The Scottish Parliament's think-tank

Leaders in Sport & Physical Activity: Seminar Series

In 2019, the Futures Forum and the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) hosted a series of seminars hearing from leaders in sport and physical activity.

Each was asked to share the lessons they’ve learned in their journey through sport, along with their thoughts about the future.

The seminars were for MSPs, MSP staff and Parliament staff. Where possible, outputs from the seminars are made available here.


Judy Murray

On Wednesday 5 June 2019, former Fed Cup Captain Judy Murray reflected on her experience of coaching in tennis in Scotland, the lessons she’s learned, and her aspirations for the future of sport and physical activity in Scotland, including how we can use the success of international stars like her sons Andy and Jamie to build a healthy nation for the future.

Pic – Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament

David Duke

On Wednesday 29 May 2019, the founder and chief executive of Street Soccer, David Duke, spoke at the Scottish Parliament about his journey from homelessness to winning the Homeless World Cup with Scotland and becoming a leading social entrepreneur, and the lessons he has learned along the way.

David Duke speaks at the Scottish Parliament, next to James Dornan MSP, chair of the event
Pic – Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament

Shelley Kerr

On Wednesday 8 May 2019, the Head Coach of the Scotland Women’s National Team, Shelley Kerr, spoke at the Parliament about her battle to play football as a girl growing up in Scotland, her coaching journey culminating in taking Scotland to the 2019 World Cup, and her thoughts about the future of women’s football.

Pic – Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament

Gregor Townsend

Pic – Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament

On Tuesday 15 January 2019, head coach of the Scotland men’s rugby team Gregor Townsend spoke at the Parliament on the lessons for leadership that he had learned through his rugby career, both as a player and coach at the highest level.

Chaired by the Health and Sport Committee Convener, Lewis Macdonald MSP, the seminar covered Gregor’s playing career with Gala in the Borders, as well as England, France, Australia and South Africa.