ABSTRACT
This chapter draws on information from separate studies on women in the governance of sport to discuss the nuances and challenges in the area of gender and diversity in sport. The study drew information from organisational documents and semi-structured interviews with 22 men and 12 women from organisations involved in sport governance at the national or international level. The participants drew on several stereotypes to describe behavioural- and skill-related differences between male and female directors and leaders. The results at the micro level revealed several nuances related to the role of individuals within boards of directors in advancing gender equity in sport leadership. Governance structures have a significant impact on the performance of sporting organisations, and the lack or low representation of women in decision-making is seen as a sign of poor governance. Social responsibility offers a platform where accountability for gender-inclusive leadership becomes a requirement.
