Solveiga Zaprudskaja
Managing human resources in the Lithuanian Triathlon Federation
Lithuanian triathlon federation is a small sport organization. It is representative body of triathlon sport activity and has been traditionally managed by sport enthusiasts with a passion for the sport, wherein measures of success are related to on-field success and participant numbers rather than to operational effectiveness. Limited human and financial resources, reliance on volunteers, and a long tradition of informal planning, control and administrative systems – these are factors meaning challenges of LTF.
In the HR domain, it has been common to argue that volunteers need to be managed differently because they are more likely than paid employees to leave an organisation abruptly if they become dissatisfied. The main reason for this, it has been argued, is the fact that they do not have to find another job before deciding to leave.
Traditionally, sport organisations have relied on the volunteer’s motivation and commitment to sport to take precedence over catering for the HR requirements of an individual volunteer.
Lithuanian triathlon federation had never had a formalized HR strategy and tend to use more informal human resource activities. So the purpose of this case study is to find the right ways for LTF would have minimal HR practices for paid staff and volunteers. Even if
Organising major sport event in the Lithuanian Triathlon Federation
Lithuanian triathlon federation is a representative body of triathlon sport activity and has been traditionally managed by sport enthusiasts with a passion for the sport, wherein measures of success are related to on-field success and participant numbers rather than to operational effectiveness. Limited human and financial resources, reliance on volunteers and etc. don’t stop or limit LTF activities as sport event organizers.
A key element to have a wonderful event is to have a “perfect venue”, able to host athletes, spectators, to showcase the beauty of the city… and for that is really important to work together with all the stakeholders.
Athletes are the most important partners, and the main client group of the races, and it was really helpful to understand the needs, likes and dislikes of athletes . “Athletes want a thrilling scenario, with crowds on the streets. They love to feel welcome to cities, and really willing to have a full experience. Is not all about prize money, there are some other ways of them getting revenues and maximizing their commercial possibilities, so those are also factors to be taking into account when planning racing. Athletes love to compete, and they are willing to do so and to showcase great performances, which is great for all”.
