New Event Set to Inspire A New Generation of Female Sports Journalists

Sky Sports presenter Hayley McQueen heads up an impressive roster of top female sports media and marketing talent appearing at an event at the University of Northampton, aimed at encouraging the next generation of women wanting to work in the sports industry.

Hayley will be joined by sports writer Vikki Orvice, BBC commentator Robyn Cowen, broadcasters Lynsey Hooper and journalist Kait Borsay at the University of Northampton’s Changing Futures For Women In Sports Media conference… oh and She Kicks Editor Jen O’Neill will be there too.

The top female marketing staff from Northampton Saints rugby, Northampton Town Football Club and Northamptonshire County Cricket Club will also be lifting the lid on their careers at the event, which takes place on Thursday 8 February.

Hayley said: “It is great to see the University of Northampton help bring together so many inspirational females from sports media and marketing. I am looking forward to meeting them and seeing the next generation that want to work in our careers. “

The event is aimed at two audiences:  female sports media employees wishing to hear from the speakers and network, plus female students aged 16 to 18 who want to try their hand at sports journalism, marketing and content creation at a series of workshops led by professionals.

Vikki Orvice will be hosting a special writing masterclass for students, passing on her tips from her 22-year career as Sun staff footballer writer – she was the first female appointment of its kind by a UK tabloid.

Robyn Cowen, who can be heard keeping fans updated during BBC Final Score, will be hosting a sports broadcasting masterclass, while Northampton graduate Charlotte Hyams will be talking about studying sport at the University and working as a marketing & events coordinator for Northampton Town Football Club.

Kait Borsay, Lynsey Hooper and Hayley McQueen will also be recording an episode of their award-winning The Offside Rule podcast on the day.

After lunch, our own Jen O’Neill will be hosting a panel discussion featuring some of England’s top sportswomen, as they share their experiences and views on the media coverage of their own sports.

“It’s an exciting gathering of knowledge, expertise and passion for sport that will hopefully inform and inspire a whole new generation of super sports writers and broadcasters.
“The University of Northampton have brought together a fine team of contributors. I’m delighted to be a part of it and I hope as many young women and teachers as possible can get along to join us for what should be an enjoyable and winning day!”

Female sports marketers and sports media practitioners can register their attendance for the free event by visiting the Eventbrite page.

Teachers of females aged 16 to 18 who are studying English or PE and want to be involved in sports media and marketing can register students for the free workshops, by emailing [email protected].