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Participation & Withdrawal
Why children join organized sport — and why they leave. Evidence-based insight into dropout patterns and what keeps young athletes engaged.
PhD · Sport Sociology · Speaker
Research-led talks on children and youth sport.
I'm Lars Erik Espedalen — a sport sociologist who helps federations, clubs, coaches, and policymakers understand what makes organized sport work for young people, and what drives them away.
Four research themes
What I speak about.
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Social Inequality in Sport
How socioeconomic status, gender, and cultural background shape access and experience in organized youth sport.
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Parenting in Youth Sport
The growth of intensive and engaged parenting — what supports and what undermines a child's sport journey.
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Meaningful Coaching
Practical, research-informed approaches for coaches and sport leaders who want to create sport participation that matters.
Selected speaking engagements
Trusted by federations, conferences, and practitioners.
- Norwegian Olympic & Paralympic Committee
- Norwegian Handball Federation
- Norwegian Swimming Federation
- Vestland County
- Faroese Confederation of Sports
- The Football Coaching Conference
Planning a conference, coach education day, or federation meeting?
I tailor talks adn seminars to your audience — from academic keynotes to practical sessions for coaches and parents. Reach out and let's shape something useful.