Measuring the Efficacy of a Club Sports New Participant Orientation

This study examines the impact of the University of Vermont Club Sports’ recently implemented new participant orientation. Using program evaluation theory and a survey instrument, this study measured the efficacy of the new program. A survey was designed and sent to all 312 participants with a response rate of 23%. Descriptive statistics from the instrument indicate strong efficacy for participants who completed the program with all outcome measures reporting moderate to considerable growth. T-tests and ANOVAs, in most instances, indicate similar efficacy of outcomes among different groups of respondents. However, statistically significant differences exist based on individual or team gender on three specific outcome measures. Results of this study suggest value in the implementation of the club sports new participant orientation while identifying groups where additional attention may be needed through adjustments to the curriculum or additional outreach strategies.