Abstract
This study investigates the determinants of voluntary and involuntary head coach turnovers using a large dataset of some 6,500 coach-game observations from Major League Soccer over 2004–2019. The duration analysis results show that team performance related to expected playoff qualification and performance expectations matter for both types of separations. Moreover, the findings reveal that coach reputation decreases dismissal probabilities, while coach age increases quit rates. The results of this study will be of particular interest to Major League Soccer team owners and managers as well as for business management outside the sports industry.
Highlights
As stated in various labor market studies, insufficient organizational performance is considered the most important determinant of top manager turnover (e.g., Fiordelisi & Ricci, 2014; Puffer & Weintrop, 1991; Weisbach, 1988)
This study investigates the determinants of head coach dismissals and quits in Major League Soccer (MLS) over 16 consecutive seasons using duration analysis
This paper analyzes the determinants of coach dismissals and quits in MLS throughout 16 consecutive seasons by comparing the results of different estimations
Summary
As stated in various labor market studies, insufficient organizational performance is considered the most important determinant of top manager turnover (e.g., Fiordelisi & Ricci, 2014; Puffer & Weintrop, 1991; Weisbach, 1988). For MLS coaches, the different schedule offers the possibility to leave the team in mid-season and immediately take up a job in a football club (e.g., in Europe) at the start of the new season’s preparation time (mainly in June or July). Examining the determinants of coach turnovers in MLS and comparing the findings to the results presented in the already existing literature on coach separations in European football is interesting and provides new knowledge about (potential) similarities and differences. The findings will be of particular interest to MLS officials and team owners They can be useful for business management out of the sports industry by providing insights into voluntary and involuntary managerial turnover decisions in a specific industry characterized by detailed and frequent data about managerial performance and its expectations
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