What does the word “membership” actually mean in an association, like a sports club? The concept of membership is often confused with being a customer, a participant, or even a citizen. Paradoxically, the simplicity and obviousness of the question make it more complex to answer.

In this blog, the Finnish Olympic Committee’s association law experts debunk the four most common myths about sports club membership. At the end of the blog, we’ll give you four reasons why it’s important to manage membership in compliance with association law. 

Myth 1: A sports club member is the same as a customer

No. A club must primarily follow the association law, which is based on the idea that members collectively run and make decisions for the club. The law, along with the club’s own rules, defines the conditions, rights, and responsibilities of membership. Clubs typically have categories like regular members, supporting members, or honorary members.

A customer only commits to purchasing a product or service. It’s the club’s responsibility to inform people whether its activities or services are intended for members, non-members, or both — and the club’s rules dictate this. While it’s smart for a club to be customer-oriented when offering services, purchasing access or participating in activities is not the same as membership, which comes with specific rights and obligations.

A customer relationship ends when participation stops or the payment period expires. Membership, however, remains valid until the member voluntarily resigns or is removed.

Myth 2: A family can be a sports club member

No. A family cannot be a member of an association as a single unit because, under association law, a member must be either a natural person (an individual) or a legal entity (like a company, foundation, or another association). Since a family is not an independent legal entity, it cannot directly be a member.

However, a so-called “family membership” can be a way to offer discounts on fees or other benefits if multiple family members join the club individually.

Myth 3: Sports club membership can be obtained automatically

No. Membership in an association is, by nature, valid until further notice. According to association law, membership is created when an individual expresses their desire to join the club, and the club accepts the application. You cannot become a member unknowingly or simply by paying a membership fee.

This benefits both the individual and the club. Freedom of association means having the right to join or not join an association. No applicant has an automatic right to membership, even if they meet the club’s criteria — and the club isn’t required to justify a rejection.

Myth 4: Sports club membership is fixed-term 

No. Under association law, membership ends only when the member resigns or is expelled through a formal expulsion process. Sports club membership is never automatically time-limited. It doesn’t end when a membership fee or seasonal payment period expires.

Membership continues, though member rights may change according to the club’s rules — for example, if the membership fee remains unpaid.

Did you know that Suomisport offers a modern, association law-compliant membership service to support your club’s members?