Sport & Society (SASO) aims to understand the personal and societal impact of sport by studying sport (practices) at the individual and organisational level. By building upon its past and current research, SASO continues to grow to become a leading international centre of knowledge regarding the impact of sport on individuals and on society, recognized by key stakeholders and international organizations inside and outside the sport sector. Over the years, the focus has largely been at the micro level on describing and identifying core components of sports-based developmental practices and analyzing youth’s experiences. We have now begun to look for more in-depth understanding on processes expected to lead to actual social impact.
Recent news
An article about CEMAS published in Tijdschrift Lokaal Sportbeleid
The issue No. 296 (2025) of the magazine Tijdschrift Lokaal Sportbeleid features an engaging article about the official opening of the Centre for Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS).
VUB Celebrates the Launch of the Centre of Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS)
The opening of the new academic year at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel on 23 September 2025 was marked by a particularly memorable occasion: the official launch of CEMAS. As Prof.
Invited Keynote at International Seminar on Martial Arts and Youth Development
On 25 September 2025, Prof. Dr. Marc Theeboom will participate as keynote speaker at the International Martial Arts and Youth Development Seminar: From Principle to Action – Martial Arts for Youth Development and a Sustainable Future , held in Seoul, South Korea.
CEMAS opens its doors: Registration now available!
As announced earlier, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) will officially celebrate the opening of the Centre for Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS) on 23 September 2025, at the university’s main campus in Etterbeek.
Vrije Universiteit Brussel to open Centre for Martial Arts and Science
On 23 September 2025, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) will officially open its new Centre for Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS) at the university’s main campus in Etterbeek.
Upcoming events
Practical info23/09/2025 - 10:30 - 23/09/2025 - 11:15Opening Centre for Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS)
On Tuesday 23 September 2025, we invite you to join us for the opening of the Centre for Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS) at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Main Campus in Etterbeek.
Practical info03/10/2025 - 18:30 - 03/10/2025 - 22:30Paul De Knop Sportmanagement Award Night 2025
Vanuit het VUB-onderwijsteam sportmanagement & sportbeleid nodigen we studenten, alumni, werkveldpartners, stagebegeleiders en andere geïnteresseerden graag uit op de vierde editie van de Paul De Knop Sportmanagement Award Night.
Practical info18/02/2026 - 12:00 - 21/05/2026 - 18:00Lecture Series: Martial Arts, Culture and Society
Willy Calewaert Lecture Series
Dr. Alex Channon (University of Brighton, UK) has been awarded the Willy Calewaert Chair for 2026. He will deliver a series of lectures on Martial Arts, Culture and Society between February and May 2026.
