Collective identities of VSCs: influencing factors and impact

This paper explores the positive effects and factors that shape collective identities within voluntary sport clubs (VSCs). As the role and development of collective identities in VSCs remain poorly understood, Classic Institutional Theory is combined with Social Identity Theory to identify the micro- and organisational-level factors that shape these identities. A multiple case study is performed among four Dutch voluntary tennis clubs. Results show significant positive relationships between members’ level of organisational identification and three indices of member involvement (loyalty, volunteering and positive WOM). Given that VSCs rely heavily on member involvement for their functioning, this suggests that both providing club goods that align with members’ interests and fostering a collective identity are crucial for their long-term survival. Furthermore, to understand how collective identities are fostered, this study examined which social groups are key in shaping collective identities within VSCs and identifies the organisational factors that trigger organisational identification processes. Results show that embeddedness in social relationships and various social groups within VSCs, shape collective identities and spur organisational identification among members. Governmental policy aimed at strengthening VSCs should therefore focus on imbuing VSCs with identity cues and stimulating the formation of social relationships between members.