The work, titled “Understanding women experiences, perceptions and gender dynamics in surfing: an ecological approach”, led by Bruno Silva, a lecturer at the School of Sport and Leisure (ESDL-UNIPVC), addresses the differences and factors influencing female participation in the sport.
The research, which involved collaboration with the Surf Clube de Viana and co-authorship from Ricardo Lima (ESDL-UNIPVC), Ingrid Hinojosa-Alcalde, and Joana Sans-Osanz (INEFC), sought to understand the experiences of female surfers and the individual, social, and cultural factors that shape them.
The distinction was presented at the 10th edition of the COP | Repsol Sports Science Awards, held at the Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education of the University of Coimbra.
The study employed an ecological approach, analyzing the interaction between individual perceptions, relationships with family and peers, practice environments, and sociocultural norms, identifying both positive factors and obstacles such as inequalities in competition and sponsorships.
Bruno Silva explained that the research stemmed from a personal concern about the opportunities and obstacles faced by girls and women in sports, aiming to contribute to more equitable practice environments.
This honorable mention marks the second consecutive year that UNIPVC research has been recognized at the COP | Repsol Sports Science Awards, following a first place in 2024/2025 in the Psychology and Pedagogy of Sport category.
