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Boys becoming men: what makes a difference?
Brian McCoy1, Randal Ross, Jacinta Elston
1Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. b.mccoy@latrobe.edu.au
Summary
This study tracked an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth football team 25 years after their 1983 trip. While many achieved social and economic success, underlying health issues persist, highlighting sport's role in cultural well-being.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Indigenous Health
- Sports Science
Background:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth football team undertook a fundraising trip in 1983.
- The majority of team members were Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander from North Queensland.
- This study examines their health 25 years post-trip.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term health outcomes of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.
- To understand the intergenerational impact of sport participation.
- To identify lessons learned from the 1983 experience for future generations.
Main Methods:
- Mixed-methods research approach.
- Quantitative data collection via questionnaire.
- Qualitative data collection through interviews, workshop, and focus group.
Main Results:
- All participants from the 1983 team are alive 25 years later.
- Many participants demonstrate strong social and economic indicators.
- Underlying health issues are present, consistent with trends in other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.
Conclusions:
- Sport offers a culturally safe environment for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.
- Sport facilitates the development and maintenance of intergenerational values.
- The long-term health and well-being of Indigenous youth require culturally relevant support systems.
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