Swiss youths and the storying of non-participation in organised sport: A narrative examination of two cases

Organised sport is reputed to have a number of positive outcomes for youth participants. Research suggests however, that during adolescence, many individuals discontinue participation. Much of the research examining youth participation and dropout has employed frameworks related to motivation. In this paper, an alternative approach based on tenets of narrative inquiry is adopted. Through semi-structured interviews, data was produced with adolescents aged 13-16 in North Western Switzerland. The stories of two non-participants are examined according to structure, underlying assumptions and the identities that are constructed during narration. The broader implications for practice are discussed. Specifically, it is argued that (1) listening to youths’ sporting stories can help providers better meet the needs of participants; and (2) providers should offer special assistance for individuals ceasing sporting involvement in order to facilitate continuation of physical activity.