Development of Management Guidelines to Promote Rugby Clubs in Secondary Schools at Shandong Province, the People's Republic of China

Kunfeng Li; Pattarapol  Mahakhan; Preecha  Pongpeng

doi:10.60027/iarj.2026.e296255

Authors

Kunfeng Li Bangkokthonburi University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3935-6964
Pattarapol Mahakhan Bangkokthonburi University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0008-1355-8894
Preecha Pongpeng Bangkokthonburi University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0002-1230-5402

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.60027/iarj.2026.e296255

Keywords:

Management Guidelines, Rugby Clubs, Secondary Schools

Abstract

Background and Aims: Rugby has gained increasing attention in secondary schools across China; however, in Shandong Province, its development is constrained by inconsistent management practices, limited resources, and the absence of structured operational guidelines. Strengthening club management is essential for ensuring sustainable growth, student participation, and sport quality. This study aimed to develop comprehensive management guidelines to promote rugby clubs in secondary schools in Shandong Province, based on established management theories.

Methodology: A mixed-methods design was adopted. Quantitative data were collected from 256 respondents—81 teachers and 175 students—from ten secondary-school rugby clubs through a validated questionnaire (IOC = 0.89). Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with five experts and a focus group discussion with seven specialists, followed by final verification using the connoisseurship technique. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results: The current management situation was rated high in planning, organizing, and leading, but moderate in controlling. Based on the findings, 34 management guidelines were developed: 9 for planning, 9 for organizing, 9 for leading, and 7 for controlling. Experts confirmed that the guidelines are feasible, relevant, and suitable for strengthening rugby club operations in secondary schools.

Conclusion: The finalized guidelines provide a clear, evidence-based framework to support the sustainable development of rugby clubs in Shandong Province. These guidelines can also serve as a model for other regions seeking to improve school-sport program management.

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