Inclusivity is something of a strange topic in sports. Many sports fans will not even recognize where it is lacking, as they are more concerned with the sports action on the show. At the same time, those who see the need for more diversity and inclusivity can sometimes be removed from the decision-making process.
As much as there is still much to be done, it has to be said that sports is becoming more inclusive generally. What was once a “boy’s club” is now open to a more diverse people. Success will probably be measured by not noticing how inclusive and diverse sports is – when everybody pays more attention to the games, reports, and betting markets on sportsbooks like Xbet.
But, for now, it is important to promote greater inclusivity and one of the best ways to do that is to look at how far we have come – and what we can do to make the world of sports open to everyone.
The Olympics
The Olympics are often cited as an example of a sports competition that is more pure and free from exclusion than more professional events. However, although its motto of “faster, higher, stronger” suggests something free of commercialism, the word “together” was only added in 2021.
The first modern Olympic Games in 1896 excluded women altogether and female competitors were still greatly outnumbered by the end of the 20th century. Things are improving and there is greater awareness and coverage of women’s events at the Olympics. But this supposedly wholesome, diverse event is a good example of how non-inclusive sports have been in the past.
The Paralympics
Including everyone in sports has been an issue for the Olympics and it wasn’t until 1948 that there was any kind of event for disabled athletes. The first was organized by a neurologist who wanted to promote the rehabilitation of soldiers after WW2. He was able to coincide his competition with the 1948 London Games.
This was a huge step forward for inclusivity and sports but the Paralympics didn’t become a thing until 1960 – and it wasn’t until 2001 that an agreement was made that host cities were required to manage both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. That agreement only occurred in 2008 – and 2016 for the Winter Games.
Racial Diversity
As with any other aspect of the global society, sports has had a checkered past regarding racial diversity. Segregation dripped down into the professional leagues in the US and there have been far more recent instances of racist behavior by fans and players across the world.
But professional leagues have also done a lot to highlight the issue of racism in sports. The Black Lives Matter-inspired taking the knee protest was one recent example of how pro sports has tried to lead the way in combating racism and prejudice. But each season, leagues worldwide have initiatives and programs to ensure all fans get the message.
Who are the Stars?
Inclusivity is not simply a numbers game in sports, though. It is a welcome sight to see such diversity in professional sports rosters now, but there is a question of what type of player is regarded as a star. Mainstream media has traditionally concentrated on white, male athletes, but things are changing here, too.
There is more coverage than ever of women’s sport globally and athletic talent is celebrated, whatever the background. There is still some way to go until a Women’s soccer World Cup is regarded at the same level as the men’s equivalent, for example. But there has been some gradual improvement in ensuring that this level of sports is more inclusive.
Designing for Sports
Even though female athletes have been making headlines for decades now, there is still a problem with the way sports is designed primarily from a male perspective. Clothing and equipment are regularly not as suitable for women, which points to a lack of foresight in that part of the sports industry.
As with all the aspects we have pointed out here, there has been a change in recent times. But inclusivity in sports also means that women are part of the process on and off the field.
Inclusivity in All Aspects of Sports
That last point is very important when it comes to what we can hope for in the future. Fans think nothing of watching—and cheering on—all ethnicities and genders when they watch sports. But there is still a disconnect regarding what we see in governing bodies, top coaching appointments, and general positions of power.
Breaking down barriers between different peoples has to be at the forefront of any social programs within the sports world. Representation is crucial, in the boardrooms and decision-making spheres as much as on the field, if we are to achieve an inclusive and diverse sector that reflects the make-up of society as a whole. However much we celebrate how far we have come, there is still much work to be done.
