Gill Spencer, Jessica Dooley, Alexandra Fogal, Justina Williams, Kenzie Benali, Clare Gibson, Caitlin Beevers, Lauren Winfield-Hill & Grace Hall
On March 10th, 2025, Headingley was buzzing with energy as the Changing Game Conference unfolded in celebration of International Women's Day. This dynamic event brought together industry leaders, athletes, and advocates with a shared goal: to highlight the importance of gender equality in sports and to empower women to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated spaces.
The Changing Game Conference was designed to spotlight the challenges women face in the sports world, but it also focused on the many strides women have made over the years. Held in Headingley, an area with a rich sporting culture, the conference served as the perfect backdrop for discussions surrounding women’s roles in various sectors, including media, coaching, leadership, and athlete development.
Breaking Down Barriers
One of the key themes of the conference was breaking down barriers. Women in sports continue to face significant obstacles when it comes to equal opportunities, pay disparities, and representation in leadership positions. However, these challenges were met with a sense of optimism, as various speakers and panellists shared their personal journeys and the steps they are taking to change the game for future generations of women athletes.
From the moment the conference kicked off, it was clear that the event wasn’t just about discussion—it was about action. Attendees heard from pioneering women who have been at the forefront of driving change, including former athletes turned coaches, sports journalists, and female executives working in sports organizations. One notable attendee was Gill Spencer, President of the Leeds Rhinos and Director of Spencer Properties. As a trailblazer in the world of rugby, Gill Spencer's presence at the event highlighted her dedication to supporting and elevating women in sports, both on and off the field. Her leadership in the Leeds Rhinos organization has played a key role in the increasing visibility and success of women’s rugby, making her insights invaluable to the discussions at the conference.
Celebrating Women’s Achievements
Another focal point of the conference was the celebration of women’s achievements in sports. Across various disciplines, women have proven time and again that they are just as capable, competitive, and skilled as their male counterparts. The conference featured keynote speakers who reflected on the historic moments in women’s sports, from the rise of female athletes in mainstream competitions to the growing visibility of women’s teams in sports media.
One of the highlights was the panel discussion on the impact of women's football and rugby in reshaping public perceptions. As both sports continue to grow globally, the players and coaches who have helped elevate the profiles of these games were celebrated for their tireless efforts. During this session, Gill Spencer shared her experiences in rugby and emphasized the importance of continued support for women’s rugby, inspiring others to get involved and champion gender equality in the sport.
Networking and Collaboration
The conference also provided ample networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about promoting gender equality in sports. Workshops and breakout sessions allowed for deeper exploration of specific topics, including mentorship programs for young women athletes, strategies for improving female representation in coaching roles, and how to leverage media platforms to amplify women’s sports.
This spirit of collaboration was evident throughout the day. By sharing ideas, resources, and experiences, the conference created a powerful network that can continue to support women in their careers, whether on or off the field.
Looking Ahead
The Changing Game Conference was an inspiring reminder of the progress that has been made in the fight for gender equality in sports, but it also underscored the importance of continuing to push for change. As the event concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper commitment to ensuring that future generations of women athletes have the opportunities, support, and recognition they deserve.
In conclusion, the Changing Game Conference in Headingley provided an essential platform to celebrate and advocate for women in sports. With influential figures like Gill Spencer leading the charge and encouraging others to step up, it’s clear that the game is changing. Every conversation, every action, and every event like this moves us closer to creating a more inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for women in sports.
