News

The latest research from the Professional Players Federation (PPF) has revealed a surge in female membership across its eleven UK based member Associations with women now making up nearly 10% of total members.

Analysis carried out on behalf of the PPF Women’s Sport Committee shows that in 2019  there were 434 female members and this figure has increased to 1,768 by the end of last year which represents a 400% increase over 6 years.

To mark International Women’s Day on Sunday 8^th March, the PPF Women’s Sport Committee has released a series of infographics illustrating the rapid growth and evolving landscape of women’s professional sport. These are available via social media and the Women’s Sport section of the PPF website.

Driving Change in Professional Female Players

The sharp rise in female membership reflects the broader professionalisation of women’s sport in the UK. In response, Player Associations are expanding their support for women athletes — securing improved pay and working conditions, introducing personal development programmes tailored for female professionals, and ensuring stronger female representation on player boards.

The Chair of the Women’s Sport Committee and CEO of the Netball Players’ Association Liz Bloor said:

“As a small organisation which only represents female athletes, the NPA joined the PPF in 2019. Since then we’ve seen a huge shift in the support services provided by Player Associations to their female members.  With the increased spotlight and significant successes achieved across women’s sport over recent years, it is clear that female athletes have benefitted from this additional support. However there is still a way to go on the journey to equality with their male counterparts in professional sport.”

Simon Taylor, Chief Executive of the PPF said:

“Women’s sport  has been one of the major drivers in the growth of Player Association membership over the last few years.  The PPF is delighted to support this through our work sharing knowledge and experience across different sports and our partnerships with academic research institutes.  We are also reviewing our internal governance structures to ensure greater representation for women’s sport.”