Stirling Sharpe

Stirling Sharpe is a Senior Lecturer in Sport Management at the University of Canberra and a descendant of the Awabakal People. His research focuses on sport governance, policy, human resources, sport for development, and media, with particular emphasis on match officials, Indigenous Australians, and volunteer dynamics. He has over a decade of experience in sport administration, management, and board-level roles, aiming to improve societal outcomes through sport and education.

Education

• PhD (2026, University of Canberra)
• Bachelor of Sport Management (Honours) (2014, University of Canberra)

Research Interests

Sharpe’s work addresses critical challenges in grassroots sports officiating, including abuse and retention issues for umpires. His studies highlight systemic problems in reporting processes, cultural attitudes toward officials, and potential solutions like zero-tolerance policies and better tribunal outcomes.