A sports coach and advocate for women in sports, Joshua Sprott recently spoke with Sport Canterbury before his move to Wellington, reflecting on being a male ally for gender equity and the lessons that can be drawn from his experiences. 

Known for his dedication to coaching women's sports, including hockey, touch, and rugby since 2011, Joshua has also been a vital part of the Women & Girls working group at Sport Canterbury and the Women in Sport Waitaha Steering Group.  

Through these roles, Joshua has recognised the importance of educating coaches, administrators, teachers, and students about the unique challenges women and girls face in sports 

These barriers range from physiological challenges such as menstruation and menopause to psychological and environmental hurdles, due to systemic gender biases that do not exist for male counterparts. 

His experience in female-centric environments has not only empowered women but also allowed him to express a more creative side of his coaching personality. 

“The goal is not to create a woman's world or maintain a man's world but to establish an equitable world where everyone, regardless of gender or cultural background, can thrive together,” Sprott states. 

His work with the Sport Canterbury Women & Girls Organisational Subgroup, and his involvement in initiatives like the Pink Dot project, have highlighted the need for systemic approaches to overcome these barriers to gender equity. 

Joshua leaves behind a call-to-action for more men to become allies. 

“We need to invite more men into the rooms where gender equity is being discussed. As it’s important that they see life from a different perspective, and that they feel welcome and safe to learn and contribute." 

Joshua’s move to Wellington represents more than a career change; it’s an opportunity for the community to engage with a leader dedicated to fostering change and breaking down barriers. 

For more resources and information on becoming a male ally in sports, please visit: 

- NZ: [Alliesforge]( https://alliesforgesport.com ) 

- Canada: [Canadian Women and Sport - What is Your Role?](https://womenandsport.ca/gender-equity/what-is-your-role/ ) 

- USA: [So, you want to be a male ally for gender equality? (and you should)]  https://www.equimundo.org/resources/male-allyship/ ) 

Article added: Thursday 30 May 2024