BEYOND REPRESENTATION: 

EXPLORING COMPREHENSIVE GENDER-INCLUSIVE APPROACHES TO ELEVATE WOMEN IN PROFESSIONAL SPORTS

It’s time for gender-inclusive efforts in women’s sports to move beyond numerical parity. While equal representation is a significant milestone for the sports industry, a narrow focus on the numbers overlooks deeper-rooted inequities. 


This research paper examines the systemic changes we need to achieve genuine gender inclusion in the sports sector, with a specific focus on how the professional sports industry can lead the transformation. 

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what our research explores

01

THE STATE OF PLAY FOR WOMEN 

Uncover what the sporting experience for women looks like in a men-dominated industry.
02

PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF GENDER INCLUSION

Learn about the nuances between representation and inclusion in the sports sector. 
03

OPPORTUNITIES TO CHANGE THE GAME 

Discover the policies and practices that can help foster genuine gender equity in sports.

FROM EXPERTS IN THE FIELD

This research paper was developed as part of the adidas Breaking Barriers Project in collaboration with experts Women Win, Savanta, and Common Goal.

READ OUR OTHER RESEARCH PAPERS

More Obstacles Than Achievements:
An exploration of the key hurdles to girls' participation in sport in Europe and opportunities that remain

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Investigate the current state of girls’ sport in the EU, looking at the barriers that hinder sport participation and the actionable opportunities that remain.

EMPOWERING HER GAME:
EXPLORING THE IMPORTANCE OF GENDER-INFORMED COACHING

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Find out about the role coaches play in girls’ engagement with sports and learn how they can have a positive impact on their participation.