Evaluating The Impact of COVID-19 on The Management Systems of Ethiopian Sports Clubs: Regional Insights and Challenges

Abstract

The COVID -19 pandemic has created substantial challenges for sports clubs worldwide, including those in Ethiopia. This study investigates how the pandemic has influenced the management systems of sports clubs in Ethiopia, focusing on management functions. As per Koontz and O’Donnell’s management checklists. A mixed- methods approach was used, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis from 330 respondents, including athletes, coaches, managers, board members, and technical staff from sports clubs in Addis Ababa and the Tigray region from 4 sport disciplines and 20 clubs. Statistical analysis, including 5 Likert-scale measures and ANOVA, was used to examine differences in management effectiveness among clubs.

The key findings of the study included the significant disruption of the planning process, difficulties in coordinating team activities, and challenges in leadership and human resource management strategies in maintaining staff stability during the pandemic. The study found that strong manager- coach collaboration and stable employment conditions for coaches were critical for team performance during the pandemic, with correlation coefficients of 0.730 and 0.557, respectively. The study also found that control systems were the weakest link in sport club management during the pandemic, with an average of 2.91. This study emphasizes the critical roles of digital transformation, financial management, and leadership in navigating these challenges. The results suggest that Ethiopian sports clubs must strengthen their management systems, invest in digital resources, and prioritize financial sustainability to better prepare for future crises.