Four interwoven themes guide the Network’s dialogue. Sporting Cultures and Identities investigates how race, gender, class, religion, and nation shape participation, fandom, and representation. Sport and Health explores sport’s roles in wellbeing, exercise science, and public health, as well as issues of doping, injury, and inclusion. Sports Education examines learning through sport, from youth and community programs to pedagogy, coaching, and motivation. Sports Management and Commercialization analyzes sport as industry and institution—its media systems, market forces, and governance frameworks. Collectively, these themes surface the ethical and political questions that define sport’s place in society: who plays, who profits, and what values endure.
On sport’s motivations, meanings and purposes. Includes the psychology of sport and the interplay between individual identities and access, equity, and participation in sports. Examines the social and sociological aspects of sport, the impact of cultural traditions and cultural differences on how sports are played or viewed, and the influence of sports on national, ethnic, or community identity.
On the relationship of sports participation to physical, mental, or emotional health and wellbeing. Includes the study of health, nutrition, exercise science, sports medicine, and biomechanics. Examines the relationships between health/physical fitness and other aspects of life (cognitive abilities, work performance, social interactions).
On learning about and through sport. Includes physical and health education in schools and communities, teaching and coaching techniques. Examines how sports programs in schools and communities promote learning, tolerance, social cohesion, and community development.
On sports organizations, leadership, and management. Considers sports and sporting events as commercial activities. Explores the impact of sports and sporting events on communities, nations, international relations. Includes sports as a profession and the roles of professionals (athletes, coaches, media and marketing professionals) within it. Examines policies, rules and regulations, and laws related to governance and participation.