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Good Governance in Practice – Proof of Concept in the Polish Rugby Union

ISG 18 March 2026
good governance in sport

Last week in Warsaw marked an important milestone in the implementation of the GGCS project (Good Governance and Compliance for the Good of Sport) – a Proof of Concept (PoC) carried out within the Polish Rugby Union.

The GGCS project, implemented under the Erasmus+ Sport programme, focuses on strengthening standards of good governance, compliance, and risk management in sports organizations. Its primary objective is to provide tangible support to organizations in improving how they operate and make decisions.

From Theory to Practice

The Proof of Concept is a key component of the project, enabling the transition from theoretical assumptions to their application within specific organizations.

As part of this process:

  • the organization conducts a prior self-assessment;
  • key governance areas are analyzed;
  • direct work with the management team is carried out;
  • areas requiring improvement and potential development directions are identified.

This approach makes it possible to view the organization in a comprehensive and structured way, taking into account its real needs and capabilities.

International Cooperation and Exchange of Experience

The PoC was delivered in cooperation with an international team of experts from Sportlyanz, specializing in governance and compliance in sport.

The process was not only an analysis of the organization’s operations but also an opportunity for exchanging experiences, confronting national practices with international standards, and jointly developing approaches for future growth.

Project Implemented as Planned

In parallel with the activities at the Polish Rugby Union, a project partners’ meeting took place, during which the progress achieved so far was reviewed and the implementation of subsequent project stages was discussed.

Real Change in Sports Organizations

GGCS demonstrates that good governance in sport is not merely a theoretical concept, but can be effectively implemented in practice.

By combining expert knowledge, proven methodology, and the engagement of sports organizations, it is possible to build more transparent, accountable, and professional governance structures in sport.

The GGCS project represents another step towards building a strong, modern, and responsible sports system in Europe.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

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