The North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) was established in 1985, pioneering the field of sport management. Prior to its formation, regional sport management associations had emerged, such as the European Association for Sport Management (EASM) in 1993 and the Sport Management Association of Australia and New Zealand (SMAANZ) in 1995. These associations recognized the need for collaboration and knowledge sharing, leading to the formation of the International Sport Management Alliance in 1999.
Key Facts
- Establishment of NASSM: NASSM was established in 1985.
- Regional Associations: Prior to the formation of NASSM, regional sport management associations were established, including the European Association for Sport Management (EASM) in 1993 and the Sport Management Association of Australia and New Zealand (SMAANZ) in 1995.
- International Sport Management Alliance: Discussions took place among NASSM, EASM, and SMAANZ regarding collaboration, leading to the establishment of the International Sport Management Alliance in 1999.
- Growth of Regional Associations: Other regional sport management associations were subsequently formed, including the Asian Association for Sport Management (AASM) in 2002, the Asociacion Latinoamericana de Gerencia Deportiva (ALGEDE) in 2009, and the African Sport Management Association (ASMA) in 2010.
- Movement to Establish a Global Sport Management Academy: With the addition of these regional associations, there was a push to establish a global sport management academy/organization. Initial discussions took place in 2010, and a working group was formed to explore the concept.
- Formation of World Association for Sport Management (WASM): In April 2011, a meeting was held in Taipei, Taiwan, where consensus was reached to officially establish a global sport management organization called the World Association for Sport Management (WASM).
The Expansion of Regional Sport Management Associations
The International Sport Management Alliance fostered the growth of regional sport management associations, resulting in the establishment of the Asian Association for Sport Management (AASM) in 2002, the Asociacion Latinoamericana de Gerencia Deportiva (ALGEDE) in 2009, and the African Sport Management Association (ASMA) in 2010. These associations aimed to promote sport management research, teaching, and professional development within their respective regions.
The Drive Towards a Global Sport Management Organization
With the proliferation of regional associations, the need for a global sport management organization became increasingly apparent. In 2010, discussions commenced to explore the feasibility of establishing a global academy or organization. A working group was formed, comprising representatives from the regional associations, to delve into the concept and its potential structure.
The Formation of the World Association for Sport Management (WASM)
In April 2011, a pivotal meeting was held in Taipei, Taiwan, attended by representatives from the six regional associations. During this meeting, consensus was reached to formally establish a global sport management organization named the World Association for Sport Management (WASM). The mission of WASM was to facilitate sport management research, teaching, and learning excellence, as well as professional practice, on a global scale.
Conclusion
The establishment of WASM marked a significant milestone in the evolution of sport management as a discipline. It brought together regional associations from around the world, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the advancement of sport management practices. WASM continues to play a vital role in promoting excellence in sport management education, research, and professional development, contributing to the growth and impact of the field globally.
References:
- “Evolution of WASM.” World Association for Sport Management, https://wasmorg.com/about/evolution-of-wasm/. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024.
- “MS 563 – North American Society for Sport Management.” Finding Aids. BGSU University Libraries, 11 June 2021, https://lib.bgsu.edu/finding_aids/items/show/928. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024.
FAQs
What was the primary reason for the formation of NASSM?
NASSM was formed to promote and advance the field of sport management through research, teaching, and professional development.
What factors contributed to the establishment of NASSM?
The growing recognition of sport management as a distinct field of study and the need for a professional organization to support and connect individuals working in the field were key factors in the establishment of NASSM.
What were the initial goals and objectives of NASSM?
NASSM’s initial goals included facilitating sport management research and teaching excellence, promoting professional development, and fostering collaboration among sport management professionals and organizations.
How did NASSM contribute to the development of sport management as a discipline?
NASSM played a crucial role in the development of sport management as a discipline by providing a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and professional development. It also helped to establish standards and best practices in sport management education and research.
What role did NASSM play in the formation of the World Association for Sport Management (WASM)?
NASSM was a founding member of WASM and played a key role in its establishment. NASSM’s experience and expertise in sport management contributed to the development of WASM’s mission and structure.
What are some of the key achievements of NASSM?
NASSM’s achievements include the publication of the Journal of Sport Management, the organization of annual conferences, the establishment of the NASSM Research Grant Program, and the development of educational resources and programs for sport management professionals.
How does NASSM continue to contribute to the field of sport management?
NASSM continues to contribute to the field of sport management by providing professional development opportunities, advocating for the advancement of the discipline, and supporting research and teaching excellence in sport management.
What are the benefits of being a member of NASSM?
Benefits of NASSM membership include access to the Journal of Sport Management, discounted registration for NASSM conferences, networking opportunities, and eligibility for NASSM awards and grants.