Sport participation can play a key role in older adults’ successful aging as it provides an enjoyable opportunity for leisure-time physical activity. Research focusing on the benefits of sport participation in later life and facilitators for involvement has been increasing in the past several years. Drawing on the socioecological model, this study investigated select socioecological factors that predict older adults’ sport participation from a holistic perspective. An online survey provided quantitative data from 1203 adults aged 50 and older across the United States. Results from logistic regression analyses showed that personal characteristics, individual behavior, environment/policy, and life course effects were significant predictors of sport participation in later life. The findings in this study enhance our understanding of factors related to older adults’ sport participation and are also of value to practitioners seeking to promote sport participation among older adults.
Community sport events are uniquely positioned to engage in social entrepreneurial activities. This engagement can help navigate challenges facing the event sector. Therefore, this study explored the social entrepreneurial activities in which community sport event managers engaged amidst COVID-19. Qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews with five event managers and 10 nonprofit managers involved in the Illinois Marathon in the United States. Findings showed that event managers engaged in social entrepreneurial activities through 1) leveraging a corporate partner to facilitate long-term relationships with local nonprofits, 2) delivering an impactful alternate event, and 3) hosting post-event banquets. These activities addressed social problems through 1) listening to and responding to immediate community needs, 2) raising awareness about social issues, and 3) shining a positive light on the community. Findings contribute to the literature on events and social entrepreneurship and provide implications for how event managers partake in effective social entrepreneurial activities.
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