Youth Committee (sports club regional level)

Country: Germany 

Duration: Not defined. 

Procedure for involvement: open call for applications, then selected from the applications by a selection committee 

Specific Criteria:  

• Age limit of 27 at the time of election 

• Be part of the specific sport club 

• Selection committee should also include young people 

Description:  

Youth committees are a general practice some sports clubs offer and are not established from a specific organisation. They offer young people a structured way to actively participate in shaping youth work within a club or association. The exact structure of these committees can vary depending on the organization but is often modelled after the club’s executive board. Many youth committees have clearly defined roles such as chairperson, deputy, and secretary, with members typically being elected or appointed. 

A key element is the inclusion of a youth representative in the board, often with voting rights. The committees meet regularly, usually once a month, and manage their own budget, which they use to independently plan and implement youth activities—such as events, tournaments, or workshops. 

Youth committees work closely with the board or other internal committees and serve as a platform for information and exchange among all interested young members. The focus is on enabling young people to participate in decision-making processes and ensuring their opinions are reflected in the strategic direction of youth work. 

Such committees can be initiated either “top-down” by the institution or “bottom-up” by the youth themselves or youth associations. Adults provide guidance and support, but they do not take on leading or instructional roles—the emphasis is on youth autonomy and responsibility. 

Source: Wirksame Jugendgremien