Spanish Olympic & Sports Entities: Roles & Functions

Posted on Nov 17, 2024 in Physical Education

Spanish Olympic Committee (COE)

Non-profit association with legal personality, focused on developing the Olympic movement and disseminating Olympic ideals. Governed by its own statutes, the COE organizes the participation and training of Spanish athletes in the Games. Federations of Olympic sports are part of the COE, representing Spain in the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The Spanish Paralympic Committee (CPE) has similar regulations and functions for athletes with disabilities. The use of Olympic emblems and symbols belongs exclusively to the COE.

Mission and Role of the COE

  1. Promote and protect the Olympic Movement in Spain according to the Olympic Charter.
  2. Disseminate Olympic principles nationally, including in educational programs. Encourage Olympic education institutions, academies, museums, and cultural programs.
  3. Ensure observance of the Olympic Charter in Spain.
  4. Support high-level and general sports development.
  5. Collaborate on coaching development, emphasizing Olympic principles.
  6. Oppose discrimination and violence in sports. Combat the use of prohibited substances.
  7. Represent Spain in the Olympics and IOC-sponsored competitions.
  8. Appoint candidate cities for organizing the Olympic Games in Spain.
  9. Maintain cooperative relations with government agencies while preserving autonomy.
  10. Propose changes to the Olympic Charter and Movement.

Sports Corporations (SAD)

Clubs participating in professional competitions acquire the form of Sociedades Anónimas Deportivas (SAD). They must register with the Sports Associations (AD). Founders cannot reserve benefits or salary statements. A minimum capital is required. SADs must release players for national teams. They cannot have multiple teams in the same category or hold capital in another SAD within the same competition or sport.

Sports Federations

Private entities with legal personality operating across Spain. They comprise autonomous federations, leagues, clubs, athletes, technicians, judges, referees, and other contributing groups. Regulated by statutes through democratic principles, they are governed by a president and general meeting. Only one sports federation exists per sport, except for various sports for the disabled. They must register with the sports associations.

Functions

  • Qualify and organize official sports competitions.
  • Coordinate with autonomous federations to promote sports.
  • Develop training plans for top athletes.
  • Train technicians and prevent the use of prohibited substances.
  • Exercise disciplinary powers and control financial subsidies.

University Sports (Univ. DXT)

The success of Andalusian university sports is linked to the collaboration between universities and high-quality sports services. Regional administration support is crucial, adapting to new scenarios. Competitive sports at the federal level require a sustainable strategy for university athletes. Promoting sports for health and participation should extend beyond the university. Sports facilities and services should be a factor in choosing a university. Socio-economic studies in university sports will advance college sports policy and measure its results.