The Counter Offensive: Declining Volunteer Numbers
Common volunteer recruitment methods at grassroots sports clubs lead to high churn whereas integration and accountability will retain them.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi
The Counter Offensive is a series of pieces that analyses the common approach to dealing with issues, why they fail, and a more unorthodox approach with greater chance of success.
Situation
Grassroots sports clubs are experiencing a decline in volunteer numbers, impacting their ability to function effectively.
THE COMMON APPROACH
Concept of Operations (CONOPS): Most clubs attempt to address this issue by launching volunteer recruitment drives, often through social media, local advertisements, and community events, then treating the volunteers like an endangered species.
Centre of Gravity (CG): This approach relies heavily on the visibility and appeal of the club’s activities to attract new volunteers.
Targetable Critical Vulnerabilities (TCVs): The focus on attraction to replace leaving volunteers leads to a high churn rate. The TCVs are therefore
TCV 1: Burnout. Existing volunteers may feel overwhelmed, leading to high turnover.
TCV 2: Limited Reach. Recruitment efforts may not reach a diverse audience.
TCV 3: Short-term Focus. Recruitment drives often focus on immediate needs rather than long-term engagement.
THE COUNTER OFFENSIVE
CONOPS: Integrate the roles into the club’s operational structure, treating them as essential positions (not incumbents) with clear responsibilities and support systems.
CG: This strategy relies on professionalising volunteer roles, providing training, and ensuring volunteers feel like an integral part of the club’s operations.
Method: To enact the CONOPS, the club needs to leverage its operational structure to ensure the right people in the right roles – this may mean it is not a democratic process. The there needs to exist the following Decisive Events (DEs):
DE 1: Role Clarity. Define clear roles and responsibilities for volunteers, similar to paid positions.
DE 2: Training Programs. Offer regular training sessions to equip volunteers with the necessary skills.
DE 3: Support Systems. Establish support networks within the club to assist volunteers in their roles.
What success looks like
The Melbourne Cricket Club adopted this approach, resulting in a more structured and professional volunteer program. Volunteers received training and support, leading to increased satisfaction and retention rates. The club saw a 40% increase in volunteer numbers over three years. - https://www.jstor.org/stable/27928159
Are you ready to transform your sports club’s approach? Join the conversation and share your experiences with us! At Mission Command, we believe in empowering grassroots sports clubs to achieve their full potential. Contact us today at admin@missioncomd.com.au to learn how we can help your club thrive with innovative solutions and expert management. Together, let’s ensure every child has the opportunity to be involved in a sports team.