BAMSA’s most recent publication in the journal, Leisure Studies, examines barriers and enablers for promoting bridge. It uses a layered framework which spans individual, institutional, and cultural levels. It is the fifteenth academic article published by Bridge: A MindSport for All (https://bridgemindsport.org/home/resources/).
The paper discusses the limited public and sport recognition of bridge, the declining participation among younger players, and perceptions of exclusivity. This signals the need to reframe bridge’s image in order to encourage new ways of engaging with the game. Other barriers include bridge organisations’ resistance to change and limited organisational capacity, including marketing resources.
The findings are based on 30 interviews with bridge players, teachers, and National Bridge Organisation staff across the UK, USA, Australia, Denmark, The Netherlands, and Norway. The research participants argue that effective promotion of bridge requires interventions that simultaneously address individual motivations, club practices, and broader cultural messaging, including image rebranding.
By illustrating tensions arising from bridge’s position between leisure and sport, the paper contributes to the emerging academic field of Mindsport Studies. It offers a multi-dimensional approach to promoting bridge that supports sustainable and inclusive participation of new players.
Full Article: Promoting Traditional Leisure: Barriers and Enablers for the Mindsport Bridge