My 2013 wish list
If you granted me three wishes, this is what I would like to see in the next 12 months.
2012 had everything. Drama, highs, lows and moments that united us in a way little else could.
But I would like to see this momentum used in 2013 to address some real issues our sports’ face.
1. Sports decision makers reflect the society it serves!
When you look at the UK’s sportspeople, it’s not hard to find black people and communities well represented.
In football more than 25% of players are black, while in athletics the community offers an even greater number of professionals. Yet, when you look at who is running those sports, we see very few (if any) black decision makers at the top table.
This is not only depressing, but it is depriving our sports of much needed expertise, knowledge and understanding.
A more diverse leadership in sport will result in greater levels of performance. Take a look across the pond at the USA if you need the proof.
2. Sports bodies become more accountable
In the time I have been involved in sport, I have lost count of the number of reports and (insert random number here) point plans.
The reason for this is a lack of accountability.
Where there are targets, surely there must be an outside regulatory body ensuring the sport is hitting these markers. Without this I see no point to these plans.
3. Sportspeople form dynamic partnerships
Knowledge is power, and there is so much of it across the community.
I would love to see Premier League footballers going to speak to NBA players to share ideas, collaborate and create exciting partnerships.
Sport is global. Our sports stars need to think big. I want to see them inspire the next generation with what they do off the field of play too.
Some may look at these wishes and suggest they will never happen.
I totally get that view, but if we stop asking important questions, we accept the current situation.
This cannot be an option. The opportunity for us to master “the game” away from the fields, pitches and tracks is long overdue.