the capacity scores between the two time points. The mean scores for the six capacity and partnership areas ranged from 39.1 to 61.5 at the retrospective survey and significantly increased to 56.9–78.2 for the current survey (p < 0.05 for all six areas). Scores for operational planning for health promotion and SGO collaboration activities increased the most, by 27.9 and 19.4 percentage points, respectively. Strategic planning for health promotion scored the lowest for the current survey. This presentation will discuss how to build capacity within the sport sector to facilitate the implementation of health promotion activities and to engage sport settings in health promotion activities. In particular, it will focus on how to promote health by creating health-promoting environments and/or increase physical activity levels through sport participation.
Linking secondary school physical education with community sport and recreation for girls: A process evaluation
- Casey, Meghan, Telford, Amanda, Mooney, Amanda, Harvey, Jack, Eime, Rochelle, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Telford, Amanda , Mooney, Amanda , Harvey, Jack , Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 14, no. 1039 (2014), p. 1-14
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- Description: Background: The purpose of this study was to undertake a process evaluation to examine the reach, adoption and implementation of a school-community linked physical activity (PA) program for girls aged 12 - 15 years (School Years 7 - 9) using the RE-AIM framework. Methods. Various approaches were used to assess 'reach', 'adoption' and implementation: (a) a school environment survey of intervention schools (n = 6); (b) teacher feedback regarding the professional development component (91.1% response rate) and lesson implementation (60.8% response rate); and (c) post-intervention focus group interviews with physical education (PE) teachers (n = 29), students (n = 125), coaches (n = 13) and instructors (n = 8) regarding program experiences. Results: Reach and Adoption: Seven schools (n = 1491 Year 7-9 female student enrolment; 70% adoption rate), five tennis clubs, eight football clubs and five leisure centres participated in the program during 2011. Implementation: Program design and professional development opportunities (training, resource manual and opportunities to work with coaches and instructors during PE classes) supported implementation and student engagement in PA. However, there was a lack of individual and organisational readiness to adopt program principles. For some deliverers there were deeply embedded ideologies that were not aligned with the Game Sense teaching approach upon which the program was based. Further, cognitive components of the program such as self-management were not widely adopted as other components of the program tended to be prioritised. Conclusion: The program design and resources supported the success of the program, however, some aspects were not implemented as intended, which may have affected the likelihood of achieving further positive outcomes. Barriers to program implementation were identified and should be considered when designing school-community linked interventions. In particular, future programs should seek to assess and adjust for organizational readiness within the study design. For example, shared commitment and abilities of program deliverers to implement the program needs to be determined to support program implementation. Trial registration. ACTRN12614000446662. April 30th 2014.
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Telford, Amanda , Mooney, Amanda , Harvey, Jack , Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 14, no. 1039 (2014), p. 1-14
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- Description: Background: The purpose of this study was to undertake a process evaluation to examine the reach, adoption and implementation of a school-community linked physical activity (PA) program for girls aged 12 - 15 years (School Years 7 - 9) using the RE-AIM framework. Methods. Various approaches were used to assess 'reach', 'adoption' and implementation: (a) a school environment survey of intervention schools (n = 6); (b) teacher feedback regarding the professional development component (91.1% response rate) and lesson implementation (60.8% response rate); and (c) post-intervention focus group interviews with physical education (PE) teachers (n = 29), students (n = 125), coaches (n = 13) and instructors (n = 8) regarding program experiences. Results: Reach and Adoption: Seven schools (n = 1491 Year 7-9 female student enrolment; 70% adoption rate), five tennis clubs, eight football clubs and five leisure centres participated in the program during 2011. Implementation: Program design and professional development opportunities (training, resource manual and opportunities to work with coaches and instructors during PE classes) supported implementation and student engagement in PA. However, there was a lack of individual and organisational readiness to adopt program principles. For some deliverers there were deeply embedded ideologies that were not aligned with the Game Sense teaching approach upon which the program was based. Further, cognitive components of the program such as self-management were not widely adopted as other components of the program tended to be prioritised. Conclusion: The program design and resources supported the success of the program, however, some aspects were not implemented as intended, which may have affected the likelihood of achieving further positive outcomes. Barriers to program implementation were identified and should be considered when designing school-community linked interventions. In particular, future programs should seek to assess and adjust for organizational readiness within the study design. For example, shared commitment and abilities of program deliverers to implement the program needs to be determined to support program implementation. Trial registration. ACTRN12614000446662. April 30th 2014.
Transferring organisational partnerships to physical activity participation : What works and why
- Payne, Warren, Casey, Meghan, Eime, Rochelle, Brown, Sue, Rathbun, K.
- Authors: Payne, Warren , Casey, Meghan , Eime, Rochelle , Brown, Sue , Rathbun, K.
- Date: 2006
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Paper presented at ASICS Conference of Science and Medicine in Sport 2006, Fiji : 19th-21st October 2006
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- Description: The purpose of this research was to explore and understand the nature of organisational partnerships and how they may best be able to facilitate sustainable participation in physical activity. This research was undertaken as part of the evaluation of the VicHealth Partnerships in Community Sport and Active Recreation (PICSAR) Scheme during 2004–2006. Eight programs were explored in depth using a range of interview and survey techniques. Two of these programs will be presented using a case study approach in order to explore the factors affecting the development of organisational partnerships and the subsequent engagement of individuals in physical activity. These cases have been developed using the Capacity Building Framework of the NSW Health Department (2001) and the VicHealth Capacity Building Continuum (2005). The cases highlight that organisational partnerships that have been formed expediently to attract grant funding and focus largely upon the delivery of individual programs are less successful in providing sustained physical activity options than those that operate at both the individual and system (organisational) level. It is recommended that funding agencies who promote partnership development emphasise partnership development prior to program funds being released and the establishment of programs that are embedded within an organisation's core business.
- Description: 2003003134
What is the best way to develop healthy and welcoming sports clubs?
- Payne, Warren, Eime, Rochelle, Casey, Meghan, Donaldson, Alex
- Authors: Payne, Warren , Eime, Rochelle , Casey, Meghan , Donaldson, Alex
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Paper presented at 2009 Australia Conference of Science and Medicine in Sport, Seventh National Physical Activity Conference, Sixth National Sports Injury Prevention Conference, Be Active '09, Brisbane, Queensland : 14th-17th October 2009
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- Description: Introduction: Optimizing sporting organisations’ capacity to promote health requires development and implementation of appropriate policies and practices. One part of public health policy development involves establishing and enforcing rules and regulations via either externally enforced regulation (Regulatory Approach: RA) or by providing a broad regulatory framework to empower individuals and organisations to pro-actively identify and address contextually relevant issues through member participation (Self-assessment Approach: SA). SA is generally preferred in health promotion to facilitate organizational change, sustainability and ownership. Recently health promotion agencies have funded Sports Governing Organisations (SGOs) to develop policies and practices to promote the adoption of healthy and welcoming environments (HWEs) in affiliated clubs, thereby enhancing active participation and membership. The purpose of this study was to determine which of the two approaches should be used when implementing policy to promote HWEs in clubs. Methodology: Part A: Two focus groups were held, each with representatives of four SGOs. Part B: In-depth exploration involving interviews with SGO HWE program coordinators and representatives of individual community clubs (RA: n = 7, SA: n = 12) in two sports, one using RA and one SA. Results/conclusions: Part A revealed four SGOs adopted SA, two adopted RA, and two had no formal program. With the SA, there was a conscious effort by SGOs not to overload the community clubs given the limited capacity of club volunteers. The approach focused on providing best practice examples and tools to enable clubs to identify their own needs and priorities. The RA was considered very formal and directed, and usually implemented in a staged way as part of a comprehensive club development program. One SGO believed that the RA made it easier for clubs to better understand the HWE program. Part B revealed that both approaches had preferred elements. The club representatives liked the RA as it provided clear guidelines and expectations. It also assisted in standardising policies and practices and therefore assisted clubs to sustain effective management systems. The SA required that clubs had the capacity to identify their needs and priorities through the use of SGO-provided resources. Clubs reportedly enjoyed identifying their own priorities and continually developing within their own capacities and time frames. This approach favoured the development of HWE practices rather than policies. In contrast to accepted health promotion approaches, RA and SA were equally endorsed by their recipients. These findings will be discussed in relation to models of organisational transformation and capacity building.
- Casey, Meghan, Eime, Rochelle, Ball, Kylie, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Eime, Rochelle , Ball, Kylie , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Annals of Leisure Research Vol. 14, no. 1 (2011), p. 1-21
- Full Text: false
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- Description: 2002009337
- Eime, Rochelle, Casey, Meghan, Harvey, Jack, Charity, Melanie, Young, Janet, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Young, Janet , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-7
- Full Text: false
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- Description: Background: Many children are not physically active enough for a health benefit. One avenue of physical activity is modified sport programs, designed as an introduction to sport for young children. This longitudinal study identified trends in participation among children aged 4-12 years. Outcomes included continuation in the modified sports program, withdrawal from the program or transition to club sport competition. Methods: De-identified data on participant membership registrations in three popular sports in the Australian state of Victoria were obtained from each sport's state governing body over a 4-year period (2009-2012 for Sport A and 2010-2013 for Sports B and C). From the membership registrations, those who were enrolled in a modified sports program in the first year were tracked over the subsequent three years and classified as one of: transition (member transitioned from a modified sport program to a club competition); continue (member continued participation in a modified sport program; or withdraw (member discontinued a modified program and did not transition to club competition). Results: Many modified sports participants were very young, especially males aged 4-6 years. More children withdrew from their modified sport program rather than transitioning. There were age differences between when boys and girls started, withdrew and transitioned from the modified sports programs. Conclusions: If we can retain children in sport it is likely to be beneficial for their health. This study highlights considerations for the development and implementation of sport policies and programming to ensure lifelong participation is encouraged for both males and females. © 2015 Eime et al.