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14–15 July 2026 | Loughborough, UK
This flagship event will bring together past, present and future leaders and changemakers in women’s sport, health and exercise. As a Hub for interdisciplinary and forward-thinking collaboration, Loughborough University will provide a vibrant environment for the 2026 conference to explore new frontiers in women’s sport, health and exercise.
Dr Nicola Brown, Executive Board Member of WiSEAN, shared:
“Our WiSEAN Conference has grown in scale and influence over the years, with our most recent conferences attracting hundreds of delegates. The growth in interest from the academic community and industry partners has helped the network flourish. Off the back of successful annual conferences, including Liverpool John Moores (2023), University of Portsmouth (2024), and Leeds Beckett (2025), we are delighted that Loughborough University will host the WiSEAN Conference in 2026. With its world-leading reputation in sport and commitment to advancing gender equity, we’re excited to see how the event will continue to grow and inspire.”
Dr Samantha Rowland, Co-Lead of the Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub’s Health Lab at Loughborough University, added:
“Hosting WiSEAN 2026 is a tremendous honour and an exciting opportunity to showcase the impactful research and innovation being led by and for women in sport. We look forward to welcoming varying communities to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration that will shape the future of sport and exercise.”
Dr Verity Postlethwaite, WiSEAN 2026 Organizing Committee Lead, commented:
“We are incredibly proud to bring the WiSEAN Conference to Loughborough. Our team is committed to creating an inclusive and impactful event that reflects the diversity and ambition of the collaboration between WiSEAN and Loughborough.”
The WiSEAN Conference has become a cornerstone event for academics, practitioners, and advocates dedicated to improving opportunities and outcomes for women in sport. The 2026 edition will feature a rich programme of keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities—all designed to inspire progress and inclusivity.
Further details, including call for contributions, speaker announcements and registration information, will be released in the coming months.
If you are already interested and based at Loughborough University then please reach out to Dr Verity Postlethwaite to be part of the organising process.