Charlie Stanford: My journey as a Research Assistant at FSL
I remember my first day at Feminist Sport Lab slightly unsure of what I was going into but with an overwhelming sense of excitement that I was about to start something with meaning. Something I had a passion for and something that could ultimately drive change. Opportunities and possibilities felt like they were just around the corner, and I knew that working with FSL members, Sheree and Stephen specifically, was going to be a safe, welcoming and productive environment to be a part of.
Throughout my time as a research assistant, I’ve gained many valuable skills that I know will serve me well in both the workplace and my final year as a sports management and coaching student. One of the key tasks I worked on was compiling an annotated bibliography of FSL members' work, where I summarised their papers and highlighted the key points. I also developed a lot of project management skills, particularly through organising meetings and sending out synopses of our monthly catchups. But hands down, one of my favourite parts of this role was working on my personal research project. I got to dive deep into the topic of equality in women’s football, specifically exploring how coaching in university women’s football can be improved through a feminist lens. It was an opportunity to apply everything I was learning at the lab to real-world scenarios, and for me, it felt like both a personal and academic journey, one that I’ll always treasure.
The people I’ve had the privilege to meet and learn from during my time here have been incredible. Athletes, academics, and experts in the field have shown me that it’s absolutely possible to work in a space that not only inspires others but also creates real, meaningful impact. When I first started, I’ll admit I had a bit of imposter syndrome. I felt like I didn’t have the same experience or knowledge as the people around me. But this placement has taught me that it's okay to be in a learning phase. In fact, learning is essential to growth and self-improvement. Over time, my confidence and competence have both grown, and I truly believe that’s because I’ve been surrounded by such positive, intelligent, and inspiring people.
Through the work we did, I gained a deeper awareness of the barriers women face in sports. I also furthered my understanding of the challenges that arise for transgender athletes, who often face exclusion, scrutiny, and a lack of structural support in sporting spaces. Being part of this placement allowed me to go beyond surface-level conversations and really explore the systems that shape who gets to feel safe, seen, and celebrated in sport. It pushed me to think critically, not just about the inequalities that exist, but about how in the future, I can actively work to dismantle them.
Looking back, my time at the Feminist Sport Lab has been a valuable and eye-opening experience. It felt like more than just a placement, it gave me the chance to grow as a student, a researcher, and someone who cares deeply about equality in sport. I’m leaving with a clearer sense of direction, stronger skills, and a better understanding of how sport can be a space for positive change. I'm thankful to Sheree, Stephen, and everyone at FSL for creating such a supportive environment. The things I’ve learned here will stay with me as I move forward in my studies and career, and I’m excited to continue being part of FSL in the future.
