The Growth and Challenges of Women’s Professional Sports Leagues
Date
3-6-2026
Faculty Mentor
Allen Gilbert, Sport Management
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Submission Type
Conference Proceeding
Location
1:30-1:40pm | Merrill Hall
Description
Women’s professional sports leagues have experienced significant growth in visibility, investment, and cultural relevance in recent years; however, substantial obstacles persist that limit their full potential. This pilot study examines college students’ awareness, perceptions, and engagement with women’s professional sports to better understand both the progress and the persistent challenges facing these leagues. Data were collected through an online survey distributed to undergraduate students at Jacksonville State University, focusing on familiarity with women’s leagues, media consumption habits, and opinions regarding media coverage and gender equity in sports. Results indicate that while most students are aware of major leagues such as the WNBA, awareness of other leagues remains limited. Participants overwhelmingly believe that women’s sports receive less media coverage than men’s, and most reported only occasional or indirect engagement via social media highlights rather than full-game viewership. These findings align with the existing literature, which identifies media visibility, pay inequality, and structural barriers as key challenges. The study concludes that although interest in women’s professional sports is increasing, sustained growth will depend on improved media access, strategic marketing, and continued investment in league infrastructure and athlete development.
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The original presentation of the paper The Growth and Challenges of Women’s Professional Sports Leagues was given at the Student Research Symposium on 6 March; this video is from the Student Research Symposium Awards Ceremony held 16 March 2026 at Merrill Hall Auditorium.
This paper won Best in Discipline (Undergraduate) for the College of Health Professions and Wellness
Keywords
student research, kinesiology
Rights
This content is the property of Jacksonville State University and is intended for non-commercial use. Video and images may be copied for personal use, research, teaching or any "fair use" as defined by copyright law. Users are asked to acknowledge Jacksonville State University. For more information, please contact digitalcommons@jsu.edu.
Disciplines
Sports Sciences
Recommended Citation
Williams, Chloey Dale, "The Growth and Challenges of Women’s Professional Sports Leagues" (2026). JSU Student Symposium 2026. 1.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/ce_jsustudentsymp_2026/1