John S. Hellström

John S. Hellström is a Senior Lecturer, Assistant Head of Department, and Director of Studies at the Section for Educational Sciences within GIH's Department of Movement, Culture and Society. He holds a PhD in Sport Science (2005-2014) and a Master's in History. His research focuses on the cultural and media representation of Swedish sports heroes, including figures like Harry Persson and Carolina Klüft, analyzing their roles as national icons across different eras. He co-leads the interdisciplinary Research in Education & Movement Culture group, exploring humanities and social science perspectives on movement and society.

Education:

• PhD in Sport Science, GIH (2005–2014)
• Master's Degree in History
• Upper Secondary Teacher Qualification (History/Social Studies) from Stockholm School of Education

Research Interests:
His work examines media narratives around sports heroes, gender dynamics in physical activity, and sociocultural aspects of sports migration. Recent studies include analyses of teenage girls' experiences in changing rooms and foreign athletes in Swedish football leagues.

Publications:
Recent works explore gendered sociocultural negotiations in youth sports, migration's impact on professional football, and cultural dimensions of physical activity. His research bridges sport history, media studies, and educational policy.

Labs/Teams:
Active in the Research in Education & Movement Culture group, focusing on interdisciplinary humanities/social science approaches to movement and society.