Chelsea Litchfield

Dr. Chelsea Litchfield is an Associate Professor in Human Movement and Associate Head of School (Staff Supervision and Development) at Charles Sturt University’s School of Exercise Science, Sport and Health. Her research focuses on sport-media intersections, with particular emphasis on gender, (online/social/ traditional) media representations, and inclusion for marginalized groups including women, Indigenous people, and LGBTQI+ communities in sports.

• PhD in Sport Sociology from Victoria University
• Honours in Human Movement (Class 1)
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Physical Education

Dr. Litchfield’s work examines how critical feminism and post-feminist theories can interrogate gendered dynamics in sports media, athlete experiences, and leadership roles. She has established collaborations with Australian universities and Bournemouth University (UK), and her research spans topics such as:

• Gender inequality in sports media coverage
• Social media abuse targeting athletes
• Safe spaces for LGBTQI+ athletes
• Indigenous participation in sports
• Intersectionality in sport leadership
• Media framing of performance-enhancing drugs

Her publications from 2025–2023 reveal a thematic focus on Australian sports culture through critical lenses like media analysis, feminist theory, and social inclusion. Recent articles include studies on Holden’s influence on motorsport, gendered barriers in regional golf, and inclusive physical activity policies for rural communities.

Dr. Litchfield actively mentors students as Honours Coordinator and chairs the Research Management Committee. She collaborates with institutions like Victoria University and Bournemouth University, and participates in networks such as:

• Australian Sociological Association (TASA) Sport Thematic Group
• International Sociology of Sport Association (ISSA)
• Charles Sturt’s Social Equality Intersectionality & Inclusion Research Group

Her teaching includes courses on:

• Sport and media relationships
• Sport ethics
• Indigenous identity in sports
• Research methods in exercise science

Dr. Litchfield’s research output demonstrates a commitment to addressing systemic inequities in sports through interdisciplinary approaches combining sociology, media studies, and public health.