UQ hosts global summit: harnessing the power of sport for innovation

Global experts are gathering for an event positioning Brisbane and Queensland as an international hub for sport technology and performance innovation in the lead up to the 2032 Games.

The 2025 Global Sport University Network (GSUN) Summit will see high-ranking Olympic officials, experts and government and industry leaders from around the world explore how sport can drive innovation, education and policy reform. 

Hosted this week by The University of Queensland, the summit brings together sports science, engineering, technology and human performance to tackle challenges in athlete health, inclusivity and sustainability.

Professor Bruce Abernethy, Executive Director of UQ’s Office of 2032 Games Engagement, said the GSUN Summit highlights the University’s commitment to advancing understanding of the place of sport in education, research and community and global engagement.

“As a university ranked first in Australia and second in the world in sports-related subjects, UQ is well-placed to help shape a future where sport is a major driver for progressive change in social, technological and environmental issues,” Professor Abernethy said.

“As we gear up for the Brisbane 2032 Games, UQ’s central involvement in GSUN underscores its commitment to advancing global sports education and research by bringing together leading universities, government and sports industry partners.”

The 2-day summit involves 9 of the world’s leading sports universities including Loughborough University (UK), the Universities of Oregon and Michigan (USA) and the University of British Columbia (Canada). 

Speakers include:

Mark Arbib - CEO, Australian Olympic Committee.

Matti Clements – Director, Australian Institute of Sport.

Fin Kirwan – Senior Vice President, Chief of Olympic Sport, US Olympic and Paralympic Committee. 

Patrick Johnson - Dual Olympian (Sydney 2000, Athens 2004) Culture and Safety Advisor, Sport Integrity Australia.

UQ speakers and panel guests include Professor John Cairney on Name, Image and Likeness, Professor Monika Janda and Professor Peter Soyer on sun safety in sport, Professor David Martin on technical innovation and Professor Sean Tweedy on sport diplomacy in developing nations.