The Collaborative Ecosystem of Women’s Sport: A Roundtable Discussion on the Conceptualization, Research and Innovation Agenda

A roundtable discussion as part of the IAS Spotlight 'Women in Sport', fully titled "The Collaborative Ecosystem of Women’s Sport: A Roundtable Discussion on the Conceptualization, Research and Innovation Agenda" - Key Speakers: IAS Visiting Fellows - Dr Becca Leopkey, Dr Dana Lee Ellis, Dr Lucy Piggott Discussants: Dr Verity Postlethwaite As women’s sport continues to grow in scale, visibility, and influence, there is a timely opportunity to explore how governance, leadership, and major events can shape its future. This academic roundtable brings together scholars, practitioners, and policy leaders to examine the evolving ecosystem of women’s sport and to co-develop a forward-looking research and innovation agenda. Building on the work of scholars such as Dr. Rebecca Leopkey (sport event governance and legacy), Dr. Dana Lee Ellis (strategic alliances and sport development), and Dr. Lucy Piggott (gender equity in sport leadership), this session will critically engage with the systems, structures, and power relations that underpin the development of women’s sport across disciplines and contexts. Discussion Areas Will Include: How governance and leadership models can evolve to reflect the values, needs, and ambitions of women’s sport. How major events can be leveraged not only for performance and commercial success, but also for cultural and structural transformation. How interdisciplinary research can support the sustainable growth of women’s sport, from grassroots to elite levels. How collaboration across sports, sectors, and institutions can accelerate innovation and amplify collective impact. This roundtable aims to spark dialogue, identify shared priorities, and lay the groundwork for a collaborative research ecosystem that supports the continued evolution of women’s sport in the UK and beyond.