The Effectiveness of Risk Management Plans in Recreational Sport Programs of Division I-A Universities

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between the existence of a risk management plan and reported participant injury rates and annual operating budgets in recreational sport programs at Division I-A colleges and universities. Surveys with self-addressed, stamped return envelope and a cover letter were sent to each identified recreational sport program director or coordinator at 114 NCAA members of Division I-A colleges and universities. A total of 72 respondents or 63.1% returned the questionnaire for the study. Descriptive statistics and χ2 tests were performed to describe and analyze the data and relationships among the variables. Based on the results of this study, a risk management plan in intramural sports programs is a kind of minimum investment to protect both recreational sport program suppliers and participants because it can reduce lawsuits and provide high levels of safety.