GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Diversity In The Sports Industry Statistics

Analyzing diversity in the sports industry through statistics reveals disparities in representation among different demographic groups, highlighting the need for increased inclusivity and equal opportunities.

Highlights: Diversity In The Sports Industry Statistics

  • In major league baseball, as of 2020, African Americans make up just 7.5% of players.
  • The National Football League team heads consist of only three Black head coaches, as of 2021.
  • In the NBA, 74.3% of players are Black, as of the 2020-2021 season.
  • In the NCAA, despite athletes being over 50% Black in basketball and football, less than 10% of head coaching positions are held by Blacks.
  • In US professional soccer, 28.8% of players are Hispanic or Latino.
  • In National Hockey League, only about five percent of the players are Black, as per statistics from 2020.
  • The percentage of female head coaches in women's NCAA sports dropped from more than 90% in 1974 to 42% in 2020.
  • In the English Premier League, only six head coaches have been black from its creation in 1992 up to 2020.
  • In the MLB, General Managers are 4% Hispanic, according to a report from 2020.
  • In 2021, women held 21.3% of all jobs across all levels among professional US-based soccer clubs.
  • Among athletic directors in NCAA Division I institutions in 2016, 8% were women and 7.1% were non-white.
  • 80% of professional sports teams do not have a senior executive from an ethnic minority group, as of 2021.
  • Only 10% of the Sports Journalists in the UK are non-whites.
  • Just 12.6% of board members across “Sport England and UK Sport funded bodies” are from Black, Asian Or minority ethnic backgrounds, as of 2020.
  • As of the beginning of the 2020 season, there were six minority NFL owners among 32 teams.
  • Women represent only 34% of board members in the Sport Australia funding group, as of 2018.
  • In sports media, only 11.5% of sports editors were women, according to a 2017 report.
  • As of 2018, there have only been eight women who have served as head coaches in the NBA's summer league.
  • According to the 2018 Racial and Gender Report Card, Major League Baseball earned a C+ for racial hiring practices and a C for gender hiring practices.

Our Newsletter

The Business Week In Data

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!

Table of Contents

The Latest Diversity In The Sports Industry Statistics Explained

In major league baseball, as of 2020, African Americans make up just 7.5% of players.

The statistic indicates that African Americans represent only 7.5% of the player population in Major League Baseball as of 2020. This figure highlights a significant underrepresentation of African Americans in the sport, considering that they make up a higher percentage of the overall population in the United States. The discrepancy may indicate a lack of opportunities, barriers to entry, or other systemic issues that contribute to the limited presence of African American players in professional baseball. Increased efforts to address diversity and inclusion in baseball may be necessary to cultivate a more representative player demographic.

The National Football League team heads consist of only three Black head coaches, as of 2021.

As of 2021, the statistic that the National Football League (NFL) teams consist of only three Black head coaches highlights a significant lack of racial diversity and representation at the highest coaching level in the league. This statistic raises concerns about the barriers and challenges faced by Black coaches in accessing leadership positions within the NFL. The underrepresentation of Black head coaches not only reflects a lack of diversity in leadership roles but also underscores broader issues of systemic racism and inequity within the league. Additionally, this statistic underscores the importance of actively promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the NFL to ensure equal opportunities for all individuals regardless of their race or background.

In the NBA, 74.3% of players are Black, as of the 2020-2021 season.

The statistic that 74.3% of NBA players are Black as of the 2020-2021 season indicates a significant demographic representation within the league. This statistic suggests that Black players make up the majority of the player population in the NBA. The data provides insight into the diversity of players within the league and reflects the historical and cultural significance of Black athletes in basketball. Additionally, this statistic also highlights the opportunities and challenges faced by individuals from different racial backgrounds in pursuing a career in professional basketball.

In the NCAA, despite athletes being over 50% Black in basketball and football, less than 10% of head coaching positions are held by Blacks.

The statistic highlights a significant disparity in the representation of Black individuals in leadership positions within NCAA basketball and football coaching. Despite Black athletes making up over 50% of the players in these sports, less than 10% of head coaching roles are held by Black individuals. This stark underrepresentation suggests systemic barriers or biases that may be inhibiting opportunities for Black coaches to advance in their careers and attain leadership roles within collegiate athletics. Addressing this disparity is crucial not only for promoting diversity and equity within the coaching ranks but also for providing role models and mentors for the Black student-athletes who make up a significant portion of NCAA teams.

In US professional soccer, 28.8% of players are Hispanic or Latino.

The statistic ‘In US professional soccer, 28.8% of players are Hispanic or Latino’ denotes the proportion of Hispanic or Latino players relative to the total number of players in the professional soccer leagues in the United States. This statistic indicates that nearly one-third of the players in US professional soccer identify as Hispanic or Latino, highlighting the notable representation of this demographic group within the sport. Understanding the demographic composition of players in professional soccer can provide valuable insights into diversity and inclusion efforts within the sport, as well as offer a glimpse into the cultural impact and influence of Hispanic and Latino communities in the sporting landscape.

In National Hockey League, only about five percent of the players are Black, as per statistics from 2020.

The statistic that only about five percent of the players in the National Hockey League are Black, based on data from 2020, highlights a lack of representation and diversity within the league. This figure suggests that Black players are underrepresented in comparison to their proportion in the general population. The statistic raises important questions about barriers to entry and opportunities for Black players in professional hockey. It also emphasizes the importance of promoting inclusivity and actively working towards creating a more diverse and representative league that reflects the broader population.

The percentage of female head coaches in women’s NCAA sports dropped from more than 90% in 1974 to 42% in 2020.

This statistic indicates a significant shift in the gender composition of head coaches in women’s NCAA sports over the past few decades. In 1974, more than 90% of head coaches were female, reflecting a predominantly female-led coaching environment. However, by 2020, the percentage of female head coaches had decreased to 42%, highlighting a notable decline in female representation within coaching roles. This shift suggests a trend towards increased male representation in coaching positions within women’s sports, raising concerns about gender equality and diversity in leadership roles within the NCAA sports landscape.

In the English Premier League, only six head coaches have been black from its creation in 1992 up to 2020.

The statistic “In the English Premier League, only six head coaches have been black from its creation in 1992 up to 2020” highlights a significant lack of racial diversity and representation in leadership positions within one of the top football leagues in the world. This statistic indicates a systemic issue of underrepresentation of black individuals in coaching roles within English football despite the diverse pool of talent in the sport. The data suggests that there are barriers and challenges preventing black coaches from accessing and progressing in coaching positions within the Premier League, highlighting the need for increased efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in football management.

In the MLB, General Managers are 4% Hispanic, according to a report from 2020.

The statistic ‘In the MLB, General Managers are 4% Hispanic, according to a report from 2020’ signifies the representation of Hispanic individuals in leadership roles within Major League Baseball organizations. This statistic indicates that out of all General Managers in MLB teams, only 4% identify as Hispanic. This low percentage suggests a lack of diversity and representation of Hispanic individuals in top decision-making positions within the league. It highlights the need for increased efforts towards promoting diversity and inclusivity in MLB leadership roles to better reflect the diversity of the player base and fan community.

In 2021, women held 21.3% of all jobs across all levels among professional US-based soccer clubs.

The statistic that women held 21.3% of all jobs across all levels among professional US-based soccer clubs in 2021 indicates the representation of women in various roles within these organizations. This figure suggests that there is a gender imbalance in employment within the professional US-based soccer industry, with men holding a significantly larger share of jobs compared to women. The statistic highlights a potential disparity in opportunities and representation for women in the sport, signaling a need for greater efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusivity within soccer clubs at all levels.

Among athletic directors in NCAA Division I institutions in 2016, 8% were women and 7.1% were non-white.

The statistic indicates that in 2016, among athletic directors at NCAA Division I institutions, only 8% of them were women and 7.1% were individuals from non-white racial backgrounds. This suggests a lack of gender and racial diversity within the leadership positions of athletic departments at the higher education level, specifically in Division I schools. These numbers highlight potential disparities in opportunities and representation for women and non-white individuals in this particular industry. This underrepresentation may have implications for issues such as diversity, inclusion, and equity within college athletics, emphasizing the need for efforts to promote greater diversity among athletic directors in NCAA institutions.

80% of professional sports teams do not have a senior executive from an ethnic minority group, as of 2021.

The statistic that 80% of professional sports teams do not have a senior executive from an ethnic minority group as of 2021 highlights a significant lack of diversity and representation in leadership positions within the sports industry. This statistic suggests that there is a pervasive underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in key decision-making roles, which can have implications for the inclusivity, equality, and diversity within professional sports organizations. The lack of diversity at the senior executive level may not only limit the perspectives and experiences brought to the table but also perpetuate inequalities and hinder opportunities for advancement for individuals from underrepresented groups within the sports industry. Addressing this issue is crucial for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within sports organizations and ensuring that leadership positions reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of athletes, fans, and stakeholders.

Only 10% of the Sports Journalists in the UK are non-whites.

The statistic “Only 10% of the Sports Journalists in the UK are non-whites” indicates that there is a lack of diversity among sports journalists in the UK, with a disproportionately low representation of non-white individuals in this profession. This statistic suggests that there may be systemic barriers or issues related to inclusion and representation within the field of sports journalism in the UK, which could impact the perspectives, stories, and voices shared with the audience. It highlights the importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity within the journalism industry to ensure a more accurate and representative reflection of society as a whole.

Just 12.6% of board members across “Sport England and UK Sport funded bodies” are from Black, Asian Or minority ethnic backgrounds, as of 2020.

The statistic reveals that only 12.6% of board members within organizations funded by Sport England and UK Sport are individuals from Black, Asian, or minority ethnic backgrounds as of 2020. This suggests a lack of diversity in leadership positions within these organizations, potentially leading to underrepresentation and limited perspectives from diverse communities in decision-making processes. Increasing diversity on boards is crucial for promoting inclusivity, equality, and innovation within these organizations, as well as reflecting the diverse nature of modern society. Efforts to address this disparity may involve implementing inclusive recruitment practices, promoting diversity training, and fostering a more inclusive organizational culture to create a more representative and equitable leadership structure.

As of the beginning of the 2020 season, there were six minority NFL owners among 32 teams.

The statistic indicates that at the start of the 2020 NFL season, there were a total of six minority owners out of the 32 teams in the league. Minority owners typically include individuals from racial or ethnic backgrounds that are underrepresented within ownership groups, as well as women. This statistic highlights the lack of diversity in NFL ownership, as minority owners are still vastly outnumbered by majority owners who are predominantly white males. The presence of minority owners is important for promoting diversity and inclusivity within the league’s leadership and decision-making processes, and serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to address issues of representation and equity in professional sports ownership.

Women represent only 34% of board members in the Sport Australia funding group, as of 2018.

The statistic reveals that in 2018, women accounted for only 34% of the board members within the Sport Australia funding group. This data indicates a notable gender imbalance in the composition of leadership positions within the organization, with men evidently occupying a larger proportion of decision-making roles. The underrepresentation of women in this group may have implications for diversity, inclusivity, and the perspectives brought to the table for funding decisions and strategic planning related to sports in Australia. Efforts to address this imbalance and promote gender diversity within the Sport Australia funding group could be crucial for ensuring fair representation and maximizing the range of skills and experiences contributing to decision-making processes.

In sports media, only 11.5% of sports editors were women, according to a 2017 report.

The statistic indicates that there is a significant gender disparity within the sports media industry, specifically in editorial roles, with only 11.5% of sports editors being women as reported in 2017. This suggests a lack of representation and opportunities for women to hold leadership positions and have a significant voice in shaping sports coverage and narratives. The underrepresentation of women in sports media positions not only limits diversity in perspectives and coverage but also reflects broader issues of gender inequality and bias within the industry. Addressing this disparity is crucial for promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equality within sports media and ensuring that a wider range of voices and experiences are represented in sports journalism.

As of 2018, there have only been eight women who have served as head coaches in the NBA’s summer league.

The statistic that as of 2018, there have only been eight women who have served as head coaches in the NBA’s summer league highlights the underrepresentation of women in coaching roles within professional basketball. The NBA’s summer league serves as a platform for up-and-coming coaches to showcase their skills and potentially transition into head coaching positions in the league. The fact that only eight women have held this position demonstrates the barriers and challenges that women face in breaking into the male-dominated world of sports coaching. This statistic underscores the need for greater gender diversity and equality in coaching opportunities within the NBA and the wider sports industry.

According to the 2018 Racial and Gender Report Card, Major League Baseball earned a C+ for racial hiring practices and a C for gender hiring practices.

The statistic indicates that in 2018, Major League Baseball received a grade of C+ for its racial hiring practices and a grade of C for its gender hiring practices, as per the Racial and Gender Report Card. A grade of C+ implies that MLB’s efforts towards racial diversity in its hiring practices were slightly above average but still have room for improvement. Meanwhile, receiving a grade of C for gender hiring practices suggests that MLB’s efforts in this area were average but have the potential for enhancement as well. Overall, the report highlights the areas where MLB can focus to create a more diverse and inclusive workplace for both racial and gender minority groups within the league.

References

0. – https://www.www.theguardian.com

1. – https://www.www.espn.com

2. – https://www.www.sportingnews.com

3. – https://www.www.theroot.com

4. – https://www.www.ncaa.org

5. – https://www.www.si.com

6. – https://www.www.sportengland.org

7. – https://www.theundefeated.com

8. – https://www.www.bbc.com

9. – https://www.www.sportsbusinessjournal.com

10. – https://www.www.sportingequals.org.uk

11. – https://www.www.sportaus.gov.au

12. – https://www.globalsportmatters.com

13. – https://www.www.pbs.org

14. – https://www.apnews.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

Table of Contents

... Before You Leave, Catch This! 🔥

Your next business insight is just a subscription away. Our newsletter The Week in Data delivers the freshest statistics and trends directly to you. Stay informed, stay ahead—subscribe now.

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!