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Approximately two months ago, all 28 members of the US senior Women’s National Soccer Team (WNT) filed a class action lawsuit against the United States Soccer Federation, Inc. (USSF) in a California federal court alleging unequal pay and treatment under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Pay Act.

Sports integrity can no longer be dismissed as a buzz word. Integrity and, more specifically, integrity issues are having a direct impact on the standing, reputation and economic viability of sporting codes, their clubs and, most critically, their players. In an age of social media and 24/7 news cycles, the focus on conduct, governance and culture is increasing.

Like it or not, we live in a digital age where we are constantly being monitored and watched.

Research published last week by Deloitte’s Sport Business Group shows that the total revenue of the 20 Premier League clubs grew to a record high of £4.8bn in 2017-2018, a six percent increase from the previous season.

Top level athletes suffer for their sport and, increasingly, there is focus on the medium and long-term effects of injuries.

Rugby is a confrontational and physical sport. Its nature requires both players and teams to put aside the very real prospect of finishing the game pretty sore and even a bit beaten up.