'Probably just sexism'- gendered experiences of resource access in rugby
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Women in rugby face significant gender bias in resources and opportunities, impacting player welfare. Addressing cultural issues and increasing female leadership in rugby are crucial for equitable participation.
Area Of Science
- Sports Science
- Sociology of Sport
- Gender Studies
Background
- Limited research exists on women's experiences in rugby, indicating undervaluation.
- Gender inequalities in rugby are largely anecdotal, lacking rigorous investigation.
- Understanding diverse player perspectives is crucial for addressing disparities.
Purpose Of The Study
- To explore the experiences of diverse rugby players regarding participation and resource access.
- To investigate gender-based disparities in the sport.
- To identify factors influencing player welfare in rugby environments.
Main Methods
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 UK-based rugby players (10 men, 9 women, 1 non-binary).
- Participants represented various rugby environments including school, university, club, military, and semi-professional levels.
- Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to verbatim interview transcripts.
Main Results
- A significant under-prioritization of women in rugby was identified.
- Gender biases were evident in access to facilities, coaching, and playing opportunities, often stemming from management.
- Amateur players, irrespective of gender, reported challenges accessing suitable rugby environments.
Conclusions
- Women's rugby experiences considerable gender bias, affecting player welfare.
- Addressing cultural biases and increasing women's representation in management are recommended for positive change.
- Further research is needed to support equitable rugby participation for all genders.
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