Master Thesis in Sport: Studying social networks in informal sporting groups: Need an opinion.

[Bensport]

Hi all, 

I am completing my masters remotely and all that's left to do is complete a preliminary thesis course. I am wanting to study informal sporting groups. Informal sports participation is on the rise, while in some countries formalised sport participation is plateauing and decreasing. Of interest is "how groups are formed" using social capital and potentially social network analysis. I am thinking of using a scale to measure vertical and horizontal capital and also the direction of the network tie. Also looking at ´connectors´ those people who draw others in and help maintain relationships. The latter would require the identification of connectors and then further analysis. 

Another direction would be to do "action research", and compare different ways of building sport groups. For example, asking people at a park to participate in a game of something, using flyers and display boards and comparing with online advertising (i.e. slightly more formalised). I suppose I could then draw a network of ties, how people have found out about the groups, their interest, background etc but also a social network analysis using online networks. 

Any advice or comments are appreciated!

Regards, 

Ben

[hellenb451]

Hi Ben,

Your topic on informal sports groups is very timely and insightful! Here are some ideas to refine your approach:

1. Social Capital and Network Analysis: Measuring both vertical (hierarchical) and horizontal (peer) social capital alongside social network analysis (SNA) would reveal key relationship patterns. Identifying “connectors” could highlight individuals who play central roles in group cohesion, and analyzing tie directions can uncover influence dynamics.

2. Action Research: Comparing recruitment methods (e.g., informal invites at parks vs. flyers/ads) could show which approach builds stronger ties or attracts more engagement. Surveying participants on how they found the group, plus their motivations, could add depth to your SNA findings.

3. Data Collection and Ethics: Surveys or interviews about participants’ relationships and motivations, combined with SNA, would provide a well-rounded analysis. Ensure clear consent, especially in public or online settings.

4. Theoretical Frameworks: Look into social identity theory or Granovetter’s weak tie theory to add depth to your analysis on why people are drawn to or remain in informal sports groups.

How far have you gone with it right now?