Abstract:

On October 29, 2024, the town of Algemesí, in the province of Valencia (Spain), was severely affected by catastrophic flash floods (locally known as DANA), following the overflow of the Magro River after intense rainfall upstream. The event damaged local sports infrastructure—including swimming pools, sports halls, and training facilities—disrupting regular physical activity across the community. Understanding how local sports organizations promote continuity in physical activity after such crises is essential for informing both educational practices and community resilience.

The objective of this study is to analyze recovery strategies implemented by sports clubs in Algemesí to sustain physical activity following the flood, and to explore their educational implications in community-based sport settings. The research involves organizations representing swimming, triathlon, athletics, climbing, tennis, and other disciplines, supported by the Ajuntament of Algemesí. Data collection combines semi-structured interviews with club managers and coaches and systematic observation of post-flood training practices.

Preliminary findings suggest that clubs mobilized adaptive strategies to maintain participation, including temporary relocation, shared facilities, collaborative planning with neighboring municipalities, and community-based fundraising initiatives. These actions illustrate forms of resilience grounded in cooperation, social commitment, and accessibility.

This study contributes to current discussions on sport management and education in crisis contexts by revealing how local sports organizations sustain physical activity despite infrastructural and economic constraints. The outcomes are expected to inform policies aimed at strengthening social inclusion, promoting active lifestyles, and enhancing community cohesion in post-disaster recovery processes.

Keywords:

Community sports clubs, physical activity recovery, resilience, sport, social inclusion.