Children’s Football Environment in Denmark: A Case Study From the Holistic Ecological Approach

This case study examines a children's football environment in Denmark through the lens of the Holistic Ecological Approach. The study's objectives were to (a) provide a holistic description of a football environment for children aged 9-12 and (b) explore the perceived factors that influence the success of the environment in facilitating positive experiences for children in sport. The study focused on the under-10 to under-12 teams within a Danish grassroots football club, comprising 184 players aged 9-12 years. Data collection methods included in-situ observations, interviews, and archival data. Holistic Ecological Approach-based working models were converted into empirical models to summarize the analysis. The findings reveal a well-functioning children's football environment characterized by educated coaching teams and parental involvement. The environment emphasizes development by ensuring equal opportunities for the enhancement of both athletic and psychosocial skills. This study contributes to the literature by identifying the distinctive features of a children's football environment, which differ from those found in successful athletic talent development environments, while also sharing some commonalities. The insights gained from this study may assist practitioners in optimizing children's football environments.