Sport officiating - International Forum and Knowledge Exchange

  • Webb, T. (Organising Committee)
  • David J. Hancock (Speaker)
  • Stéphanie Radziszewski (Speaker)
  • Heritage, P. (Speaker)

Activity: Participating in or organising an eventParticipation in workshop, seminar, course

Description

Sport officiating has never been more visible—or more vital—to the integrity and success of sport worldwide. In recent years, research into officiating has taken major strides forward, moving beyond isolated projects to form a truly global and connected body of knowledge. This shift matters: by working across borders, sports, and disciplines, researchers are now uncovering deeper insights into how officials are recruited, supported, retained, and developed.

This event and initial talk will showcase how officiating research has evolved and why this evolution is so important for the industry. We will explore international collaborations that are shaping new ways of thinking, from tackling the challenges of recruitment and retention to addressing abuse, promoting diversity and inclusion, safeguarding wellbeing, and adapting to technological change. Drawing on examples from across the world, the session will highlight how sport is benefitting from a more joined-up research agenda - one that moves beyond theory to provide practical, evidence-based solutions for federations, leagues, and organisations.

For industry leaders, administrators, and officials themselves, the message is clear: the globalisation of officiating research is not just advancing academic understanding, it is helping to shape better policies, improve working conditions, and strengthen the pathways that keep officials engaged in sport. This event and talk offer a unique opportunity to see where the field is heading, what lessons can already be applied, and how research can continue to support the future of officiating at every level of sport.
Period18 Nov 2025
Event typeConference
LocationCoventry, United KingdomShow on map
Degree of RecognitionNational