CASES 2025-2026 Annual Report Celebrates Growth, Innovation and the Impact of Volunteers

The CASES Annual Report 2025-26 has been published and highlights a year of significant achievement for the Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES). The report showcases advances in professional standards, education, research, advocacy and member engagement while recognising the extraordinary contribution of the volunteers, committees, divisions and staff who drive the Association forward.

The report details the first year of CASES' new 2025-2028 Strategy and demonstrates how the Association continues to strengthen the sport and exercise sciences profession despite ongoing economic challenges.

Progress and impact

This year’s report outlines achievements across CASES' three strategic objectives: supporting careers through professional development and accreditation, championing the profession through advocacy and partnerships, and improving representation by growing and diversifying the membership.

Among the year's highlights were:

• Growth in the number of accredited sport and exercise scientists, chartered scientists and accredited laboratories.
• Continued expansion of the Sport and Exercise Psychology Accreditation Route (SEPAR), which now supports more than 280 active candidates and has seen 140 successful completions since launch.
• Further development of Clinical Exercise Physiology UK (CEP-UK), including growth in professional registration and the expansion of accredited master's programmes.
• Publication of four new open-access expert statements addressing key contemporary issues in sport, exercise and health.
• The launch of CASES Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs), enhancing the visibility and international reach of the Association's professional publications.
• Continued investment in member development through workshops, webinars, conferences, grants and awards.
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A reimagined conference brings the community together

One of the year's landmark achievements was the successful delivery of the inaugural combined CASES Conference 2026 at Manchester Metropolitan University. Bringing together students, practitioners, researchers and industry leaders, the event attracted more than 350 delegates and featured over 150 presentations, practical sessions, keynote lectures and networking opportunities.

The conference embodied the Association's commitment to connecting research, education and practice while inspiring the next generation of sport and exercise scientists.

Divisions, Advisory Groups and Special Interest Groups driving excellence

The report highlights the tremendous work undertaken by CASES' six Divisions, advisory groups and special interest groups.

Across biomechanics, psychology, physiology and nutrition, physical activity for health, sport and performance, and the newly established Teaching and Learning Enhancement Division, volunteers delivered webinars, workshops, policy contributions, professional development opportunities, outreach initiatives and sector-leading resources.

The Association's Advisory Groups continued to lead nationally important work in areas including artificial intelligence, climate action and sustainability, equity, diversity and inclusion, integrity, policy and advocacy, outreach, student engagement and higher education standards.

Meanwhile, CASES' Special Interest Groups (SIG) expanded their influence across diverse fields ranging from biomechanics, environmental extremes and molecular exercise physiology to disability inclusion, neurodiversity, occupational performance, skill acquisition, analytics and technical practice.

These groups demonstrate the breadth of expertise within CASES and the willingness of members to share knowledge, support colleagues and advance professional standards for the benefit of the wider sector.

Advocacy and partnerships 

Throughout the year, CASES amplified the voice of sport and exercise sciences through policy engagement, parliamentary evidence submissions, research advocacy and international collaboration. The Association continued to work closely with leading professional bodies, educational institutions, healthcare organisations and sporting partners both within the UK and internationally.

The report also highlights CASES' growing influence in shaping professional standards, supporting educational quality and helping ensure that sport and exercise science expertise informs public policy and professional practice.

Volunteers at the heart of CASES

The report celebrates the remarkable contribution made by CASES volunteers.

Hundreds of members dedicate their time and expertise to serving on the Board, standing committees, advisory groups, accreditation panels, editorial boards, divisions, outreach hubs and special interest groups. Their efforts support accreditation pathways, educational endorsement, conference planning, policy development, outreach activities, member services, publications and professional standards.

The Association's success continues to be built on the passion, professionalism and commitment of these volunteers, whose work ensures CASES remains a trusted and influential voice for sport and exercise sciences. As acknowledged in the report, the Board extends its wholehearted thanks to everyone who has contributed their time, energy and expertise during the year.

Strong foundations for the future

As CASES looks ahead to the remainder of its 2025-2028 Strategy, the Association remains committed to supporting its members, championing the profession and building a stronger future for sport and exercise sciences.

At every level, from student representatives and special interest groups to Fellows, advisory groups, divisions and the Board, the report reflects a vibrant community united by a shared commitment to excellence, professionalism, innovation and service. The collective efforts continue to strengthen the profession and ensure that sport and exercise sciences make a meaningful impact across education, health, performance and society.

The Board is looking forward to discussing some of the annual highlights at the 2026 AGM which is taking place on At the AGM 2026, which is taking place on Wednesday 11 November 4.30 -5.30pm (online).