Baroness Sue Campbell takes a controversial new role in sports leadership
- Baroness Sue Campbell announced her new role as chair of England Netball, effective January 2024.
- She previously served as director of women's football at the FA, where she oversaw the Lionesses' success in Euro 2022.
- Campbell's return to netball highlights her passion for the sport and her commitment to promoting women's athletics.
In October 2023, Baroness Sue Campbell retired from her position as the director of women's football at the Football Association after an impressive eight-year tenure. During her time with the FA, she played a pivotal role in advancing women's football in the UK, including overseeing the Lionesses' triumph in the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 tournament held in England. This success marked a significant milestone in women's sports, enhancing visibility and support for female athletes across the nation. Campbell's leadership helped foster a strong platform for the growth of women's football, positively impacting the sport's development and recognition. Following her departure from the FA, Campbell did not exit the sporting world; instead, she made a return to her roots as she was appointed chair of England Netball, set to assume her new role in January 2024. This appointment reflects her lifelong dedication to women’s sports, stemming from her own background in netball, where she represented England at the Under-21 level. Her extensive experience in the sports sector, both as a player and an administrator, positions her well to lead English netball at a critical juncture, building on the progress made by her predecessors. In her new role, Campbell expressed her excitement about returning to a sport that she has been involved with for over 25 years. She emphasized the privilege of leading England Netball during a transformative time, aiming to increase opportunities and create positive changes for women and girls through sports. Campbell's passion for netball and her vision for its future underscore her commitment to impact the lives of young athletes positively. She believes that while various women’s sports are on the rise, netball holds a distinct and vital position in the sporting landscape of the UK. Additionally, Jennifer Thomas, the senior independent board director at England Netball, highlighted Campbell's dedication to promoting opportunities in sports and her fervor for women's sports as fundamental qualities that make her an ideal leader to guide the organization into a new chapter. Together, they aim to enhance the growth and public engagement of netball, ensuring it remains a prominent sport within the broader context of women’s athletics. As Campbell prepares to embark on this new journey, the future of England Netball looks promising under her leadership, marking a new chapter in her impressive career committed to shaping the sports field for women.