Nature and challenges of sports job training during the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics: listening to the lived experiences of sports managers

Abstract

This study explores the nature and challenges of sport management training during the PyeongChang Winter Olympics through the lived experiences of sports managers. Using a qualitative case study, eight sports managers involved in the 2018 PyeongChang Olympic Games (PCOG) were purposely selected and interviewed as the research participants. Their lived experiences address the gap between the external and internal realities of PCOG within human resource management. Specifically, they point to a lack of (1) sufficient pre-training, (2) a standardized program, (3) a training program for specialists, and (4) practical experience in sport management training. Additionally, their shared experiences indicate two challenges pertaining to the necessity of (1) a standardized program and (2) general and professional programs, which must be resolved for sustainable sport management training in all sport organizations.