The Intersections of Sports Diplomacy and Global Communications

I recently sat down with THEPRBAR founder Lexie Smith on her Pitchin’ and Sippin’ podcast to discuss the intersections between two of the worlds I work most in: sports diplomacy and global communications.

There’s unsurprisingly lots of synergy between the two in that they both seek to communicate, represent, and negotiate as part of their core functions—even as their goals and objectives may be different.

As mentioned to Lexie, sports diplomacy can thus be one way to better inform international audiences. 

Another core point I touch on is how art of storytelling knows no borders. Globally, what constitutes good comms is the same: having clear, consistent messaging; having compelling storytelling; and having that little unexpected nugget of information or twist in plot that cuts through the cacophony and gets people to tune in. 

These threads are pulled together in my recent Sports Business Journal Daily op-ed, “Sports Diplomacy As An Engagement Tool.”

“It is time to take the onus off of athletes’ shoulders and burden-share the workload, which is why the industry as a whole should do more to engage the world through sports diplomacy.”

That’s why I encourage those in the sports business industry to tap into the sports diplomacy communications framework as one solution to the current challenges posed by COVID-19. 

Sound like its of interest to your organization? Contact me to exchange further.