The Welsh Sports Association (WSA), based in Cardiff, is the independent membership body for the sport and leisure sector in Wales. They work across the country, providing a collective voice for the sector and empowering organisations to become more resilient, successful, and sustainable.
It plays a major role in sport and leisure play in the Welsh life through advocacy, expert services and sector-wide collaboration.
What are the main aims of the Welsh Sports Association?
The WSA is committed to strengthening the sport and leisure sector in Wales, enabling it to thrive now and into the future.
Their goals are to:
- Be a united, independent voice that shapes policy and decisions
- Empower members through training, governance, and funding support
- Offer practical tools like bilingual DBS checks and procurement services
- Drive innovation, inclusion, and sustainability
How does the WSA’s work help Sport Wales to achieve an Active Nation?
By supporting the infrastructure behind sport and leisure, the WSA helps create a strong foundation for an Active Nation. They support clubs and organisations across Wales. So, more people can stay active and involved in sport.
How can the WSA support the wider network of partners in our united Vision for Sport?
As the collective voice of Welsh sport and leisure, the WSA offers specialist support and partnership opportunities that enhance the work of organisations across the sector.
They support partners by:
- Advocating on behalf of members with the Welsh Government, ministers, and policy officials
- Delivering sector-wide services like the bilingual DBS Checking Service through partner CBS, and the Sport and Leisure Procurement Portal via 2buy2
- Offering expertise in business resilience, equality and inclusion, and climate-sensitive working
- Collaborating with similar bodies across the UK to share knowledge and align efforts
The WSA’s membership spans the country, and their reach and influence extend across the home nations. They work alongside bodies such as the Sport and Recreation Alliance and the Scottish Sports Association.
Examples of the WSA’s work
- Led national return-to-sport forums during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Represented the sector on the National Sports Group, enabling elite athlete preparation for Birmingham 2022
- Delivered sector-wide DBS and procurement services, supporting safer, more efficient organisations
- Ongoing partnerships and surveys to ensure services meet member needs
Get in touch with the Welsh Sports Association
Website: Welsh Sports Association
Email: [javascript protected email address]
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Twitter: @WelshSportAssoc
LinkedIn: Welsh Sports Association