The Possible Role of Sports in Keeping Volunteer Reservists “Forged Together” Between Two Call-Ups: The Case of Hungary

Abstract

There is more and more mention these days of the reserve forces, especially volunteer reservists. History has proven that no armed forces can exist without reservists, equally, no all-volunteer force can exist without volunteer reservists. However, the reservists are on active duty only for a limited time, so they must be kept “forged together” during the remaining time – with professional programmes, both physically and mentally. Moreover, the volunteer reservists are not only suitable for this, but also willing to participate in it. International experience shows that reserve associations are the most suitable for this in their role of connecting society and the armed forces. In our study, we examine how the sports activities of reserve associations can bring positive individual and social benefits.