Research

SMAANZ Research

Research is foundational to the advancement and legitimacy of the sport management field. Scholarly inquiry plays a critical role in strengthening knowledge across domains such as governance, leadership, organisational behaviour, sport marketing, events, and policy. Through rigorous theoretical and empirical investigation, research deepens understandings of how sport organisations operate in increasingly complex social, political, and economic environments.

The production of high-quality research supports evidence-informed decision-making, equipping practitioners with robust frameworks and data-driven insights to enhance organisational effectiveness, sustainability, and ethical practice. Research in our field, facilitates the critical examination of contemporary issues affecting the sport sector, including commercialisation, inclusion and diversity, technological innovation, and community impact. In doing so, research ensures that sport management evolves in response to broader societal change rather than relying solely on tradition or intuition.

Similarly, research underpins curriculum development and professional preparation, ensuring that sport management education remains contemporary, relevant, and analytically rigorous. By fostering scholarly dissemination through our conferences and peer-reviewed publications through Sport Management Review, the field cultivates collaboration between researchers and industry stakeholders. 

Annual Recognised Scholars

SMAANZ Research Fellows

The SMAANZ Research Fellowship, launched in 2024, recognises community members with a sustained track record of quality research publications, active participation within SMAANZ, and significant contributions to the sport management field. 

Distinguished Service Award

Best Conference Paper Award

SMAANZ 3MT 

Industry Engagement Grant