"On the Road to Change"

Submitted by president on Sun, 10/02/2011 - 18:36

Traveling the world in the course of my work, everywhere I go I see change. Here are some emerging trends.

  • Technology in sport business is moving from an emphasis on performance and equipment to fan enjoyment—and spending. 
  • Globally, there is an increase in participation in table tennis, Ultimate Frisbee, and archery; skateboarding and boxing are on the decline. 
  • The trend in fitness is toward more intensive workouts, and a general integration of programs on health and wellness. 

Some people (and sport organizations) are embracing change and making appropriate adjustments; some are not.

“Change is inevitable; progress is optional.” 

This insightful saying is an apt description of the fundamental challenge every sport leader faces today.  Things are always changing, but progress and improvement require definite steps and a dedication to excellence. Change is something that happens to us, but progress depends on the decisions and actions that we choose. Some things change and are completely out of our control.  We cannot dictate global economic conditions, cannot stop the effects of age on our bodies, and cannot control the winds and tides. But we can take action to manage our own financial resources, can pursue proper diet and exercise for health, and can set a course to whatever destination we seek.

I want my life to count, and I want to be someone that other lives can count on. This commitment perfectly illustrates the ethos of Global Sports Partners (GSP).   We are committed to excellence in our organization, and our pursuit is to bring improvement and inspiration to our clients across 65 countries.  Not just change, but progress. 

Progress and improvement are also appropriate themes for the revised GSP website that we launched this month (and you are now reading).  We hope that you find what you need here.  If not, then I invite you to meet with the President.  My office, phone line, and inbox are open to you.

I’m regularly “on the road” (hence, the title of this blog) . . .

  •  Coordinating with our representatives in 25+ countries
  •  Consulting for Olympic committees, sport federations, ministries, clubs, and schools
  •  Connecting with new clients and partners

Hope to see you again . . . “on the road.”

Steve DeVoss

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Recent Travels and comments:

CHINA.  World University Games.  It was great to be back in China, where we sent so many of our early GSP sports exchanges and competitive teams; a rare opportunity for me to use my bu hao (not good) Mandarin.

BRAZIL.   Productive interviews with several futebol coaches for placements with clubs, national teams, and academies in the Middle East and Asia.

Coming up:

IRAQ.   Always a challenge, but always rewarding.

USA.    I’ll be in the US Office and making presentations in Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Oregon.  I’ll also spend the Thanksgiving Holiday with my wife’s family, thanking God for His many blessings.