Insurance, risk management and youth soccer academies : a Maltese case-study

Abstract

Our central thesis is whether Risk Management can be applied as part of a best practice management system throughout sport organizations. Our literature review reveals that the key risks faced by youth soccer and sports training in general, and the causes of legal liability. We analyse the results of an empirical study conducted across all 47 youth academies in Malta for the purpose of identifying the main risks faced. Interviews were also conducted with the official national sports organisation and an insurance broker who introduced the first (and only) such insurance policy targeted for youth soccer academies in Malta. Our findings indicate that injuries, liability risk and inadequate facilities are the key hazards of concern for youth academies. A framework is suggested to avoid and minimise the risks identified in our study. A key measure that minimizes most risks is coaches’ continuous professional development. In addition, insurance policies ought to offer the ability to transfer risk.