The representation of women in sports industry

Authors

  • Sofia Kalimeri Democritus University of Thrace
  • Efstratia Tsitskari Democritus University of Thrace
  • ΄George Kosta Democritus University of Thrace
  • Ourania Matsouka

Keywords:

sports industry, female representation, challenges, opportunities

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate women's participation in administrative positions in Greek professional soccer and basketball clubs. Moreover, the aim of the study was to qualitatively identify the skills that are considered necessary for employment by the managers themselves and to examine possible constraint factors that are encountered in the exercise and attainment of managerial positions. Data was collected from the website and after personal communication with the professional football and basketball clubs and their respective Associations. Four women working in the administration of four clubs were then interviewed. The data, which were carefully transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis, focused on the skills needed in management, their prospects for advancement, and the barriers to their advancement in this field. The results showed that women are underrepresented in sport management. Barriers were identified as well as required skills. By mapping the landscape of women's participation in sport governance and identifying barriers, this research not only reflects the current situation, but also lays the groundwork for a strategic discourse on the promotion of gender equality in management positions.

Author Biography

Sofia Kalimeri, Democritus University of Thrace

Kalimeri, S. ,Tsitskari, E., Kosta, G., Matsouka, O.

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Published

2026-05-25

How to Cite

Καλημέρη Σ., Τσίτσκαρη Ε., Κώστα Γ., & Ματσούκα Ο. (2026). The representation of women in sports industry. Exercise and Society, 2, 01–13. Retrieved from https://ojs.staff.duth.gr/index.php/ExSoc/article/view/531

Issue

Vol. 2 (2025): Issue 77

Section

Sports Marketing and Management, Recreation

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