ALICIA POWE
ST08004430
SCHOOL OF SPORT
UNIVERSITY OF WALES
INSTITUTE CARDIFF
OPPORTUNITIES FOR
SUCCESS IN THE SPORTING
FIELD BASED ON THE DIVISION
OF GENDER
CONTENTS PAGE
PAGE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
i
ABSTRACT
ii
CHAPTER ONE
1.0
Introduction
1.1
Background and Rationale
1.2
Aims and Objectives of Research
CHAPTER TWO
2.0
Literature Review
2.1
Introduction
2.2
History of women in Sport
2.3
Women in Football
2.4
Physical Education and Sport
2.5
Media Influences
2.6
Professionalism
2.7
Women in positions of authority in football
CHAPTER THREE
3.0
Methodology
3.1
Introduction
3.2
Research Strategy and Design
3.3
The Sample
3.4
Research Procedure
3.5
Pilot Study
3.6
Validity and Reliability
3.7
Ethical Considerations
3.8
Limitations
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0
Results and Discussion
4.1
Introduction
4.2
Participant Playing Information and Participation Reasons
4.3
Opportunities and the Improvements in Women’s Football
4.4
Views on Women in Football
4.5
Will Women ever be as successful as Men in Football?
4.6
Conclusion
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0
Conclusion
5.1
Introduction
5.2
Summary and Reflections
5.3
Limitations and Recommendations for Future Research
REFERENCES
APPENDICES
Appendix A:
Covering letter outlining the study, Participant
Information Sheet, Participant Consent Form
Appendix B:
Pilot Interview
Appendix C:
Final Version of Interviews
Appendix D:
Interview Transcripts of six participants
LIST OF TABLES
Table One
Percentage of primary schools providing various
curricular activities to pupils, 2008/09 in Wales. (p.8)
Table Two
Percentages of secondary schools providing various
curricular activities to pupils, 2008/09 in Wales. (p.8)
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure One
Wales Senior Men’s Rugby Team.
Figure Two
English
Football
Internationals
(Male
and
Female).
Figure Three
Ashley
Harkleroad
posing
for
Playboy
magazine.
Figure Four
Rachel Unitt advertising Women’s World Cup
2011.
Figure Five
Anna
Kournikova advertising
magazine.
for
Maxim
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Firstly, I would like to thank the participants involved in conducting this research,
for sacrificing their own time and effort to participate within the study, without them
this project would not have taken place.
I would also like to thank my dissertation tutor, David Brown for his supervision
and guidance throughout the study. I am extremely grateful for the time, effort and
assistance that he offered.
Finally, I would like thank my parents who have supported me throughout my time
at university.
i
ABSTRACT
The current study has shown an insight into the personal views of three female
and three male elite footballers, of which represent a top Welsh club. The purpose
of this study was to explore if gender had an affect or influenced an individual’s
opportunity to become successful in football. The project explored integral themes
surrounding the world of football today. Key aspects covered include the influence
of the media, gender order in society and sport, professionalism, and gender roles
within football.
The intent of the literature review was to draw upon previous research within this
study area, with this a qualitative approach was chosen for this study, where
primary data was collected through interviews. This approach allowed the
researcher to spend quality time with individuals being interviewed, allowing the
interviewer to cover and probe individuals about certain topic areas relevant to the
research question.
The results suggest that within the sport of football, the amount of opportunities for
females has improved over the years and nowadays it is evident that females
have a lot more opportunity to become involved in the game through coaching and
refereeing. The results also indicate that in regards to a professional career
improvements have been made, but this pathway still seems unlikely for a female
footballer to follow.
ii
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER ONE
1.0
Introduction
The main aim of this study is to focus on whether a person’s opportunity to
become successful in sport can be influenced and affected by their gender. The
study will involve interviewing subjects to gain their personal views on the matter
and research into if their life history and personal sporting experiences. The aim is
to find if participants have specific views on the relevant topic, if their attitudes
toward sporting opportunity are affected due to their gender, and if the perceptions
of the participants are shaped by the idea that men can be more successful in
sport than women. In order to research views on the influence of gender in sport, I
must look at key influencing factors such as, the history of women in sport, gender
roles within specific sports, the influence of media, gender order both in society
and sport, and also professionalism. This study will involve the views of both male
and female participants, and will focus on the sport of football.
1.1
Background and Rationale
Historically, sport has been closely identified with men and masculinity. It is still
widely considered that throughout many cultures sport is still predominantly
viewed as a male domain, since sports are ‘created by men and for men’
(Messner and Sabo, 1990). This has always been the case, as Lapchick (1996)
states “sport contributes to cultural constructions of masculinity and reinforces
male-dominant social and economic hierarchies in numerous ways” (p.102). This
statement can be linked to the development of children’s perceptions, as from an
early age children learn and are influenced by society therefore conveying the
image that the male sex is superior. Over the years women have struggled to
reduce the historic disadvantage between the sexes, and as a result females have
been and still are to certain extent seen as in the inferior sex, both in and out of
the sporting world.
'The cultures of sport in Britain have been distinctively male, rooted in masculine
values and patriarchal exclusiveness" (Whannel, 1992, p.29). Traditionally certain
1
sports have been most strongly associated with the male sex, as Cashmoore
(2000) highlights that sport such as rugby, football, and cricket show the dominant
masculine image. These particular sporting environments were not the place seen
for females, and aggressive sports were often deemed as completely
inappropriate. Lopez (1997) notes that the F.A in 1921, said that the game of
football was seem as unsuitable for females and should not be encouraged. This
is down to football having extremely strong links to masculinity, it has been
previously stated that football is still widely regarded as a “man's game” in which
women are still seen as marginal, as players, spectators and as officials, therefore
women who become involved maybe seen as crossing gender barriers,
Hargreaves (1994). However this has changed, as currently some of the fastest
growing female games are aggressive team games like football and rugby. It can
be noted that one of the main barriers that has affected the progression of the
women’s football has involved a lack of resources and opportunities, Williams
(2003). The FA (2011) emphasises that there has been a significant increase in
the amount of women and girls who play football the number of players has
increased from 10,400 to over 150,000 today”.
(Coakley, 2001 p.203) indicates that “the single most dramatic change in the world
of sport over the past generation has been the increased participation of girls and
women”. This has been down to a number of reasons “the five major factors that
account for increases in participation are new opportunities, government equal
rights legislation, the global women’s right movement, an expanding health and
fitness movement, and increased media coverage of women in sports” (Coakley,
2001 p.203). All of these factors have a different level of influence on participation
levels and may interlink with one another.
The media is considered to have an extremely high influence within the sporting
world. For example, Horne, Tomlinson, Whannel (1999) suggest that it provides
stereotypes of the body, with the ideal male being mesomorphic or muscular in
build and the ideal female being ectomorphic or lean in posture. In contrast to
male athletes females receive less media coverage, this has a significant effect on
the social image and the identity undertaken by women. When women do receive
media coverage, (Hargreaves, 1998) suggests that they are often photographed in
2
sexual relation to body appearance, and are more likely to be photographed for
the press or appear on television if they are more sexually attractive sportswomen.
Females would be portrayed in less active shots, where attributes such as power,
strength and aggression are absent from the images. This then relates to the
traditional conception of femininity. Men on the other hand tend to be
photographed to show expertise, creating an image of exceptional ability and skill.
This enables males to show their power, strength and aggression, whilst always
conveying the element of masculinity. If men and women are photographed
together then women would be positioned on the outskirts, with men taking central
positions. (Wenner, 1998)
Figure One
1.2
Figure Two
Aims and Objectives of Research
This area of interest has extensive research and has always been a popular topic.
I intend to investigate further into relevant categories in order to critically evaluate
if gender can affect your opportunities in football. Following this, further sections
within the study will explain the methodology of how the data was collected, a
results section will show the results gathered and a discussion and conclusion will
explain the information gathered.
3
CHAPTER II
LITERATURE REVIEW
CHAPTER TWO
2.1
Introduction
“The culture of sport in Britain has always been distinctively male, rooted in
masculine values and patriarchal exclusiveness” (Whannel 1992, p.31). For
women wanting to become involved in sport, the female body has always been
characterised as weaker, inferior to the male body, and deemed unsuitable for
sport. As a result of this throughout sporting history sports have been classified as
either masculine or feminine appropriate. The idea of women competing in events
that are associated with power, strength and aggression can result in athletes
being treated in derogatory ways. For instance women who participate in sports
such as rugby, football, and cricket expose themselves to prejudice because they
are crossing the stereotypical boundaries of feminine ideology. This prejudice has
grown and developed due to the history of sport.
2.2
History of women in Sport
Sport presents a very stereotypical image of masculinity, this can be traced back
in history to the Greek era. Coakley, (2003) indicates that male participation during
this time was dominant and success showed masculinity. The Greeks saw men as
the superior ‘race’ and women as inferior, women were prohibited from
participating in the Olympic Games. “Serious women athletes often risk their
reputations in the eyes of males when they engaged in sports. Physical prowess
was not consistent with dominant definitions of heterosexual femininity among the
Greeks, so many people raised questions about their sexuality of strong and
physically skilled women, including the goddesses in Greek mythology”. (Kidd,
1984, p.65)
Coakley and Pike, (2009) highlight that “when girls and women lay certain sports,
they are seen to be invaders of male turf. This is why they have been excluded
from some sports while at the same time they have been encouraged to play
sports that emphasize grace, beauty and co- ordination” (p.296). In the past this
was always rationalised by medical theory, this emphasised that participation
4
within strenuous sports would damage the women’s reproductive organs,
therefore resulting in their ability to conceive and look after their child. Although
over the years these myths have faded away, they are still believed to some
degree in various cultures. (Coakley and Pike, 2009)
Some sports are deemed to be more feminine and therefore are more acceptable
for women to participate in, (Coakley and Pike, 2009, p.297) highlight that
“Women who do sports such as figure skating, gymnastics, tennis and some track
and field events, are socially valued because they present athletes in ways that do
not force viewers to deal with the ideologically threatening issues of sexuality,
power and gender relations”. If a woman participates in a defined “masculine'”
sport, such as rugby or football, then she is deemed as having masculine
attributes and as contravening her “natural” gender identity. As a result of the male
dominance women’s involvement in sport has been a difficult and slow process.
The attitudes towards these sportswomen has long been one of vilification and
contempt, however research now suggests that a shift in perceptions is occurring
(Polley, 1998). Women in today’s society are choosing to challenge these
traditional gendered attitudes and continue to enter sports that are historically
defined as masculine, including rugby and football. An example would be Bend it
like Beckham the movie, this film challenges the traditional gendered attitude, and
is indicative of the change in people’s opinions and attitudes. The story is based
upon an Asian girl, who lives in England with her family, Russell (2002) states
“She wants to play football like her hero, David Beckham. But being a girl, her
chances are limited to having a kick about in the local park and, being an Asian
girl, her family don't even agree with her doing that. As her mum says: ‘Who'd
want a girl who plays football all day but can't make chapattis?’.” (bbc.co.uk/films).
The film also addresses the stereotypical topic of all female footballers being
“gay”, during the film one of the female footballers mum thinks that she is a lesbian
as she plays football and has short hair, the females reaction played by Keira
Knightly is “Mother, just because I wear trakkies and play sport does not make me
a lesbian!” (imdb.com). The ending of the film results in the two female footballers
being scouted and moving to America to play football.
5
2.3
Women in Football
Hargreaves, (1994) suggests that during the Victorian era when sport was an
uncontested male domain, for most women access and participation was
extremely limited. One of the areas in which women challenged the notion of sport
as an exclusively male domain was women’s football. The earliest recorded
football match took place in North London in 1895, this marked the beginning of a
chequered history for women’s football in Britain.
As (Lopez, 1997, p.3) states “A huge growth in women’s football took place during
the time of the First World War, the period 1914 to 1919, when women were called
upon to fill the void factories left by men who had gone to fight”. One of the most
famous teams during this time was the Dick Kerr Ladies, they were made up of
factory workers and these women in turn helped to change the perception of
women’s involvement within the sport of football. Women’s football continued to
progress until 5th December 1921 when the Football Association known as the FA
made a significant decision which changed the face of women’s football. The
decision the FA council made was to ban women from playing football on League
grounds. Williams and Woodhouse (1999) note that this decision was made on the
grounds that “the game of football quite unsuitable for females and should not be
encouraged” (p.7). This ban was a defining moment in women’s football as it
effectively stopped women from playing on suitable pitches with suitable facilities.
As Williams (2003) notes the withdrawal of the FA did not end women's football
completely, but it hindered progress of the sport and created many future barriers
that go on to affect opportunity and resources.
Throughout the decades since this decision the attitude towards women's football
has begun to change, and the number of women players in Britain is on the
increase. The FA (2011) state that “there has been an increase in the number of
players, clubs, leagues and competitions since 1993; the number of players has
increased from 10,400 to over 150,000 today”. This is a vast improvement in
participation levels and “Sport England’s Active People survey in 2008 highlighted
that 260,000 women and 1.1 million girls play some form of football in England.
These increases in participation are mirrored internationally with 26 million
6
females playing across the world, of which 4.1 million are playing affiliated football
– this is a 54 per cent growth since the year 2000 (FIFA Big Count 2006)” (FA,
2011).
Although women's football is seen to be on the up, some people still don’t
necessarily agree with the participation of females in this sport. Coakley and Pike,
2009) highlight a statement made by Ted Croker, former secretary of the FA
(2007).
“Football is a game of hard, physical contact, a form of combat. It is, and must
remain, a man’s game. Women have no place in it except to cheer on their men,
wash and iron their kit, and prepare and serve refreshments”. (p.266)
This is a very strong opinion, and is not necessarily the opinion shared by
everyone but it does illustrate a view held by individuals (some of whom are very
influential in the game) in the world who do feel that women should be breaking
down the masculine barriers and participating in certain sports, as they feel this
isn’t the behaviour that a women should have.
2.4
Physical Education and Sport
Effectively at a young age, this is where the interest to participate within sport is
generated. (Paechter, 2003b) states that “Girls and women have long been
excluded for sport and physical activity due to perceptions of their inherent
weakness and fragility. It is only in the last century that female participation in
physical activities has begun to gain acceptance and encouragement. Despite this
growing involvement, many barriers remain in place for girls and women wishing
to be physically active. Gendered forms of bodily expression continue to be
reinforced through physical education classes and curricula that separately teach
traditionally masculine or feminine activities to boys and girls, (p.262).
Sport Wales carried out a survey in 2008-09, the aim of the survey is to “monitor
the delivery of physical education in Welsh Schools.” Sport Wales (2010, p.1)
Below are two tables showing the percentages of various curricular activities
7
offered to children, table one shows primary schools in Wales and table two shows
secondary schools in Wales.
Table One
Table Two
From the tables above it can be seen that during primary school the percentage of
activities provided to each gender are very similar. Whereas during secondary
school there are huge differences between the percentages of netball, cricket,
dance, rugby, and aerobics.
2.5
Media Influences
Coakley and Pike (2009) emphasis that it has been considered that the media has
an extremely influential influence within sport, many researchers indicate that in
ways sport and the media are intertwined together. Coakley and Pike (2009)
suggest that the media can affect and shape us as a person, “they frame and
influence many of our thoughts, conversations, decisions and experiences.”
(p.427). From this (Kinkema and Harris, 1998 p.27) imply that “much of what we
know and understand about sport is shaped by the media”.
The media is a powerful tool within society today, Kian and Mondello (2008)
indicate that masculinity rules in the sports media. Coakley et al (2009) suggests
that the male sex dominates the world of media, with men’s football being at the
8
top. Duncan and Messner (2005) highlight that; men’s sport receives
approximately ninety five percent of coverage in all the media. Of all sports men’s
football clearly dominates television and newspaper coverage.
“Of the millions [of pounds] that circulate in the media sport industry, only a small
proportion is ever used to nurture grassroots sport . . . [Elite] sport is now, more
than ever, the playground of corporate capitalism.” (Whannel, 2002 p.215)
When it comes to sports broadcasting, Sky is seen to be the main broadcasting
company. Dickinson (2009) notes that during the years of 2007 to 2010 Sky paid
an extortionate price of 1.7 billion pounds to cover certain matches in the Premier
League. As the contract was up for renewal in the year of 2010, “Sky paid more
than £1 billion to secure its grip as the main Premier League broadcaster. The
company has kept its hold on the majority of live games, 92 out of the 138
matches available, by retaining its four existing packages.” (timesonline.co.uk)
With more women nowadays participating in “masculine sports”, the stereotyping
surrounding female players is significant. Hargreaves (1994) suggests that
“because football is characterised as a ‘masculine sport’, sexuality becomes a
particular issue.” (p.253). One of the main reasons for this wide spread
stereotypical image of female footballers may be due to the impact of the media,
and its selective coverage of female players. This stereotypical image of the
female football player may also be a reason why some young girls/ women choose
not to participate in male associated sports. Woodhouse (1991, p.44) states that
“With social pressure on girls to conform to expected female behaviour, it is hardly
surprising that many girls lose interest in sports, especially so called ‘masculine
sports’ such as football.” This could be one reason why women’s football has
found it hard to progress throughout the years.
Coverage of women's sports is not seen as a priority, (Coakley et al, 2009, p.453)
state that “everyday coverage of women's sports continues to make up only about
5 per cent of total sports coverage across all media.” The main sports that are
covered on a regular basis for females are netball, tennis, and athletics. Coakley
et al (2009) indicates that these sports all have feminine attributes such as
9
balance, elegance, and a nonaggressive element, these highlight traditional
femininity. Whereas men’s sports covered by the media tend to emphasise
strength, power, speed, and aggression.
Media coverage between the sexes can be seen to be very different, Coakley et al
(2009) highlights that “Commentators for men’s sports seldom refer to male
athletes by their first names, and almost never call them ‘boys’ or ‘gentlemen’.”
Male athletes are also often referred to warriors who are going into battle. Women
on the other hand tend to be highlighted for their “personal characteristics of the
athletes, such as their attractiveness, their spouses and children, their domestic
interests and skills, and their vulnerabilities and weaknesses.” (p.454) When being
photographed Wenner, (1998, p.176) indicates that sportswomen “were more
likely to be photographed in postures connoting deference (power physical
positions, smaller size, head and body canting) than men, while men were more
likely portrayed in postures connoting dominance (higher physical elevation, larger
size, positions of protectiveness and distance) than women.” This male dominance
is also highlighted when both sexes are photographed together, Wenner (1998)
notes that that the women would be positioned on the edge, with the men being
placed in the centre emphasising the power and authority of the male sex.
When women are covered by the media they are often viewed and reported as
sex symbols. Bishop (2003) highlights that sports magazines have been
notoriously slow to cover women's sports, and female athletes, despite this sports
women have on more than one occasion been photographed displaying sexual
images, advertising men’s toiletries and alcohol. Below are several images
reinforcing this point, Figure three highlights tennis player Ashley Harkleroad
posing for Playboy magazine.
10
Figure Three
England’s defender Rachel Unitt has also been photographed, below is an image
of the female footballer advertising for the Women’s 2011 World Cup. Figure five
highlights Anna Kournikova advertising for Maxim magazine, this magazine is
notoriously known for being a men’s magazine which is best known for its
revealing photographs of females.
11
Figure Four
Figure Five
Women's Super League (2010, p.3) states that “At present, most of the media
(apart from the small number of established women's football correspondents) do
not take a considered interest in women’s football, other than when the national
team does well at a major tournament. There is no momentum or consistency in
the media profile for the game except for a handful of journalists. However, The
FA WSL has the chance to change this. With our top women footballers playing
exciting games of a higher quality in this new, televised league, we have the
opportunity to convert the media and build a new and wider fan base through
alternative media platforms.”
2.6
Professionalism
The development of professional women’s sporting leagues illustrates the
progress that female athletes have made over the last century. But some of the
old gender stereotypes are still prevalent even today. While women athletes are
gaining more and more recognition for their physical abilities and strength, male
athletes who wish to enter into traditionally female sports suffer similar difficulties
women experienced gaining recognition for their abilities in male associated
sports. A stereotypical judgement of men, who participate in traditionally feminine
12
sports such as ice skating and cheerleading, is that they are gay. However this
may not be the case, the judgement is still made, it is also often the same for
women. Hargreaves (1994, p.253) suggests “Because football is characterised as
a ‘masculine sport’, sexuality becomes a particular issue.”
7
The growth in mass participation of women's football has both fed into and been
stimulated by the growth of professional level women's football, Holt and Mason,
(2000 p.12) state that Women’s football “grew dramatically in the 1990s. The
number of women’s teams rose from 500 to 4,500 from 1993 to 2000 and the FA
announced plans for a professional women’s league along the lines of that in the
United States.”
This league is known as the Women’s Super League, will launch in April, 2011.
Women's Super League (2010) states that “The FA’s ambition is to create a
competitive, sustainable and commercially attractive league at the top of women’s
football in this country. We want to make sure that our talented players can play
semi professional football in an exciting top flight domestic league, which will also
help to prepare them well for international competition.” (p.1) In addition to this the
“FA WSL’s marketing vision is to revolutionise and grow women’s football so that
the game is more commercially sustainable, the players are seen as icons, the
clubs build bigger and more loyal fan bases, and these fans enjoy a greater
experience.” (p.1) The FA is investing over £3 million pounds into the new Super
League and there are also ongoing discussions with ESPN of some of the games
being televised. In terms of gaining a professional career out of football, the
Women’s Super League (2010) states that “a club can pay no more than four
players an annual salary of more than £20k.” (p.5) In addition to this there are
professional women's soccer leagues in the United States of America, and
Holland. Comparing this annual wage to a professional male footballers wage the
difference is colossal with men earning nearly thirty four times this. BBC Sport
Football (2006) states that “Premiership footballers earn an average of £676,000
per year” (news.bbc.co.uk)
13
2.7
Women in positions of authority in football
Although men have been the dominating sex in sport for hundreds of years,
women are breaking into and challenging these gendered norms. The number of
female football players in Britain is increasing, The FA (2009) “Last season over
female 147,000 players competed in affiliated league and cup competitions – a
figure which has risen from just 10,400 in 1993” (thefa.com).
In addition to this females aren’t only getting involved with playing football, but
more women are becoming match officials, coaches and administrators. The FA
(2011) indicate that “Over 20,000 females have successfully attained FA coaching
qualifications (including 150 Level 3 - UEFA ‘B’ - coaches) and full-time women’s
Football Development Officers (FDO) are now employed across the country.” In
addition to this The FA (2011) highlight that “the number of female referees has
increased by 21 per cent and The FA launched a specific Female Referees
Strategy and Female Ambassador scheme.” (thefa.com). As well as the amount of
female coaches increasing in football, Sport Scotland (2008, p.1) state that
“around 631,000 women in the UK (2.5% of all women) were involved in some
kind of coaching during 2006, compared with 966,000 men (4.1% of all men)”
Women are also taking on roles within administrating roles, Karen Brady is vicechairman of premiership side West Ham United. However Woodyer and McBirnie
(2009) note that “of the 24,000 registered referees, only 1,066 are female.”
(thefa.com)
Although traditions are changing, are people’s opinions and feelings towards a
women's judgement changing. As men have been the dominating sex over the
years, women are still challenging these norms and trying to break through the
barriers, but will people only trust male judgement, especially in traditional
masculine sports such as football. A recent sporting example of this is the incident
where Sian Massey a Barclays Premier League official was criticised and mocked
during a Premier League game in which she was a lineswomen. The female
lineswomen was verbally criticised by two Sky Sports presenters Andy Gray and
Richard Keys, the sexist comments included:
14
Keys: “Somebody better get down there and explain offside to her.”
Gray: “Can you believe that? A female linesman. Women don’t know the offside
rule.”
Keys: “Course they don’t. I can guarantee you there will be a big one today. Kenny
(Liverpool manager Dalglish) will go potty. This isn’t the first time, is it? Didn’t we
have one before?”
It can be emphasised that women who participate in traditional masculine sports
are challenging the stereotypical norms and therefore men may be intimidated and
try to protect their masculinity. Although women's football is growing and
becoming more established as a sport, the gap between men’s football and
women's is considerable.
15
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
CHAPTER THREE
3.1
Introduction
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether an individual’s perception of
opportunity is affected by their gender within football. The research carried out has
close reference to gender issues within sport and, the life history of both gendered
individual sporting athletes.
According to (Thomas and Nelson, 1996 p.62) “the purpose of the method section
is to explain how to conduct the study; who the subjects are, how to measure and
analyse the results and how to design the study.” Before any studies can begin,
the researcher must evaluate the different methods available, and choose the
most appropriate according to the study. A researcher can direct their study to
obtain relevant beliefs, views, facts and attitudes.
The following sections describe and outline the specific methods that were used in
the data collection process, the rationale behind the process and also the
treatment of the data collected.
3.2
Research Strategy and Design
There are two types of data collection approaches, these are qualitative and
quantitative. Robson (2002) identifies that both types of research can be placed at
opposite ends of the research continuum.
(Holloway, 1997 p.1) notes that, qualitative research “is a form of social inquiry
that focuses on the way people interpret and make sense of their experiences and
the world in which they live. To understand the social reality of individuals, groups
and cultures. Researchers use this type of approach to explore the behaviour,
perspectives and experiences of the people they study.” As this research method
explores behaviours and experiences, the main type of data collection used are,
interviews and focus groups.
16
The main type of data collection for quantitative research is surveys, theoretically
this research can reach many more people and is far less time consuming than
qualitative. Aliaga and Gunderson (2002) highlight that Quantitative research is
“Explaining phenomena by collecting numerical data that are analysed using
mathematically based methods (in particular statistics)”. (Cited in Muijs, 2004,
p.1).
The type of research that this study aims to gather means that a qualitative
approach needs to be adopted, as the nature of the data collected will be
concerning people’s attitudes, views and opinions. The most relevant data
collection method would be qualitative analysis, as it “emphasises the importance
of the subjective experience of individuals” (Burns, 2000, p. 3). However (Nau,
1995, p.1) notes that the use of both approaches “can produce a final product
which can highlight the significant contributions of both.”
3.3
The Sample
(Babbie, 1998 p.109) highlights that “the population for a study is the group about
whom we want to draw conclusions.”
The subjects used in this study were selected by both opportunity and criterion
based sampling. (Thomas and Nelson, 2001, p.334) indicate that “criterion based
sampling is sampling in which the participants are selected because they posses
certain characteristics set forth by the researcher.” This is relevant to the study as
all subjects were chosen depending on their age and role within their team.
Opportunity based sampling involves selecting participants that are accessible and
relevant to the study. For example, choosing relevant subjects who play for
Swansea City Youth, and Women’s team.
3.4
Research Procedure
Once the subjects participating within the study were confirmed, contact was
made in order to arrange time and location to carry out the interviews. All
participants were presented with identical consent forms and information sheets
17
about the study being carried out, explaining that the data collected will be
confidential and their involvement in the study can be terminated at any time,
during or post study. The data collection method being used for this study is
interviews, interviews according to Patton (1990, p.278) “allow us to enter into the
other person’s perspective”. These interviews take a form of one to one basis
each lasting approximately thirty minutes. The reason for this is that the individual
doesn’t feel pressured to answer in a certain way or to produce a certain
response, therefore making their responses less restricted. This method of data
collection was chosen as Haralambos and Holborn (1995) state that “Interviews
have a clear advantage over questionnaires” (p.841). This is due to issues being
discussed can go into greater depth, compared to restricting the interviewee to set
choices.
The interviews were carried out with a set of fixed basic questions, this is
important to ensure that the relevant themes and topics were covered in the
interview. Depending on the individual response gathered affected how much the
researched needed to probe in order to gain a full answer. When interviewing it’s
important to create a relaxing environment, in order for the individuals to feel at
ease with the situation.
The six interviews were carried out during January and February 2011. Before the
interviews, each participant was talked through the process. It was explained that
a Dictaphone would be used in the data collection process in order to guarantee
accuracy, also the participants were shown the questions being asked. This was
done in order to relax them and prepare them for the subject area that was going
to be discussed.
The interviews carried out were a success, most subjects answered the questions
in depth. But when struggling to respond the researcher stepped in and adjusted
the questions and probed them.
18
3.5
Pilot Study
Hall (2008, p.79) states “A pilot study is a smaller scale version of the main study
and is designed to check that the design is doing the job it is supposed to.”
A pilot study was completed prior to the first interview, this was conducted to
highlight any unanticipated problems. This is an important aspect of the research
process as this will ultimately determine the success of the data collection. By
carrying out a pilot study it allowed the questions and the layout of the
questionnaire to be assessed. By doing this it allowed time for any changes that
were needed to be made to be questionnaires, therefore allowing valid data to be
collected, before distributing to the larger sample of subjects.
By using a pilot study Seidman (2006, p.39) emphasises that individuals will
“come to grips with some of the practical aspects of establishing access, making
contact, and conducting the interview.” There are many positive aspects to
carrying out a pilot study.
The pilot study was conducted in order to ensure all questions were easy to
understand, and relevant to the study. In addition to this it allows the researcher to
practice developing a rapport with the subjects. As suggested by Thomas and
Nelson (2001) ‘A pilot study is recommended for any type of research but is
imperative for a survey’ (p. 266).
For my personal interviewing I found the pilot study very positive and helpful. It
allowed me to increase my confidence in probing subjects and familiarise myself
with the questions being asked. By running a pilot study I was able to make minor
adjustments to my questions for the real interviews.
3.6
Validity and Reliability
Bryman (2004, p.273) reports concern over the relevance of both reliability and
validity to qualitative studies, however the two terms are adapted for a qualitative
approach, by “playing down the salience of measurement issues”.
19
Reliability within a study exists when a researcher adopts the same methods,
procedures and analysis, in order to produce the same results when conducted a
second time round (Bryman, 2004). According to Gratton and Jones, (2004, p.26)
reliability “refers to the consistency of the results obtained” ensuring that the same
conditions were maintained.
Bryman (2004, p. 273) highlights that it is important to be aware that external
reliability is “the degree to which a study can be replicated”. As the study
conducted was an investigation into individual’s thoughts, attitudes and lifestyles,
it was difficult to achieve external reliability, as the participants attitudes are just a
reflection of culture and society at that particular time and as a result are subject to
change in the future. There are many threats that can interfere with reliability,
these include subject error, this can be overcome by choosing a neutral and
mutually convenient time and place for the interview. Another factor is subject
bias, this can be reduced by emphasising anonymity and confidentiality, also
reminding participants that there are no right or wrong answers to the questions
asked. In addition to this, researcher error can be overcome by standardising the
method of approach and interviewing so that the process of collecting data is the
same. Also with the concept of reliability in mind, the implication of a female
candidate taking part in this research study was considered. This being down to
(Warren, 1988) highlighting that women often have “less threatening quality, and
better communication skills” (p.44), resulting in them being easier to build rapport
with. Although the researcher emphasised to the participants that there were no
right or wrong answers to the questions, she displayed a neutral position and was
careful not to show her own views throughout the interviews.
When any research is proposed it is crucial that validity is taking into
consideration. In order to ensure and maintain this with the study, three methods
were adopted. The first method relates to the interviewer, it is vital that the same
interviewer conducts all the interviews. This is to make sure that the amount, and
style of probing is consistent through each interview, also subjects may feel more
conformable knowing that the same interviewer completed all the interviews,
therefore this allows them to be more relaxed and open throughout, resulting in
high quality data being gathered. However, this can be a sourced of invalidity as
20
Thomas and Nelson, (2001, p.273) state “the interviewer tends to improve with
experience, and thus the results of earlier interviews may differ from interviews
conducted later in the study”. The second method is the basic structure of the
interviews will be identical, all participants will be asked the same questions.
However the responses given, will affect the follow up questions. The final method
that is of high importance when interviewing is that, the entire process is recorded.
All the interviews carried out will be recorded by Dictaphone, this enables entirely
accurate transcripts as the interviewer will have exact wording of the interviews.
3.7
Ethical Considerations
A potential risk of this study is that for female footballer players it could highlight
factors that may inhabit their football career. This may cause players to reflect on
experiences and question their future in the sport, possibly resulting in some
emotions that may cause distress or discomfort. The consent obtained from each
of the participants was also of importance, and all the information gathered from
the interviews will only be exposed to me as the researcher and will remain
completely anonymous and confidential. Burns (2000) highlights that it is important
to keep the responses to personal questions anonymous, as this ensures that the
reader is unable to deduce the identity of the interviewees.
3.8
Limitations
Within any study there are definite strengths and weaknesses that can be
identified. In order to broaden the data collected a larger sample could have been
used, also the interviewing of sports professionals and other sporting backgrounds
would have been beneficial to the results. It would have added more depth to the
study, resulting in more accurate data being collected. In addition to this to gain a
better understanding and more information from the interviewees, more than one
data collection method could have been used. A key factor that changed over time
was the interview technique, as confidence grew, more interaction occurred
resulting in a better technique of probing and more interaction between the
researcher and interviewee.
21
CHAPTER IV
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
CHAPTER FOUR
4.1
Introduction
The intention if this chapter is to report the views and experiences of the three
female and, three male participants in the football club sampled. Hammell,
Carpenter, and Dyck, (2000, p.28) state that “Data analysis is a dynamic process
weaving together recognition of emerging themes, identification of key ideas or
units of meaning, and material acquired from the literature.” I have also presented
a number of themes that emerged or became evident after repeatedly reading the
transcripts and thoroughly analysing the data collected, these themes were
considered meaningful and central to my investigation, Hammell, et al (2000). The
six transcripts were constantly compared to identify common meanings and
themes between both the sexes and individually. From here the themes that
emerged will be placed into four broad categories, summarising the key points
found in the interviews, and in combination with the relevant literature these
themes will be evaluated and discussed in light of the studies aims.
4.2
Participant Playing Information and Participation Reasons
During my conversation with all six interviewees what was interesting to note is
that all three females have represented their country at some sort of level, with two
participants receiving caps at Under 19’s level. Comparing this to the males, of
which only one individual had represented his country. All of the interviewees
talked about their reasons for participation within sport and football. There were
many common reasons for participation that both sexes shared, including the
enjoyment aspect, the competitive element, and keeping fit and healthy. When
talking about participation reasons, Lucy states “I love the competitive and
physical aspect of football as well as keeping fit and healthy; also enjoy being part
of a team and winning.” And Miles expresses “Umm well everything about it really,
the physical side, um I’m quite a physical person, quite out going, I like being
outside, and participating in competitions ...” All of the participants emphasised
family members being influential in them participating in sport, although both
sexes shared some common reasons, there was one main cause of participation
22
within each sex. All three male subjects made a comment towards gaining a
professional career out of football, and this was made available to them due to the
opportunity in men’s football. With Greg stating “… just enjoy playing football and
it’s what I want to do when I'm older …” Whereas on the other hand the female
participants didn’t mention anything on having a career, a common reason for the
females was the social aspect of football. Katie emphasises
“… taking part with
all the girls, having a good laugh and stuff … and the social aspect of it as well.”
Lucy reinforces this by stating “There’s a good social side as well with all the girls.”
4.3
Opportunities and the Improvements in Women’s Football
One of the defining moments in the history of women’s football as highlighted in
chapter two was the decision to ban women’s football teams from playing on
league grounds. Although the law was abolished this still had an effect on
women’s opportunity to participate within the sport of football, and as a result of
this female footballers have had to overcome many barriers in order to be able to
participate within the sport.
One of the themes identified during the data analysis was the lack of opportunities
available for women to pursue a professional career in football. All three of the
female subjects discussed that there is opportunity to reach an elite level in
women’s football in terms of representing their country at senior level, Lucy states
“there is opportunity to reach international level but a career would not be an
option for a female footballer.” This response was also reinforced by Katie “…Ahh
but not for career wise.” In addition to this Lucy also states that the lack of
opportunity is far greater in Wales, “… no I do not think there is enough
opportunity, especially in Wales.” From reflecting upon the literature reviewed in
chapter two, it is clear that England and America are significantly advanced
compared to Wales, and for this women’s generation the lack of opportunity to
progress to an elite professional athlete is lacking.
When reflecting upon the literature in chapter two it is clear that throughout the
history of women’s football, females have always been second best to male
footballers, and have continuously struggled to receive opportunities. However the
23
opportunities available to female footballers have improved, but this continues to
be a constantly changing process. By analysing the female’s experiences it can be
seen that opportunities for female footballers are raising, Tamara states “The
highest level I've played at is the Champions League with the Swans.” From
recent literature it can be seen that Wales created a Welsh Premier Women's
Football League in 2009, from this teams comprise to make the league and of
which the winners would receive “£8,000 in prize money and a place in the UEFA
Women’s Cup next season”. (FAW, 2009). From literature highlighted in chapter
two, it can be seen that development of professionalism in female football is
becoming more known.
From the data analysis Katie recalls that she didn’t have a great deal of
opportunity to participate within football during education institutions “… with the
secondary school we weren’t allowed to play with the boys but we had a girls team
but not enough girls wanted to play, so not really no.” Tamara also backs this up
“Yeah but only as an after school activity.” And the sports usually available were
“Mostly rounder’s, athletics and netball really.” Lucy also emphasised this point as
she states that she could play football but they trained either “after school or on
lunchtimes.” However, more recently there has been as increase in opportunities
available to young girls.
In regards to this Sport Wales (2010) published a research article on Physical
Education Provision in Welsh Schools in the years 2008/2009, it highlighted what
activities were available for pupils and at what age group. Sport Wales found that
there were minimal differences between the percentage of primary schools
providing football as a curricular activity to pupils, Sport Wales (2010, p.2) “with
94% of schools providing girls and 96% providing boys with football”. It was also
stated “At secondary school, clear differences in provision appear. Girls are far
more likely to be offered netball and hockey than boys, and boys are more likely to
be offered football, cricket, basketball and rugby – all competitive activities. Of
these sports, the biggest gender difference is in netball provision and the least in
football provision.” (p.3). In addition to this football was one of the highest
extracurricular activities offered to girls. Linking this information with the data
collected from the interviews, it can be seen that there has been an improvement
24
towards football in younger education, but the issue of “feminine and masculine”
sports can still be seen today.
It could be argued that if more opportunities were available to girls within school
institutions then in hindsight women’s football could have progressed more rapidly
in less time, and become more successful. It has been noted “The Football
Association (2005) reports that with 130,000 women and girls playing in league or
cups, football has overtaken netball as the most popular sport for women in
England.”
(Clark and Paechter, 2007, p.264). Polley (1998) emphasises one
reason for the progression in women's football could be down to the improved
opportunities, as nowadays women generally have greater access in terms of
participation and spectating. However the increased opportunity for women does
not seem to be a significant challenge to the dominance of men in professional
football.
4.4
Views on Women in Football
One area of significant importance to women’s football is how women are
perceived within sport, and the stereotypical views of them. From examining the
data collected and analysing relevant literature, it can be seen that there was
mixed responses on women in sport. Although all participants agreed that anyone
should be able to partake in any sport they wish to, regardless of stereotypical
views. Craig states “I don’t think there should be a line where you can or can’t do
this, if they wanted to play football or another sport apart from dancing then I don’t
see why not.” Lucy also reinforces this point “I would completely disagree with this
statement as I’m a footballer myself I know that women can be just as passionate
about football as they would be about any sport. In my opinion women can
perform just as good as some men in football.” Clark et al (2007, p.264) indicates
that “Although football continues to be viewed as a masculine pursuit, women’s
football participation has been steadily growing.” In relation to the various sports
taught within education institutions, football for both genders is ranked one of the
highest sports taught within schools in Wales, both at primary, secondary and
extracurricular activities, Sport Wales (2010).
25
When drawing upon literature from previous chapter it can be seen that the
amount of women officials in the game of football has dramatically risen over the
past few years, with “Over 20,000 females have successfully attained FA coaching
qualifications (including 150 Level 3 - UEFA ‘B’ - coaches) and full-time women’s
Football Development Officers (FDO) are now employed across the country.” (The
FA, 2010). However Woodyer and McBirnie, (2009) state “that of the 24,000
registered referees, only 1,066 are female.” (thefa.com)
In relation to valuing females as coaches the data established mixed responses
from interviewees, with a split response between participants. Interestingly two out
of the three females interviewed declared that they would prefer male coaches.
With Tamara emphasising “No not really, as personally I feel that women coaches
have a laid back take it easy attitude, whereas men have a more strict and get up
and go attitude. I would respect a male coach more as I feel they have a better
understanding of football compared to women.” Miles reinforces this by stating “…I
just personally I think I would want to the coached by the same sex.” However, not
all the participants felt this way with Craig emphasising “Yeah … Because if they
did the same qualifications and as much knowledge as a male coach then there's
no reason not to listen to them and take on their advice.”
Another topic that arose from the data analysis and recent literature in chapter two
was female officials and how they are viewed in society. It emerged from the data
that there was a clear similarity on views, with all six participants stating that
female officials are at a disadvantage in the world of sport. Both men and women
undertake the same course to become a referee and their qualification is valued
the same regardless of their sex. Woodyer et al (2009) state “We always knew
that we would be in the minority of football officials in the country, but we were
surprised to discover that of the 24,000 registered referees, only 1,066 are
female.” (thefa.com)
However The FA (2011) state “the number of female referees has increased by 21
per cent and The FA launched a specific Female Referees Strategy and Female
Ambassador scheme.” (thefa.com). By creating various schemes it helps to
encourage more women into the world of football refereeing.
26
When highlighting the incident about the female official Sian Massey, who was
publicly criticised by two male Sky Sports presenters Andy Gray and Richard
Keys, both Miles and Greg stated that they felt she was judged on her gender
rather than her ability. This can be reinforced with Craig emphasising that “… it
could be because people are so used to having men officials and men players, but
I don’t feel like there's anything wrong with women coming in and being officials,
but it’s just different opinions.” In addition to this Lucy and states “I definitely think
they are, the incident that was highlighted in the football match the other day
highlights this point as judgement was made based on that she was a woman not
the fact that she made the correct decision.” This incident with Andy Gray mocking
lineswoman Sian Massey, during the clash between Liverpool and Wolves
highlights the discrimination women receive in football today.
4.5
Will Women ever be as successful as Men in Football
From evaluating the data collected and analysing relevant literature, it can be
seen that it is an uphill battle for women to become as successful as men in
football. It can be concluded from the comments that were retrieved from the six
participants that at a young age the opportunities for females weren’t to the same
standard of males. In regards to do females receive enough opportunity in football
now, most subjects stated that they do receive enough opportunity. An interesting
opinion that came from Lucy and Katie’s response is that they both made a point
that a career in football as a female would not be realistic. Lucy emphasises “We
do receive some opportunity but not as much as we would like to, there is
opportunity to reach international level but a career would not be an option for a
female footballer.”
From drawing upon literature in chapter two, it can be seen that women’s football
is expanding. This can be highlighted through The FA launching a Super League
for Women’s Football in England, the aim of this league is allow women to play at
a semi professional level, whilst preparing them for international duties. In addition
to this the Women's Super League (2010) states that the FA is investing over £3
million pounds into the new Super League and there is also talk with ESPN of
some of the games being televised. In terms of gaining a professional career out
27
of football, the Women’s Super League (2010) states that “a club can pay no more
than four players an annual salary of more than £20k.” (p.5). Comparing this
annual wage to a professional male footballers wage the difference is colossal
with men earning nearly thirty four times this. BBC Sport Football (2006) states
that
“Premiership
footballers
earn
an
average
of
£676,000
per
year”
(news.bbc.co.uk)
There is also expansion in Wales for women's football, with The FAW who
launched a Welsh Premier League in 2009, although this league is not
professional it has allowed women's football to progress. The prize includes
£8,000 in prize money and a place in the UEFA Women’s Cup next season.
During the interview with Tamara, many positive points were discussed about how
women's football is developing, through major competitions identical to the men.
She expresses “the highest level I've played at is the Champions League with the
Swans.” She also highlighted the finance aspect of the competition, explaining that
the team won “8,000 pounds” winning the premier league.
During my conversations with the three male participants, all three of them agreed
that if they were a female footballer then they wouldn’t be as successful in football
as they are right now. Craig expresses “Umm probably not you know, I think
members of the public prefer the male game.” In regards to the three male
participants, all of them are looking to pursue a career in football, whereas the
females who were interviewed all expressed that this wouldn’t be an option, with
Lucy emphasising “... in terms of becoming an elite professional athlete, no I do
not think there is enough opportunity, especially in Wales.”
The comments concluded from the interviews showed that gender played a big
role in terms of making a career out of football, most data stated that this would be
an impossible route for women to follow. It was also interesting to note that several
of the interviews emphasised that the game of women's football had made
progress and continues to improve. With this in mind it could be suggested that
women’s football has a bright future and will keep closing the gap on men’s
football.
28
4.6
Conclusion
The intention of this chapter is to analyse and discuss what was considered the
most relevant themes that emerged from the data analysis process. Throughout
the chapter relevant literature has been used to reinforce the thoughts and
feelings of the six interviewees. Whilst analysing previous research relevant to the
topic it was evident that women have received a hindered road to success and
that men have a more promising future in terms of a professional career in
football. This was a common occurrence when analysing the six interview
transcripts.
All the information discussed in this chapter was thought to have the most
relevance in regards to the whether an individual’s opportunity is affected by their
gender. In addition to this it helps to give an insight into the thoughts and feelings
of both male and female footballers, in a sport which is predominantly “masculine
sport”.
29
CHAPTER V
CONCLUSION
CHAPTER FIVE
5.1
Introduction
The current study has shown an insight into the personal views of three female
and three male elite footballers, of which represent a top Welsh club. The purpose
of this study was to explore if gender had an affect or influenced an individual’s
perception of opportunities to become successful in football. This was achieved by
referring back to previous research collected, and gathering essential information
from the six participants interviewed.
5.2
Summary and Reflections
By addressing the previous literature collected and analysing the data gathered it
is evident that women's football has made many improvements and that this is
reflects in the views and attitudes of the study participants. The amount of
opportunities for females has improved over the years and nowadays it is evident
that females have a lot less barriers and more avenues to become involved in the
game. My findings are consistent with those of Polley (1998) who also found there
to be increased opportunities for females to become involved in both spectating
and participation. This is further supported by many reports made by The FA
emphasising the increase in the number of female’s within football through
players, officials, and as coaches.
It can be argued that gender has become less of a barrier within sport nowadays,
and regardless of your sex you can achieve in any type of sport. As cited within
the literature review Sport Wales (2010) stated that “94% of schools providing girls
and 96% providing boys with football.” (p.2) This statement emphasises that
gender shouldn’t affect what sports you participate in, and that all sports including
football should be accessible to everyone.
Both the literature and the data collected emphasis significant improvements to all
aspects of women's football, all of the subjects interviewed stated that they felt
female footballers received enough opportunity within the sport, but on the other
30
hand the nature and extent of these opportunities for males and females did differ.
A common opinion shared by the three female subjects was that it would not be
possible to pursue a career in football. However, The FA (2010) is cited in the
literature review stating the launch of a semi- professional women's football league
within England is classed as a major turning point within women's football in
Britain. As a result of these improvements it can be argued that women's football
today is in a better position than in previous years.
5.3
Limitations and Recommendations for Future Research
It is evident that there is little research on if gender affects a person’s opportunity
(and perceptions of opportunity) to become successful in sport. Upon review of the
research conducted it was evident that a larger scale study could enhance
understanding and provide greater depth into the topic. For this study, a greater
sample of participants could have been used, this would have enabled a greater
variety of information to be collected therefore strengthening the results of the
study. To enhance the study further a variety of ages could have been used for
both sexes, this would provide a greater understanding of opportunity for different
age groups. In addition to this longer interviews and re-interviewing the
participants would have provided more depth to the study. Also to strengthen the
study further the sport of football could have been compared to various other
individual and team sports. For example women's rugby, would it be the same
opportunities as football, does gender affect how successful the women can
become, and would a professional career be possible at this time or in the near
future.
The study aimed to answer the key question, if gender affects your (perceptions
of) opportunity within sport, it addresses various areas which may be of interest to
the study, however the research found and provided does not fit every female’s
experiences within football.
In order to gather future research for this area of interest more subcategories
could have been created, by doing this more subject area would have been
covered. An example of this could be the media, as more research could be
31
carried out to find impact it has on women's football. In addition to this the themes
covered within the study could go into further detail. Another aspect that could be
considered is the possibility of comparing the development of women's football in
other countries, particularly those in which the professional game has been
developed. This it would provide a comparison to women's football in Britain, and
successes or failures can be compared, contrasted and learned from. A further
aspect that could be incorporated into the study is the interviewing of different age
groups, semi professional, and professional female footballers.
32
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39
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
COVER LETTER OUTLINING THE STUDY
Participant Details
Name: …………………………………………………………….
Gender: …………………………………………………………..
Telephone Number: …………………………………………….
Interview Date: …………………………………………………..
Time Begun: ……………………………………………………..
Time Ended: ……………………………………………………..
Interview Duration: ………………………………………………
Hello, my name is Alicia Powe and I am currently in my third year at the University of
Wales Institute, Cardiff (UWIC). Firstly, thanks for agreeing to participate in this
interview study.
The purpose of this study is to investigate whether your experiences and views of
gender has an affect on a person’s opportunity to become successful within sport.
The comparative study falls into the subject area of sociology of sport, it will focus on
vital topics that are relevant to the research question.
Within the session you will be required to participate within an interview in which you
will discuss your personal experiences, feelings and attitude towards certain
elements in sport.
The information gathered from this study will be presented in my dissertation, all
personal details will be kept completely confidential. In subject to your agreement, a
Dictaphone will be used to record the interviews. This ensures that what you say is
accurately captured, and data collection is guaranteed to be correct. When the
results of the study are presented, quotes transcribed from the interviews conducted
may be used to support my findings, but all details will remain anonymous.
Participation within this study is voluntary, and as a participant you are able to
withdraw from the study at any time. Additionally you do not have to answer any
questions you do not wish to during the interview.
Within the interview there are no correct answers to any of the questions asked,
please answer as honestly as possible so that I can understand and benefit from
your experiences within sport. If any sensitive issues arise during the interview, I will
inform the participants that I am not qualified to discuss that certain topic.
Throughout the interview I will be asking questions on key influencing factors such
as, women in sport, gender roles within specific sports, the influence of media, your
own experiences in sport, and your aims and desires within sport.
As you can see from the copy of the interview guide, the interview comprises of a
seven sections. If you have any questions during the interview process then please
feel free to ask me. We shall now proceed to the interview.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns you may have or information
regarding the study at:
Address: 20, Druslyn Road, West Cross, Swansea. SA35QQ
Mobile Number – 07950914023
Email Address – [email protected]
PARTICIPANT INFORMATION SHEET
Title of project: How gender affects the opportunity a person receives in sport
Background
The aim of this review is to identify how men get more opportunity to become
successful compared to the female gender. This review will identify and explain
major issues that revolve around this continuing inequality.
Your participation in the research project
As a participant within this study, you will be required to complete interviews and
surveys depending on the relevance you show within the first data collection.
Why you have been asked to participate
You have been asked to be a participant in the study as you fit the criteria needed in
order to gather information and answer my research question.
What would happen if you change your mind?
You have no obligation to the study and can drop out at any given time.
What would happen if you join the study?
If you choose to participate within the study, you will be agreeing to participate within
surveys and interviews. From here relevant data will be collected and then applied to
the study.
Are there any risks?
There are no significant risks to taking part in this study.
What happens to the interview results of the evaluation?
The data collected throughout the interviews will remain confidential, they will also be
coded for privacy reasons. The participants will be informed prior to the interviews
and it will be stated in the participation form that they can access the data at any
point. In addition to this participants will have access to a copy of the interview
transcript for their own personal viewing.
Are there any benefits from taking part?
Yes, you will help me complete my research question and widen my knowledge on
the topic.
How we protect your privacy:
The transcripts/interviews will not be accessible to other than the research team and
all personal data will be anomalysed by the researcher and only codes will be used
to identify participant data.
Further information
If you have any questions about the research or how we intend to conduct the study,
please feel free to contact us.
If at any time throughout the study you wish to leave, all the information gathered will
still remain confidential and anonymous. You will have written informed consent that
you will be able to gain access to your information. In addition to this you will be free
to leave the study at any time.
Alicia Powe
Contact number: 07950914023
Email address: [email protected]
UWIC PARTICIPANT CONSENT FORM
Title of Project: How gender affects the opportunity a person receives in sport.
Name of Researcher:
Alicia Powe
Participant to complete this section.
Please tick each box.
1. I confirm that I have read and understand the information sheet for
the above study. I have had the opportunity to consider the
information, ask questions and have had these answered
satisfactorily.
2. I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I am free to
withdraw at any time, without giving any reason.
3.
I agree to the interviews and consultation being audio recorded
4.
I understand that I am able to have access to the data collected
from my interviews.
5.
I agree to take part in the above study.
Name of Participant: .........................................................
Signature of Participant: …………………………………........
Date: ....................................
Participant’s contact details
Address:
Contact number:
E-mail address:
APPENDIX B
PILOT STUDY
Pilot Study Participant - Rachel Rowe
Date of interview: 02/02/11
Time: 19:05 to 19:11
Setting: Baglan Sports Centre
Section One: Introductory Questions
(A) 1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
(R) Ah the competiveness, and the trophies, and competitions.
(A) 1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
(R) Growing up with brothers which played sport.
(A) 1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
(R) I’ve been playing football since I was eight.
(A) 1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
(R) When I realised I was quite good at it and could be better than my brothers.
Section Two: About You
(A) 2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
(R) Play football for Swansea and Wales.
(A) 2.2 How long have you been participating in these sport/s?
(R) Since I was eight.
(A) 2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
(R) Question was skipped as it had been previously answered.
(A)2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
(R) I currently play for Wales under 19’s.
(A) How many caps have you received?
(R)16
(A) 2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
(Question not asked)
Section Three: Past Experiences
(A) 3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport
during primary school, secondary school and further education?
(R) Yeah I've always had the opportunity to play whatever sport I've felt like.
(A) Was football available for you at these institutions?
(R) Yeah.
(A) 3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you
made aware of the club?
(R) I played for Treborth because my friends in school told me to go, go training ...
So I joined.
(A) Was that anything to do with the school or was that through your
friends?
(R) Just through my friends.
(A) 3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
(R) Yeah ahhh Swansea Development.
(A) How long did you play for them for?
(R) On and off for about five years.
(A) 3.4 Do you feel you have received enough opportunity to become
successful within football?
(R) Defiantly yeah.
(A) Who do you feel has helped you achieve?
(R) My parents, my sports coaches.
(A) Do you think Swansea City have made a platform and helped you get to
where you are? Or do you think it’s just ...
(R) Nah defiantly coaches and Swans.
Section Four: External Influences
(A) 4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
(R) Brothers.
(A) 4.2 As a sports person, do you feel that there is enough opportunity for you
to progress to an elite athlete?
(R) Yeah the opportunity is there if you want it, to go play for Wales and stuff, so
yeah.
Section Five: Views
(A) As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about
your attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
(A) 5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
(R) I’d value her more because there's not as many, as males, there’s not as many
females as male coaches.
(A) 5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting
world?
(R) Yeah cos men don’t appreciate women doing sport, they think it’s just stupid.
(A) 5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or
do you think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
(R) I think they can be as successful but they won’t get the appreciation that men do.
(A) 5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
(R) Yeah defiantly.
(A) 5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting
world?
(R) The opportunity is growing year by year.
(A) Do you think women will ever be up there earning the thousands and
millions of pounds?
(R) No I don’t think so.
(A) 5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees
and line’s women are at a disadvantaged within sport?
(A) For example the lineswomen who has recently been brought up on the tele.
(R) Yeah they just get stick.
(A) Do you think people don’t appreciate their judgement as much as men.
(R) Yeah they think their always right even though they’re not!!
Section six: Stereotypes
(A) 6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more
suited to males than females, what you say in response to this?
(R) I’d say that was wrong because I know a lot of females that play sports that are
just as good as men.
(A) 6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine”
sports such as dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
(R) I’d say come and watch the rugby and the football that the girls play.
(A) 6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see
sport as valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of
sport?
(R) They have the same values yeah, they think the same and they both like it but
they get treated differently.
Section Seven: Conclusion
(A) 7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have
just covered in the interview?
(R) No.
(A) 7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
(R) Very good.
(A) 7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
(R) I think it’s a good interview to have for the females to get appreciation about
sport.
(A) Thanks.
APPENDIX C
FINAL DRAFT OF INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR MALES
Section One: Introductory Questions
To begin the interview, I would like to establish a few details about your current
involvement in sport.
1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
Section Two: About You
2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
2.2 How long have you been participating in these sport/s?
2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
Section Three: Past Experiences
3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport during primary
school, secondary school and further education?
Probe: Was football available for you at these institutions?
Probe: Was football available for females at these institutions?
3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you made
aware of the club?
3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
3.4 When younger, was it known of females to play football?
Section Four: External Influences
4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
Probe: If you were a female do you feel you would be as successful as you are now
within football?
Section Five: Views
As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about your
attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting world?
5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or do you
think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting world?
5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees and line’s
women are at a disadvantaged within sport?
Probe: If a woman made an incorrect decision within a football game do you think
that they would criticised quicker and more compared to a man?
Section six: Stereotypes
Before moving onto the final stage of the interview, I would like to hear what your
views are on female participation in sport.
6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more suited to
males than females, what you say in response to this?
6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine” sports such as
dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see sport as
valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of sport?
Section Seven: Conclusion
We have covered various topics and relating issues to opportunity within sport.
7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have just
covered in the interview?
7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
Thank you for your time
FINAL DRAFT OF INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR FEMALES
Section One: Introductory Questions
To begin the interview, I would like to establish a few details about your current
involvement in sport.
1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
Section Two: About You
2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
2.2 How long have you been participating in these sport/s?
2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
Section Three: Past Experiences
3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport during primary
school, secondary school and further education?
Probe: Was football available for you at these institutions?
3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you made
aware of the club?
3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
3.4 When younger, was it known of females to play football?
Section Four: External Influences
4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
Probe: If you were a female do you feel you would be as successful as you are now
within football?
4.2 As a sports person, do you feel that there is enough opportunity for you to
progress to an elite athlete so like to senior women's Wales?
Section Five: Views
As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about your
attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting world?
5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or do you
think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting world?
5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees and line’s
women are at a disadvantaged within sport?
Probe: If a woman made an incorrect decision within a football game do you think
that they would criticised quicker and more compared to a man?
Section six: Stereotypes
Before moving onto the final stage of the interview, I would like to hear what your
views are on female participation in sport.
6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more suited to
males than females, what you say in response to this?
6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine” sports such as
dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see sport as
valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of sport?
Section Seven: Conclusion
We have covered various topics and relating issues to opportunity within sport.
7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have just
covered in the interview?
7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
Thank you for your time
APPENDIX D
INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPTIONS
Name of interview: Alicia (A)
Participant One – Katie (K)
Date of interview: 02/02/11
Time: 19:45 to 19:52 pm
Setting: Baglan Sports Centre
Section One: Introductory Questions
(A) 1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
(K) Ah taking part with all the girls, having a good laugh and stuff. Keeping fit is one.
(A) 1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
(K) Ah keeping fit, keeping in shape and stuff and the social aspect of it as well.
(A) 1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
(K) Ah for about fourteen years ... since I was six yeah.
(A) 1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
(K) Ahh I dunno my father played it and my brother played it so I just played along
and got into it. [Laughs]
Section Two: About You
(A) 2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
(K) Ah football.
(A) 2.2 How long have you been participating in football for?
(K) Since I was six.
(A) 2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
(K) Swans ... and that’s it.
(A) 2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
(K) Ah under 19’s Welsh squad.
(A) How many caps have you received?
(K) Ahhh I dunno ... I think I got about three caps.
(A) 2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
(K) Well playing for the Welsh squad is that one?
(A) Yes
(K) And ermm just random awards from the Swans and stuff.
Section Three: Past Experiences
(A) 3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport
during primary school, secondary school and further education?
(K) Umm with the secondary school we weren’t allowed to play with the boys but we
had a girls team but not enough girls wanted to play, so not really no.
(A) 3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you
made aware of the club?
(K) Umm I played for Landore and just through my father. He found out through his
mates and stuff.
(A) 3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
(K) Yeah the Swans ... Is that one yeah?
(A) Yeah that’s one yeah ... It’s the Swans Centre of Excellence.
(K) Yeah that’s the one yeah.
(A) 3.4 Do you feel you have received enough opportunity to become
successful within football?
(K) Umm yeah well with girl’s football you do what you make of it, you have to try
harder than boys do because there's more opportunity with boys ... It’s sexist!
[Laughs]
Section Four: External Influences
(A) 4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
(K) Ummm my brother and my father.
(A) 4.2 As a sports person, do you feel that there is enough opportunity for you
to progress to an elite athlete so like to senior women's Wales?
(K) Ah yeah .. What you mean? [Quietly asks]
(K) Yeah well as long as your good in it. Is that an answer?
(A) Yeah of course, do you feel like by coaches helping you and by everyone
around you, you can make it or do you feel like you’ll never be able to get there
because you play for ...
(K) Ah no well Ian is putting on extra training sessions for the swans so he’s trying to
do his best to get everyone fitter for more chances and stuff.
Section Five: Views
(A) As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about
your attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
(A) 5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
(K) No.
(A) Why’s that?
(K) Cos ahh just women, I know it’s a bit sexist but you’d rather a males opinion in
football over a women's. Just telling the truth. [Laughs]
(A) 5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting
world?
(K) Yeah cos women don’t get paid as much and stuff.
(A) 5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or
do you think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
(K) Ahh no cos its not fast enough and I don’t like watching women's football, just the
men’s. I know that’s a bit stupid cos I play football but its the truth. [Giggles]
(A) 5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
(K) Yeah they receive enough opportunity, it’s just cos its easier for women cos
there's not as many in the world. Ahh but not for career wise.
(A) 5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting
world?
(K) No, only in the like of tennis and stuff but not in football.
(A) 5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees
and line’s women are at a disadvantaged within sport?
(K) Yeah the same reason as 5.1
(A) Do you think that giving an example the women lines referee that was
highlighted on the tele the other day, do you think they were right to criticise
her judgement?
(K) I dunno.
(A) She refereed a Premier League game and she made a call and they
criticised here but it was the right call. They sort of jumped on her cos she was
a woman.
(K) Ahh yeah well that’s a disadvantage, but mostly their probably wrong anyway.
But shows its good luck that she had it right. That’s the thing though init, if your down
the pub with a bunch of boys and you say something their not all gona believe you
cos your a women. That's how it is init.
Section six: Stereotypes
(A) 6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more
suited to males than females, what you say in response to this?
(K) I’d say I agree cos it is, its not more suited it’s just more preferred men play
football.
(A) 6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine”
sports such as dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
(K) Ahh I’d disagree cos it’s up to them what they wana do, and if like a woman
would rather play football than do gymnastics it’s up to them, don’t matter.
(A) 6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see
sport as valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of
sport?
(K) It depends how determined you are and how seriously you take your sports init.
(A) Yeah
(K) Does that answer the question?
(A) Yeah
(K) Yeah it is valuable just depends, as an individual I value it but other people may
not take it as seriously as I do.
Section Seven: Conclusion
(A) 7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have
just covered in the interview?
(K) No I think you covered it all.
(A) 7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
(K) I think it went very well, I put a few smart words in there!
(A) 7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
(K) No I think it’s all done.
(A) Thanks
(K) Thanks Powe
Name of interview: Alicia (A)
Participant Two – Tamara (T)
Date of interview: 16/02/11
Time: 18:39 to 18:49
Setting: Baglan Sports Centre
Section One: Introductory Questions
(A) 1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
(T) I enjoy that I keep fit through it and the competiveness during a game. Also I
enjoy the training regime and social side of it.
(A) 1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
(T) Umm ... My dad was ... My family are very sporty, and my dad used to play
football when he was younger. When I was growing up I always used to watch Man
United play, and one day in primary school they held football practice, I always used
to play with the boys in break time but going to practice was different. From then on I
used to attend football practice every week, and the boys didn’t really care that I was
a girl playing with them.
(A) Were you the only girl to go to practice?
(T) Yeah at first I was but over the weeks more girls joined in.
(A) 1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
(T) Uh, for about twelve years.
(A) 1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
(T) During primary school, the girls never really used to play sport, so I joined in with
the boys, and from then on I used to play football with them in break times and
attend regular training with them.
(A) Ok were you treated differently because of your gender?
(T) At first the boys kept saying but sir she’s a girl, but once they realised that I was
willing to get stuck in they didn’t mention my gender at all. In ways I think I became
one of the boys.
Section Two: About You
(A) 2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
(T) I currently play football.
(A) 2.2 How long have you been participating in these sport/s for?
(T) Twelve years.
(A) 2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
(T) I play for Swansea City Ladies.
(A) Ok.
(A) 2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
(T) The highest level I've played at is the Champions League with the Swans.
(A) How did you qualify for this?
(T) We qualified for the Champions League through playing in a Premier League.
Basically the Premier League is split into two groups, north and south, each group
put four teams in it and they all have to play each other home and away. From here
the winner of the south plays the winner of the north. Last year we beat Caernarfon
in the final, by winning that game we qualified for the Champions League.
(A) Was there any prize for winning, or just qualifying for the Champions
League?
(T) There was a prize fund of 8,000 pounds, and the trip away was all paid for.
(A) Can you tell me more about this sporting experience?
(T) Yeah, Last year we travelled to [stuttered] Slovenia, where we spent eleven days
in total. The group consisted of four teams and in our group we had an Italian team
called Bardolino Verona, a [stuttered] Slovenian team called ZNF Krka and I can’t
really pronounce the third team but its something like Baia Zugdidi. Unfortunately we
lost our first two games but we won out third game 2-1.
(A) The champions League is a high competition, did you ever think you would
play in such a competition?
(T) Nah, never in a million years! I think it was a completely new experience, even
the way we were [stutters] training, it was much more.. [I cant say that word]
regimented and everyone had a serious attitude towards succeeding out there. I’m
glad that we qualified as know I know.. now I know there is an high standard
competitions for women to play in.
(A) 2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
(T) I've won many player of the year, players’ player of the year, and I've won a few
Welsh caps.
(A) What level and how many caps have you got?
(T) I've had four for Boys Club of Wales.
Section Three: Past Experiences
(A) 3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport
during primary school, secondary school and further education?
(T) Yeah I've had [stutters] loads of opportunity.
(A) Was football available for you at these institutions?
(T) Yeah but only as an after school activity.
(A) What sports did you use to play during school PE lessons?
(T) Mostly rounder’s, athletics and netball really.
(A) 3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you
made aware of the club?
(T) I played for Port Talbot boys, I was made aware of the club through my school
mates.
(A) 3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
(T) Yeah I played for Pontardawe excellence centre.
(A) How long did you play for them for?
(T) Seven years.
(A) 3.4 Do you feel you have received enough opportunity to become
successful within football?
(T) Yes I do.
(A) Who has helped you...who do you feel as helped you?
(T) My parents and my sports coaches.
(A) Do you think Swansea City have made a platform and helped you get to
where you are?
(T) Yeah defiantly.
(A) Ok, good! Section 4, external experiences..
Section Four: External Influences
(A) 4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
(T) My primary school teacher and father.
(A) 4.2 As a sports person, do you feel that there is enough opportunity for you
to progress to an elite athlete?
(T) Yeah the opportunity is there if you want it, just depends how much you want it
really, and how willing you are to work hard.
Section Five: Views
(A) As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about
your attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
(A) 5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
(T) No not really, as personally I feel that women coaches have a laid back take it
easy attitude, whereas men have a more strict and get up and go attitude. I would
respect a male coach more as I feel they have a better understanding of football
compared to women.
(A) 5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting
world?
(T) I feel that women are at a disadvantage in sport, as they are viewed as the
inferior sex. In football men tend to take over, this can be seen within the media. The
coverage of women's football is practically zero compared to the men’s. Even at an
international level you don’t hear much about women footballers and their
successes.
(A) 5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or
do you think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
(T) Uhh..Half and half, being a footballer myself I would obviously like to watch
women play at a professional level, but watching the men play is much more
interesting. Men tend to be more physically fit and play a quicker and more up tempo
game.
(A) 5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
(T) Yeah women do receive enough opportunity. It’s a hard process to get to the top
but if you’ve got the talent and are willing to work hard enough then you will become
successful.
(A) 5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting
world?
(T) In regards to football no I don’t think they will ever be up there with the men. Men
perform on a completely different level to women, I do think that women's football is
progressing and is on its way up but I don’t think they will reach the same level as
the men. In other sports women and men can be equally successful this can be
highlighted [stutters] in the Olympics and tennis.
(A) Do you think women will ever be up there earning the thousands and
millions of pounds?
(T) In football I don’t think they will ever earn as much, and I don’t think this will
change over time.
(A) 5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees
and line’s women are at a disadvantaged within sport?
(T) Yeah a complete disadvantage, personally I’d rather a male referee as I feel I
trust their judgement more. Although a women referee is still completely qualified, for
some reason a man seems to be more suited to the authority role. Drawing on my
experiences some women referees who have refereed me in the past have made
some incredibly bad calls, I think this is why I lean more towards preferring men
refs.
Section six: Stereotypes
(A) 6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more
suited to males than females, what you say in response to this?
(T) No I don’t agree with this statement, in my opinion women can achieve the same
success as men in sport.
(A) Does their sport influence their success?
(T) Not particularly, both sexes can achieve the same success no matter what sport
they participate in.
(A) 6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine”
sports such as dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
(T) Aww.. I would completely disagree with this statement. Any sex should be able to
participate in any sport they wish to do, there shouldn’t be limits and boundaries on
certain sports. Personally I enjoy working as a team, the competitiveness and the
fact that I can get stuck into the game, If I compared this to dance then I wouldn’t
have the same passion as I do for football.
(A) 6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see
sport as valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values in
sport?
(T) I think we do, there are many values out there but men and women can share the
same.
Section Seven: Conclusion
(A) 7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have
just
covered in the interview?
(T) No thank you.
(A) 7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
(T) I think it went really well.
(A) 7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
(T) I think this topic is really interesting, and it would be good to see other people’s
opinions on some of the questions asked.
(A) Thank you for your time.
Name of interview: Alicia (A)
Participant Three – Lucy (L)
Date of interview: 28/02/11
Time: 13:00 to 13:07
Setting: Baglan Sports Centre
Section One: Introductory Questions
(A) 1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
(L) Umm, I love the competitive and physical aspect of football as well as keeping fit
and healthy; also enjoy being part of a team and winning. There’s a good social side
as well with all the girls.
(A) 1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
(L) My family has a sporting back round, my father used to play football and rugby ...
I think this influenced me in to being so keen to participate in sport. Also my teacher
in primary was an umpire at the Olympics for badminton. And a lot of my friends also
play sports.
(A) 1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
(L) For as long as i can remember I’ve always been involved in different sports.
(A) 1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
(L) Because I seemed to be good at it and I’m passionate about the sport.
Section Two: About You
(A) 2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
(L) Currently I only play football.
(A) 2.2 How long have you been participating in football for?
(L) For as long as I can remember.
(A) 2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
(L) Swansea City Ladies.
(A) 2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
(L) I have represented my country at under 19’s level.
(A) How many caps have you received?
(L) I've won four caps.
(A) 2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
(L) I was in the Welsh squad when I was younger for badminton, and used to play
table tennis at a district level when I was 17. I’ve won numerous awards at club level
for player of the year and most improved player, and played for under 19’s in
football.
Section Three: Past Experiences
(A) 3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport
during primary school, secondary school and further education?
(L) Yeah definitely, my primary and secondary school always urged pupils to
participate in sport and would support you as well as they could. In secondary I was
part of the school team and we played and trained once or twice a week after school
or on lunchtimes. When I went to college I choose a sports course so we regularly
trained and played games on a Wednesday, as well as participating in different
sports in practical.
(A) 3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you
made aware of the club?
(L) I used to play for my local home side, i found out about the club through school
and my friends.
(A) 3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
(L) Yeah I used to play for Pontardawe centre of excellence
(A) 3.4 Do you feel you have received enough opportunity to become
successful within football?
(L) Yes I do, I’ve always been supported by my parents and school teachers as well
as coaches.
Section Four: External Influences
(A) 4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
(L) Yes, my father has always been passionate about rugby, and as I used to watch
a lot of football with him and because I’m a daddy’s girl id say he influenced me.
(A) 4.2 As a sports person, do you feel that there is enough opportunity for you
to progress to an elite athlete so like to senior women's Wales?
(L) In terms of reaching the welsh international side then yeah there is enough
opportunity obviously depending on how good you are and how hard you are willing
to work. But in terms of becoming an elite professional athlete, no I do not think there
is enough opportunity, especially in Wales.
Section Five: Views
As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about your
attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
(A) 5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
(L) Umm yeah I definitely would as I have had very good coaching from a number of
female coaches and they have the same qualifications as males so in my opinion
they are just as good.
(A) 5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting
world?
(L) Yeah I do, I feel that most of the time women are seen as the inferior sex, men
have always seemed to dominate within the sporting world and are classed as the
better athletes.
(A) 5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or
do you think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
(L) Personally yeah I would be satisfied to watch women play, although I know that
the standard wouldn’t be as high as the men. I do think the sporting world will
always be dominated by men.
(A) 5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
(L) We do receive some opportunity but not as much as we would like to, there is
opportunity to reach international level but a career would not be an option for a
female footballer.
(A) 5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting
world?
(L) In football it’s definitely a no. I think the footballing world is dominated by men
and always will be. As for other sports such as tennis and sports within the Olympics
then yes women and men can be equally successful.
(A) Do you think women will ever be up there earning the thousands and
millions of pounds playing football?
(L) Defiantly 100% no.
(A) 5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees
and line’s women are at a disadvantaged within sport?
(L) I definitely think they are, the incident that was highlighted in the football match
the other day highlights this point as judgement was made based on that she was a
woman not the fact that she made the correct decision.
Section six: Stereotypes
(A) 6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more
suited to males than females, what you say in response to this?
(L) Traditionally sport is a male thing. But the world is changing and over time
females have progressed a lot more in to sport. Umm for being more suited i
disagree with this as men and women can have the same characteristics of strength,
power and skill which is purely individually based.
(A) 6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine”
sports such as dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
(L) I would completely disagree with this statement as I’m a footballer myself I know
that women can be just as passionate about football as they would be about any
sport. In my opinion women can perform just as good as some men in football.
(A) 6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see
sport as valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of
sport?
(L) No as some men do sport for a career where as some women only do sport for
enjoyment purposes.
Section Seven: Conclusion
(A) 7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have
just covered in the interview?
(L) No I don’t think so.
(A) 7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
(L) I think it went very well.
(A) 7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
(L) No thanks.
Thank you for your time.
Name of interview: Alicia (A)
Participant Four – Craig (C)
Date of interview: 18/02/11
Time: 13:53 to 13:59
Setting: Swansea City Stadium
Section One: Introductory Questions
(A) 1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
(C) Umm mostly I’m quite good at football, I enjoy it. And it’s something to do, once
you got a talent you can do it all the time, and just enjoy it as you go along.
(A) 1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
(C) Opportunity, once you’ve got an opportunity, you can get more encouraged as
you go along, influences you to do it more.
(A)1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
(C) About nine years now, nine years in total.
(A) 1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
(C) Umm well when I first started I really enjoyed it and took on from there, and didn’t
really look back to be honest.
Section Two: About You
(A) 2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
(C) Football.
(A) 2.2 How long have you been participating in football for?
(C) Nine years.
(A) 2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
(C) Now at Swansea City Youth team.
(A) 2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
(C) Umm scholarship really, I mean I haven’t really played internationally, but yeah
probably my scholarship.
(A) That's with Swansea yeah?
(C) Yeah.
(A) 2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
(Question not asked as already answered)
Section Three: Past Experiences
(A) 3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport
during primary school, secondary school and further education?
(C) Yeah defiantly yeah.
(A) Was football available for you at these institutions?
(C) Yep ... Yeah.
(A) Um in terms of females did you notice if football was available for them at
these institutions?
(C) Yeah at school there was a girl’s football team but Swansea have a girl’s football
team as well.
(A) 3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you
made aware of the club?
(C) Umm yeah I played for Watford at the age of seven, I was at a young kids
association and just got picked up.
(A)3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
(C) No, no.
(A) 3.4 Do you feel you have received enough opportunity to become
successful within football?
(C) Yeah.
Section Four: External Influences
(A) 4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
(C) By idols or anything?
(A) Like parents, coaches ...
(C) Ah yeah my parents always influenced me to play football, and encouraged me.
(A) Did you have a role model? ... Such as a footballer?
(C) Ah yeah, Frank Lampard.
(A) 4.2 If you were a female do you feel you would be as successful as you are
now within football?
(C) Umm probably not you know, I think members of the public prefer the male
game.
Section Five: Views
(A) As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about
your attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
(A) 5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
(C) Yeah.
(A) Why do you feel that?
(C) Because if they did the same qualifications and as much knowledge as a male
coach then there's no reason not to listen to them and take on their advice.
(A) 5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting
world?
(C) No, not really. I mean obviously there's some sports where women are better
than men but obviously there's more opportunity for men but I do feel that, umm
they’ve go the same advantage as each other.
(A) 5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or
do you think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
(C) Yeah yeah, defiantly yeah.
(A) 5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
(C) Umm yeah, I guess so. I mean there's always women's football teams for every
professional club, I mean the England girls team are really good so yeah there's a lot
of opportunity.
(A) 5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting
world, in terms of football?
(C) Umm probably not you know cos people take a liking to how it is at the moment,
so I don’t think to be honest that women will overtake the men, [giggles] but to be
honest you never know.
(A) 5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees
and line’s women are at a disadvantaged within sport? For example the
women lines man that was highlighted the other day.
(C)Um yeah it could be because people are so used to having men officials and men
players, but I don’t feel like there's anything wrong with women coming in and being
officials, but it’s just different opinions.
Section six: Stereotypes
(A) 6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more
suited to males than females, what you say in response to this?
(C)That sport is a male thing?
(A) Yeah, like sports traditionally a male thing.
(C) Umm I think that’s how it started you know, there's not a lot people can do about
it, if it starts like that then I don’t see how it can’t carry on that way.
(A) 6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine”
sports such as dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
(C) I don’t think there should be a line where you can or can’t do this, if they wanted
to play football or another sport apart from dancing then I don’t see why not.
(A) 6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see
sport as valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of
sport?
(C) In overall life yeah, but in football I would say men have more value than women.
Section Seven: Conclusion
(A) 7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have
just covered in the interview?
(C) Umm give women a chance in football probably.
(A) 7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
(C)Yeah, it was good.
(A) 7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
(C) Nope.
(A) Thank you very much.
Name of interview: Alicia (A)
Participant Five – Miles (M)
Date of interview: 18/02/11
Time: 14:00 to 14:08
Setting: Swansea City Stadium
Section One: Introductory Questions
(A) 1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
(M) Umm well everything about it really, the physical side, um I’m quite a physical
person, quite out going, I like being outside, and participating in competitions ... yeah
so.
(A) 1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
(M) Umm my parents really, my father erm took me when I was little, took me football
training then I loved it ever since then.
(A) Ok
(A) 1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
(M) Umm ... Since I was about six years old I think I was.
(A) 1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
(M) Umm well I was quite good at all sports really in school. Erm but then obviously I
signed for the swans, and obviously there's a better opportunity in football, umm so I
just went with football then.
Section Two: About You
(A) 2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
(M) Well it’s just football now at the moment, yeah just football.
(A) 2.2 How long have you been participating in football for?
(M) Erm since the age of six.
(A) 2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
(M) Swansea City.
(A) 2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
(M) Umm, well this, professional level, is the highest I’ve played at.
(A) Have you represented your country or anything?
(M) Umm, yeah I have yeah, represented my country in the trio nations in Ireland
yeah.
(A) 2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
(A) Umm well you’ve just described your sporting achievements.
Section Three: Past Experiences
(A) 3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport
during primary school, secondary school and further education?
(M) Yeah, yeah. My school was really good for sports, so umm think it’s down to my
school that I've got so far yeah, my school was really good at sport.
(A) Um in terms of females did you notice if football was available for them at
these institutions?
(M) Yeah, yeah. There was opportunity for females in school and stuff yeah.
(A) 3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you
made aware of the club?
(M) Umm I played for obviously a football team, umm through the school mainly,
through the school, told me about the clubs and stuff and through friends, as well,
through friends.
(A) 3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
(M) Umm yeah well yeah football clubs, football excellence clubs.
(A) 3.4 When younger was it known of females to play football?
(M) Umm what what you mean? ... When younger ...
(A) Like when younger was football traditionally seen as like a male ...
(M) Yeah well traditionally ...
(A) Or were females involved in it?
(M) Yeah traditionally it was a men’s sport but there was, there was opportunity for
females as well yeah.
(A) So like at school there was girl’s football teams?
(M) Yeah they did have a girl’s football team yeah.
Section Four: External Influences
(A) 4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
(M) Yeah my father, my father influenced me to go into football.
(A) Ok
(A) 4.2 If you were a female do you feel you would be as successful as you are
now within football?
(M) Umm yeah I think so because I think there was opportunities there for females
and obviously it’s not as much but there was still a lot of umm female sports in my
school and stuff, so yeah I think I would.
(A) Do you feel like, obviously signed for swans now, do you feel that if you
was a female that you’d be in the same situation? By having a scholarship ...
(M) Nah maybe not, umm I’m not sure really I don’t really know ... I’m not sure, umm
the opportunities, what opportunities there are for females. I’m not quite sure.
(A) Alright. Section five is about your views.
Section Five: Views
(A) As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about
your attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
(A) 5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
(M) Ermm honestly I don’t think I would be because umm obviously cos I’m a male ...
I dunno I just personally I think I would want to the coached by the same sex.
(A) Yeah ok that’s fine, its opinion [laughs]
(M) [Laughs]
(A) 5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting
world?
(M) Umm no I don’t think there's a disadvantage cos again I think there's still
opportunity for women out there if they wana go for sporting option.
(A) Ok
(A) 5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or
do you think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
(M) Yeah, yeah why not.
(A) 5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
(M) Umm [sighs] I’m not quite sure, I think they do ... there is opportunity for women
out there, I’m not quite sure if its the same as the men but ...
(A) That's fine.
(A) 5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting
world, in terms of football?
(M) Ermm I can’t see it. I can’t ever see it as ever being as successful as men if I’m
honest.
(A) 5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees
and line’s women are at a disadvantaged within sport? For example the
women lines man that was highlighted the tele the other day.
(M) Yeah, umm yeah obviously it does it does seem that way as if they have a
disadvantage.
(A) Do you think like he made the judgement that she called it wrong because
of her gender?
(M) Umm maybe ... I’m not quite sure, yeah maybe, possibly.
Section six: Stereotypes
(A) 6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more
suited to males than females, what you say in response to this?
(M) Umm nah I don’t think it’s more suited to male ... But obviously if, if your
competitive women and an outgoing women then I think it’s the same sort of, umm
opportunity and that, same sort of [sighs] same sort of ability really.
(A) Ok.
(A) 6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine”
sports such as dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
(M) No I don’t think that’s correct, because obviously you get ... Ah all females are
different, you get some who are more physical than others, so that’s fine yeah.
(A) 6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see
sport as valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of
sport?
(M) Umm what what’d you mean by that?
(A) So like for example, ah a female might think sport is valuable for fitness,
for enjoyment, and men on the other hand might see it as competitive.
(M) No umm I think, think they both see it as competitive and umm both wana win
and stiff. Nah I think it’s the same values.
(A) Ok good.
Section Seven: Conclusion
(A) 7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have
just covered in the interview?
(M) Orite yeah good.
(A) 7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
(M) Umm no not really, I think umm there's opportunity for women. Obviously I don’t
think there's as much as men but I think there's some opportunity out there for them.
(A) 7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
(M) Umm no that’s it, that’s it thanks.
(A) Thank you very much.
Name of interview: Alicia (A)
Participant Six – Greg (G)
Date of interview: 18/02/11
Time: 14:10 to 14:18
Setting: Swansea City Stadium
Section One: Introductory Questions
(A) 1.1 What do you enjoy about sport?
(G) Umm just like taking part, getting to know people, and like exercising and
keeping fit.
(A) Ok.
(A) 1.2 What influenced you to participate in sport?
(G) Ahh just enjoy playing football and it’s what I want to do when I'm older.
(A) Alright.
(A) 1.3 How long have you been involved in sport for?
(G) Ahh since I was about five.
(A) 1.4 What made you decide that football was for you?
(G) Just when I was playing in school and stuff with my mates, didn’t want to do
anything else, and my brothers and when I got like scouted and stuff, I just realised
that’s what I wanted to do.
(A) Ok cool, section two’s about you.
Section Two: About You
(A) 2.1 Tell me what sport/s you currently participate in?
(G) Ahh just football now.
(A) 2.2 How long have you been participating in football for?
(G) Started when I was five, and I was playing for Liverpool teams until I was about
twelve.
(A) 2.3 What teams do you currently play for?
(G) Just Swansea.
(A) 2.4 What is the highest level you have performed at?
(G) Ahh youth level now with swans and ahh had trial for Wales but I was on
standby, didn’t get in.
(A) Ah what level ... What age group?
(G) Under 17’s.
(A) Ok cool.
(A) 2.5 Describe to me any of your sporting achievements?
(G) Umm I was on trial at Man United for a year, been with Cardiff when I was
younger, had trial. Bristol City.
(A) So quite a lot then.
(G) Yeah.
Section Three: Past Experiences
(A) 3.1 Do you feel you had enough opportunity to participate within sport
during primary school, secondary school and further education?
(G) What’s that?
(A) When you were in primary school and secondary school was football
available to you like.
(G) Ahh yeah there was, there could have been a bit more though, played more
outside.
(A) Right ok cool.
(A) In terms of females did you notice if football was available for them at
these institutions?
(G) Yeah but not as much, there was but.
(A) Not as much.
(G) Yeah.
(A) 3.2 When younger did you play for any sports clubs, if yes, how were you
made aware of the club?
(G) Ahh played for my local team when I was younger and that was just through my
mates and just family, and then played for Aberystwyth and I got picked to play for
through the schools and stuff. Just through scouts and stuff really.
(A) Ok so you got scouted quite a bit then.
(A) Yeah.
(A) 3.3 Did you attend any sporting excellence clubs?
(G) Umm well Swansea, Cardiff, Bristol, United.
(A) 3.4 When younger was it known of females to play football?
(G) When I was playing for local league, when I was like nines and stuff girls could
play as well but when it got to the older stages there was nothing there.
(A) Alright cool, section four is on influences.
Section Four: External Influences
(A) 4.1 Were you influenced by anyone to participate in a certain sport?
(G) Umm my brother got me to play football when I was younger, that’s where I
started off, cos just like playing in the garden and stuff but that’s about it really. I
wanted to do it.
(A) 4.2 If you were a female do you feel you would be as successful as you are
now within football?
(G) Nah doubt it.
(A) You don’t think you’d be signed if you were a female?
(G) Nah there's just not enough chance, chances is there.
(A) Section five is about your views.
Section Five: Views
(A) As you are currently participating in sport, I would now like to talk about
your attitudes and opinions you have towards sport.
(A) 5.1 Would you value a female coach as much as a male coach?
(G) Umm maybe, I reckon a male might have a bit more control over a session but
depends how she coaches and that.
(A) Ok good.
(A) 5.2 Do you feel there is an unfair disadvantage for women in the sporting
world?
(G) Maybe a bit in football, as like its more about the men really.
(A) 5.3 Would you be satisfied to watch women play at a professional level? Or
do you think the sporting world will always be dominated by men?
(M) Umm not really but like it wouldn’t be my choice to watch it.
(A) Why do you think that? ... Why would you prefer to watch the men?
(G) Better standard really ... [giggles]
(A) Ok.
(A) 5.4 In your opinion do females receive enough opportunity within football?
(G) Umm not really.
(A) So not as much as like what you’ve received?
(G) Yeah.
(A) 5.5 Do you think women will ever be as successful as men in the sporting
world, in terms of football?
(G) No
(A) Why do you think that?
(G) Umm just think that men get more chance and umm like published more in the
papers.
(A) In the media more?
(G) Yeah.
(A) Ok good.
(A) 5.6 Do you feel that women within the sporting industry such as referees
and line’s women are at a disadvantaged within sport? For example the
women lines man that was highlighted the other day.
(G) Ahh yeah like if they do something wrong they get criticised and then they won’t
wana do it then they will.
(A) Do you think they’ve got pressure on them from the start because of their
gender?
(G) Yeah.
(A) Ok, section six is about stereotypes.
Section six: Stereotypes
(A) 6.1 If I were to say that sport is traditionally seen as a male thing, and more
suited to males than females, what you say in response to this?
(G) What do you mean by that?
(A) So like if I was to say that sport is traditionally male, like only males use to
play it, do you feel that as a male, that sport is more suited to you as in the
power and the strength or do you think that ...
(G) It depends what sport it is in, like footballs more physical ... If it was like running
or something.
(A) Ok that’s good yeah.
(A) 6.2 If I were to say to you women should only participate in “feminine”
sports such as dance and gym, what would be your opinion on this matter?
(G) Umm it’s up to them what they wana do in it. If they like playing football then play
football in it.
(A) 6.3 As you are still participating in sport, to some degree, you must see
sport as valuable. Do you think women and men have the same values of
sport?
(G) Umm it depends in it.
(A) Do you think females just see sport as like for fitness, enjoyment or ...
(G) Umm depends cos like females in football are getting a bit more bigger so they
can get a bit more money in it, so they might just do it for the money in it.
Section Seven: Conclusion
(A) 7.1 Is there anything else you would like to add in relation to what we have
just covered in the interview?
(G) Ahh no.
(A) 7.2 How do you feel the interview went?
(G) Was good.
(A) 7.3 Have you any comments about the interview?
(G) Nah that’s fine.
(A) Thank you very much.