SPORT DEVELOPMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT: TOWARDS A RATIONALE AND TOOL

Against the background of evaluation and social impact research, this paper addresses the challenge of developing a rationale and methodology for assessing the impact of sport development programmes. Academics from different disciplines developed and refined a multi-dimensional impact assessment tool through a research process under the auspices of the Australia-South Africa Development Programme. This research was undertaken in the Northern Province and Eastern Cape where the 'sport-for-all' programme was fed through the schools with the teachers and children as main recipients. Focusing on the junior component of sport development posed unique challenges for data collecting. Investigating and determining the nature and scope of change or impact at different levels, the valueadded dimension of sport development is explored. Impact assessment reflects on the structures, resources, training, implementation, course material, sustainability and 'added value' for the national stakeholders, the community, social institutions and the individual. A research design, variables, core and individual themes are proposed to guide quantitative and qualitative research. the Sport Development Impact Assessment Tool, which was developed in a pre- and post-impact setting, is comprehensive and flexible. The process of refinement is discussed and guidelines are offered for the implementation in historically disadvantaged communities in South Africa.