Dr Garcia, Senior Lecturer in Sport Management and Policy, of the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, will advise the organisation and its board members on areas of research needs and how best to implement these new projects.
He will also advise on EU sports policy issues and interest representation to stakeholders and partners.
SD Europe works in over 50 countries and represent supporters’ groups and member-run clubs. It also works closely with stakeholders, including FifPro, UEFA, national associations, leagues, and European institutions.
On his appointment, Dr Garcia said:
“I am extremely honoured to be appointed to the advisory board. It is a recognition to my work in two of my research areas and I have been following the development of SD Europe since their very beginning. I am really happy to be able to contribute to their ongoing success.
“Also, it is a great honour to be in the Advisory Board in the company of other very distinguished personalities. As a football fan myself, I am also happy to be able to contribute to the democratisation of the game through SD Europe.”
Antonia Hagemann, CEO, SD Europe, added:
“We are honoured to have Dr Garcia on board. Supporters need to be involved in governance structures as clubs and governing bodies and his expertise in football governance and EU Sports policy will play a central role in our future actions.”