I have just returned from Play the Game 2009, the sixth world communication conference on Sport and Society in Coventry.

For five days, the 300 delegates from 31 countries - including investigative journalists, academics, sports administrators, former sportsmen and even a former Mafia Mobster - shared experiences and ideas for the future development of sport and its role in society. Much of the discussion concerned corruption, match-fixing and the continuing struggle against doping in sport.

With much of the discussion taking place within the inspiring setting of Coventry Cathedral, delegates were stirred into reflecting in considerable depth on the problems of many sporting bodies as well as the potential role of sport in promoting health, economic regeneration, peace and international prestige.

I particularly relished the opportunity of presenting my thoughts on sport and national identity on a panel with colleagues from Argentina, Brazil, Jamaica and Kosovo which was chaired by the Chairperson of Play the Game, a Danish national.