News
October 19, 2025
Pitch Experiences CEO: Women’s sport changing approach to hospitality
Pitch Experiences CEO Neil Bailey discusses how a surge in popularity for women’s sport has encouraged a new approach to hospitality. Having worked in sport and the media for over twenty years, I’ve seen first-hand how much the game has changed – from the rise of the Premier League to the changing face of cricket [...]
The roaring success of women's sports is not just transforming the playing field; it's redefining the entire fan experience, including how sporting events approach hospitality. According to Neil Bailey, CEO of Pitch Experiences, the growing popularity of women's sports is a significant driver in this shift.
Bailey, a veteran with over two decades of experience in sports and media, has witnessed firsthand the evolution of the sporting landscape. From the explosive growth of the Premier League to the changing dynamics of cricket, he's observed how sports adapt and innovate to cater to evolving audiences. Now, he sees women's sports leading the charge in a new direction for hospitality.
"The energy and atmosphere at women's sporting events are unique," Bailey explains. "It's attracting a more diverse audience, including families and younger fans, and that requires a different approach to hospitality."
Traditionally, sports hospitality has often focused on corporate entertainment and high-end experiences geared towards a specific demographic. However, the surge in popularity of women's sports is prompting a move towards more inclusive and accessible options. This includes family-friendly packages, healthier food choices, and experiences that cater to a broader range of interests.
Bailey notes that fans attending women's sporting events are often looking for a more engaging and immersive experience. They want to feel connected to the athletes and the sport, and hospitality plays a crucial role in fostering that connection. This could involve meet-and-greets with players, interactive fan zones, and opportunities to learn more about the sport.
The changing face of sports hospitality also reflects a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and equality. As women's sports continue to gain momentum, they are paving the way for a more diverse and welcoming environment for all fans, both on and off the field. Bailey believes that this trend is not just a passing fad, but a fundamental change in how sports are consumed and experienced. The future of sports hospitality, it seems, is being written by the rising stars of women's athletics.
Bailey, a veteran with over two decades of experience in sports and media, has witnessed firsthand the evolution of the sporting landscape. From the explosive growth of the Premier League to the changing dynamics of cricket, he's observed how sports adapt and innovate to cater to evolving audiences. Now, he sees women's sports leading the charge in a new direction for hospitality.
"The energy and atmosphere at women's sporting events are unique," Bailey explains. "It's attracting a more diverse audience, including families and younger fans, and that requires a different approach to hospitality."
Traditionally, sports hospitality has often focused on corporate entertainment and high-end experiences geared towards a specific demographic. However, the surge in popularity of women's sports is prompting a move towards more inclusive and accessible options. This includes family-friendly packages, healthier food choices, and experiences that cater to a broader range of interests.
Bailey notes that fans attending women's sporting events are often looking for a more engaging and immersive experience. They want to feel connected to the athletes and the sport, and hospitality plays a crucial role in fostering that connection. This could involve meet-and-greets with players, interactive fan zones, and opportunities to learn more about the sport.
The changing face of sports hospitality also reflects a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and equality. As women's sports continue to gain momentum, they are paving the way for a more diverse and welcoming environment for all fans, both on and off the field. Bailey believes that this trend is not just a passing fad, but a fundamental change in how sports are consumed and experienced. The future of sports hospitality, it seems, is being written by the rising stars of women's athletics.
Category:
Sports