Join sports and exercise scientists from the University of Leeds at Headingly Stadium to explore gender dynamics within the sporting environment. Participants will discover how gender bias can deter women and girls from sports participation and increase injury risk. We begin by developing a personal playbook and a user persona to explore the gendered environment. Followed by a 30 minute interactive workshop and a 30 minute activity with linked discussion. To close we will highlight key messages and action points that participants can apply to their own clubs, organisations and events to foster a more inclusive and equitable sporting environment.
This event will delve into the often-overlooked issues of gender bias and its impact on sports participation, especially among women and girls. Despite progress in promoting gender equality, subtle and pervasive biases continue to deter female athletes, affecting their participation rates, performance, and overall well-being.
The workshop will highlight how these biases discourage women and girls from engaging in sports and contribute to higher injury risks due to inadequate training, coaching, and support tailored to their needs. By developing a personal playbook and a user persona, participants will explore the gendered environment within their own contexts, gaining insights into the challenges faced by female athletes.
A 30 minute interactive session will provide practical tools and strategies for recognising and combating gender bias. This will be followed by group activities with discussions, sharing experiences and ideas. The workshop will conclude with key messages and actionable points that participants can implement within their clubs, organizations, and events.
Hannah Campbell, Lecturer in Applied Human Physiology, Exercise and Sports Scientist, Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Open to all involved in sports, particularly the women’s/girls game and at the local/grassroots level. For coaches, support staff, officials, parents, club leaders, executives and sports participants.
Of particularly interest for those at the local/grass roots level of women’s and girls sports, particularly those involved in the running of clubs and organisations, organisng of events, coaches, managers and officials