opiatemasses
Opiate for the Masses
All of the contributions on this blog are from final year undergraduate Sport Science students studying at Nottingham Trent University
156 posts
Don't wanna be here? Send us removal request.
Last Seen Blogs
ernestogarrattvines
Ernesto Garratt Viñes
sweet-villain
Stevie 2.0
canutattoo
Felipe Canuto
slimebutts1
SlimeButts
sleepykiks
Sleepy Kiks
Text
Are Stricter Punishments on Racism The Answer?
A league which once belonged to Lionel Messi, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho
When will FIFA, UEFA, and La Liga get a grip and impose stricter punishments!?
The extraordinary racism story of Vini Jr ‘a sport for all’ they say, came to a controversial twist with the whole footballing world coming together in support of the Real Madrid star.
A £50,000 fine, ‘temporary’ bans from sports venues and even a chance of an appeal from Valencia FC to such appalling activities. Really?! The second most watched league in the world with phenomenon stars, who have won multiple Ballon d’Or’s between them in the past and clubs are having the ‘minimal’ action against them?
A new law revised anti-discrimination law coming from the Spanish Government which ironically looks at protection of equal rights and treatment within employment, racism is still infested in the top 5 European leagues from the Koulibaly incident to the Mathys Tel incident, but it needs revising. Substantial change. Not just a reprimand. Substantial Change…
Personal Vendetta
As I am writing this blog, I came to think about how this will make a richer impact than other commentators. I am a huge footballing fan and understand the passion of winning and losing.
Race is socio-political construct which categorises humans into different groups according to their skin colour and background. Racism, meanwhile, is a systemic construct of people’s beliefs to target members of diverse groups such as people who identify as 'BAME' on the basis of their cultural norms and values and the colour of their skin.
Racism can be manifest in different forms, including ideological (views and beliefs), institutional (policies and laws) and structural.
To expand, ideological racism has been described by Haslanger, (2017) as ‘biases or discriminatory thoughts’ towards a human. This form of racism may include unintended interactions (microaggressions) to other groups/individuals. For example, a BAME footballer constantly being asked “Where are you actually from?”
Institutional racism is referred to discrimination, bias and unequal treatment against racial or ethnic groups which is embedded in policies and institutions such as policies and law enforcement. Expressed by Verlot, pg.32, (2002) as being ‘institutional failure’s’ which prohibits discriminatory behaviour against groups and individuals.
Structural racism is a concept that paints how structures such as political, social and cultural systems are disadvantaged. This is combined with history, beliefs, and interconnections. One often cited example is the media coverage on specific players such as a headline to a black footballer with the title; “Campaigning football star Marcus Rashford has bought five luxury homes worth more than £2million” whereas a white footballer is presented as; “Phil Foden has set up a future in Manchester by buying his family a new home”.
I understand the love and passion fans have for their club and country but sometimes this is taken too far with crimes and violence during and occurring after games. For example, Victor Osimhen threating Napoli with legal action over a TikTok video as he was described as a ‘coconut’. Roberto Calenda who is Osimhen’s agent branded the post “unacceptable”. Research by Kilvington and Price, (2019) who looked at social media abuses and the response to online racism, found that players “don’t have the time” to report incidents as they “do not want the spotlight on them” as they want to get on with the game and put ‘that’ to one side. This suggests that the online abuses may not be pursued by players themselves as they do not have the time and effort especially if players are not educated on reporting procedures. This is an apposite perfect example of why stricter punishments should be imposed by football's hierarchy (UEFA & FIFA) on individuals as well as organisations such as clubs and leagues to combat racism off and on the pitch.
Vini Jr was subject to abuse by the Valencia fans in which the LaLiga President came out and ‘apologised’ to Vinicius about his comments to LaLiga needing to do more and the President referring to the abuse as manipulative. According to Bassam, (2020), La Liga is the second most watched league in the world bringing in 4.5m domestic views worldwide giving a solid position in the most viewed league. Several figures from the footballing world have come out such as Rio Ferdinand, Gareth Southgate and Mbappe raising their voices to tackle these disgusting acts.
Fandom and Morality
The notion of Sports washing is relevant when interrogating this incident. Governing bodies such as FIFA and UEFA desire this ‘halo effect’ by combatting incidents of racism in the past with little to no implications on the player or club as they know that football is the most watched sport in the world with over ‘4 billion fans worldwide’, (Sportytell, 2023). Only getting a partial stadium closure as well as a reduced fine, Valencia FC still went for an appeal which morally some people would look with disgust. Fruh et al, (2023) looks at sportswashing as turning the ‘surface white’. The terminology describes that organisations only scratch the surface to make themselves look ‘golden’ while the construct persists in modern day. Valencia FC were fined and their main stand was shut for five games, which I would argue demonstrates that organisations like La Liga are doing the ‘bare minimum’ with ineffective punishments. Incidents from the past such as the Euro 2020, objects thrown at players, strongly implicate that deep rooted problems still exist.
On the other side of the spectrum, FIFA and UEFA support campaigns designed to combat racism such as Say No To Racism. UEFA’s report on their campaign quote that “2,876 matches monitored for racism with 17 incidents followed by sanctions” shows that racism is being looked at and strong actions during the last few seasons have been taken. The FIFA chief Gianni Infantino states “zero tolerance approach must be taken when racism happens in matches at all levels’ after hearing about Vinicius Junior”. UEFA have also held workshops to tackle racism in their road to the 2030 change. The statistic and the report show improvements to the socio-construct (racism) which highlights strong belief to individuals and fans that the fight is on to combat the issue.
Fandom is described by the sports philosopher Kadlac, (2022), as sports fans who love their teams and bring in a sense of togetherness – brings a “pitfall of objectifying”. Sports fans will stop counting their support for athletes’ weak performances” and change their opinion on the athletes. In the case of Vinicius Junior, the fans who were throwing racist insults about, suggests the notion of having too much love and passion for their club which they experience ‘blind faith’ to wrong doings and think it is okay. I do agree with this assertion as I feel that sometimes fans do get carried away, even from my own experiences I have seen the passion of wanting to win but also wanting a fair respectable game. I would rather lose a fair game and fans were annoyed with the result than winning and seeing fans being racist to opposition players to show mockery or abusiveness.
Evaluating the initiatives out there: Unarguably initiatives such as Kick It Out, No Room for Racism and Show Racism The Red Card are worthwhile campaigns which are being strongly pushed by FIFA and UEFA to combat racism.
The statistics below show improvements by these initiatives:
A 38% drop in social media reports, between the 2019/20 and 2021/22 season from Kick It Out.
‘Premier league clubs enhanced different programmes to promote inclusion and diversity across football as a whole’.
UEFA monitored 2,681 accounts and identified 3,057 abusive posts with the removal rate of 48%.
UEFA increased financial investments by 24% to 12.5 million euros to support off field in social domains.
Educational programming on online abuse and hate speech in development with 39.1 million views worldwide now.
Nonetheless, the never-ending conversation of racism needs to be dealt with more affirmative implications.
My viewpoint on stronger sanctions:
Organisations such as UEFA, FIFA and La Liga to push social media platforms and IT technologies to find culprits who endorse hate crimes via internet on fake accounts with the imprisonment sentence as well as ‘name and shame’. – this is slowly making an improvement as social media has become more reluctant to fake accounts by ‘verifying’ email addresses and phone numbers to access the accounts which can be traced. For example, X (Twitter) uses bots and blue check to verify people.
FIFA & UEFA to ban fans for life who are racist during matches as well as fine clubs millions of euros. If the fans supporting that club are found guilty, then ban fans from entering the stadium as a whole - hoping to bring a bigger picture of potential revenue lost by the club with no fans as well as losing out on merchandise on matchdays.
FIFA & UEFA to implicate rulings such as new laws to leagues to fine heavily on cooperate companies who sponsor the clubs and make them reconsider their position for sponsoring a certain club. – this will be done by getting involvement from the league, other clubs in that league, and the government in charge of that country themselves to seek action against the sponsors.
Fans & Non footballing fans to boycott cooperate companies and clubs who are in contractual agreements with footballing clubs.
Fans to promote/reshare posts via social media to call out racists and act – A massive improvement as recently, a Gillingham fan on Instagram was banned and shamed for being racist towards a Newport striker. A Manchester City fan being racist towards three Manchester United players. With the likes of promoting/resharing, stadiums and clubs can see more potential incidents from reoccurring and aid fans to unite as one to combat racism.
What is your take on these stronger sanctions?
Please feel free to comment and give your idea’s/views about combatting racism.
N0992394
0 notes
Text
Sexism In Football: Female Pundits Are Here to Stay
WHAT’S THE PROBLEM
Football punditry, much like the sport in general, has for so long been dominated by men. Regular viewers of Sky Sports, TNT Sports and other sports broadcasters will be used to familiar faces of former professional footballers sitting around before, during and after a game to discuss the day’s event. The likes of Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher have been mainstays on television screens for over a decade and in that time they’ve provided analyses and entertainment for the masses.
Meanwhile, a positive movement during the last few years in football broadcasting is an increased number of female voices being heard. The first big changes came during the 2018 World Cup where Alex Scott and Eniola Aluko shared media duties alongside the usual male outfits. Since then, the two have become regulars both in the men’s and women's game and they’ve paved the way for others like them.
This increase in female pundits arguably is a determining factor in the growing levels of participation in the women’s game and in bridging the gap of equality in football through fair and equal representation. Sadly though, the growing awareness and representation of women in the male-dominated sport comes with its baggage. Many men have taken to Twitter (yes, I am refusing to call it ‘X’) to voice their disagreement over women being involved. Ex-professional footballer Joey Barton, who as of writing this, has garnered 2.8 million followers on the social media platform has been the loudest of the bunch, tweeting ‘Get them off the men’s football. Off the tele. Only there to tick boxes’ and ‘how is she even talking about men’s football. She can’t even kick a ball properly.’ These far-right, sexist, transphobic and racist ramblings from Barton have attracted considerable attention in the media with ITV Football deciding to stand up and respond in support of their female personnel stating that ‘football is for everyone’.
WHY HE’S WRONG
There are plenty of people online who align themselves with Barton’s train of thought. For a league as prestigious as the English Premier League shouldn’t the standard of broadcasting be as good as possible? Football analysis needs to be conducted by knowledgeable and experienced people. At times I personally have doubts whether the major broadcasters have the best in class to achieve high-quality discussion but to level that critique to an entire gender is both wrong and extremely dangerous. Barton suggests that women are not qualified enough to talk about the men’s game regardless of their playing experience. Are the two games so vastly different that the same principles and philosophies don’t apply? If so, then why isn’t Barton voicing his concerns over the male pundits who partake in the women’s game? Ironically, Barton continues to critique how supposedly ‘bad’ these women footballers are, yet by his standards, he doesn’t have the right to do that because surely only a woman can comment on women’s football. His tweets would have you believe that the men are exempt from criticism because they’ve earned the right to be there in the first place. Even if we ignore the fact that there are plenty of low-quality male pundits, does this also mean that journalists and fans can’t have an opinion on football because they haven’t played at a professional level? A pundit being good or bad at their job is in no way related to their gender and if anything, Barton’s views are less about wanting the best quality of media commentary for the sport and are more about him spouting outdated sexist ideologies.
WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Women having equal opportunities and a platform to speak about football is good, actually. The views of Barton and others like him are, if anything, representative of a greater societal problem women face - institutionalised sexism. Like many aspects of society, football is designed by and for men. We see this in the gender pay gap, the inequality of opportunities and the hierarchical structures in place. In an article by Bowes et al (2023), they describe women’s involvement in football punditry as a double-edged sword as there is an increasing acceptance and support for women even whilst they’re working in a culture that is inherently and institutionally sexist, gendered and hierarchical.
People like Scott and Aluko are not only fantastic pundits who offer the same if not more knowledge than most of the male pundits, but they are also vital in providing role models for young girls around the world wanting to play football and their fresh insights and experiences that they bring to the discussions are a big positive in building awareness to the women’s game for both male and female viewers which will help shape a more diverse and equal sport. As supported in an article by Kane from 1988 who described mass media as one of the most powerful institutions in shaping modern cultural values.
Eliminating more overt forms of sexism found on social media will take time but we can start by viewing these pundits not by their respective genders but as the professionals that they are. Fink (2018) found that the focus on women in sports media is rarely on their ability but instead on their physical appearance, femininity and/or heterosexuality. This is an example of the casual sexism that women in sports face every single day, and it’s inherent to patriarchal society and the football industry. We saw this at the 2018 World Cup when ex-player Patrice Evra patronised Aluko by slowly clapping and acting surprised after she made some well-considered analysis on the game between Serbia and Costa Rica. Whilst Joey Barton isn’t to blame for this particular incident it’s just another example of how his sexist views are ingrained within culture and manifest themselves in seemingly innocent ways. These kinds of comments and actions are anything but innocent though. Norman (2010) suggests that sport continues to support the ideology of male hegemony through the continuous marginalising and trivialising of women in sports, and whilst they don’t have as big of a direct impact on societal norms and standards, like Barton’s Twitter account, I’d hate to think about how many young boys watched Evra (a Manchester United legend and a widely beloved personality) and saw his behaviour in any way appropriate.
The road to total equality and diversity in sport is a long one, but it’s not impossible to reach the destination. We need more female representation in football, not less. People like Joey Barton won’t go away anytime soon but the least we can do is ignore the nonsense he spouts and support the women who ultimately got the job instead of him.
N0944992
0 notes
Text
The Hidden Battle: Confronting Gender Inequality in Sports
Sports are societally significant because they have the potential to unite people of different backgrounds. It is also widely accepted that sports can promote physical and mental well-being (Evans et al., 2020). For example, running and swimming have been associated with stress reduction and improved mental health (Malm et al., 2019).
And yet, sports and physical activities - often pursued for the pleasure and satisfaction they bring - also serve as a platform where gender inequalities can become apparent. As a consequence, the potential benefits may not derived by all cohorts across society. Furthermore, in professional sports, while it can significantly enhance an athlete's socioeconomic status, the rewards and recognition are also often reflective of stark gender disparities that exist. As we explore the world of sports, it's critical to examine these differences and in doing so, strive towards greater equality of opportunity and benefits for all athletes, regardless of gender.
Illustration by Robert Littal
More women than ever are playing sports and working in sports organisations, but gender inequalities continue to exist in participation opportunities, and support for athletes. It is widely recognised that gender discrimination exists in sports based on payment, power, media representation and funding. In most sports, it is fair to state that women tend to be paid less than men. As an illustrative example, the highest contract that can be offered to women competing in the WNBA is approximately $221,450 which is 0.44% in comparison to their male NBA counterparts. In stark contrast, NBA teams can offer their players around $50 million. Furthermore, there are evident differences in power that exist, with men typically holding more senior positions than their female counterparts. For instance, most team managers and coaches tend to be men, highlighting the inequalities that exist.
Research on sports media coverage tends to highlight the evident differences in the amount of coverage given to male sport in comparison to sports played by women. It could be argued that gender discrimination in sports representation affects women negatively because it lowers their self-esteem. For example, a study conducted by Cooky et al. (2020) suggests that the number of men in sport is 7% higher than that of the women.
The most prominent strand of feminism in sports is liberal feminism which advocates for equal opportunities for women in sports, promoting equal access to resources, training, and funding, and dismantling barriers based on merit and skill. This perspective forwards that women have capabilities similar to men to participate in sports. And yet as late as the 1940s, it was assumed that childbirth effectively meant the end of a female athlete career. For example, Fanny Blankers-Koen was written off for being 30 years old by British Athletics team manager Jack Crump, deriding her “too old to make the grade”.
Over the years there has been a push for greater gender equality. As recently as the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, there was a requirement of at least one man and one woman per team. This extends to the Opening Ceremony where each participating country is represented by two flag bearers – one from each gender. Later this year, Paris 2024 will mark a landmark moment in Olympic history as it will be the first event to accomplish numerical gender equality, with an equal number of male and female athletes competing.
Illustration by Sebastien Thibault
The purpose of this blog post has been to emphasise the stark inequalities which exist between men and women in the sporting world. By highlighting key statistics and showing what positive changes there have been, I have attempted to shine a line on this important issue.
Now that we've explored the challenges and potential solutions surrounding gender inequality in sports, it's time to ask ourselves: what role can each of us play in driving change? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below and let's continue the conversation towards a future where everyone has equal opportunities to excel and thrive in sports.
N1003651
1 note
·
View note
Text
Breaking Boundaries or Breaking Point? Joey Barton's Diatribe on Women Football Commentators
In the evolving world of football broadcasting, the game's flow is complemented and enriched by the voices describing its details. Recent comments regarding female broadcasters within men’s football made by former footballer Joey Barton has created uproar. As football fans we are not merely spectators, we are active participants, engaging in a larger conversation that helps to shape our experiences of the beautiful game. Interestingly, Barton’s recent remarks extend further than a single conversation: his comments added fuel to existing, wider conversations about diversity. Are we witnessing a necessary evolution in football commentary, or has the push for diversity reached considerable challenges?
What is happening?
Barton’s recent remarks, that began on the social media ‘X’ have sparked numerous reactions across the football community and beyond. Essentially, he is rejecting the idea of women having commentary roles in men’s football, branding this to be part of a broader ‘woke agenda’. His statements are not merely personal observations, deliberately stirring discussion about wider societal change and gender dynamics in the world of football broadcasting.
Joey Barton argues that he’s not against women because of their gender; he doesn’t like the principle of women being awarded roles that are important in men’s football as a way of showing people that they are inclusive. He believes that in football commentary people should be selected based solely on their skillset even if that means that there will be no women.
History of Women in Football Commentary
Sports commentary has had a long history of unequal treatment based on gender. Women have had a tough time getting into commentary for many years, and when they do their contributions are often not appreciated or taken seriously. Old-fashioned, stereotypical ideas and conventions about what men and women should do have shaped people’s perceptions of women football commentators. Barton’s comments fit into a similar narrative from history, where women are kept on the sidelines, trying hard to overcome long-standing prejudices. As described by Ali Bowes et al 2023 the increased inclusion of women as pundits in televised match coverage has been a gradual process. In 2007 Jacqui Oatley became the first female football commentator on the television programme Match of the Day since its origins in 1964. The next female was former England International Eniola Aluko, breaking ground in 2014 as the first women in this presenting role. Aluko notably contributed to the television coverage of the 2018 World Cup, pushing her into the media spotlight.
Women reporters have often found it challenging to get players and coaches and even the audience to see them as reporters first and women second. A study made by Swanson 2009 was conducted where he interviewed female journalists. He found that they “spoke of a love or passion for sports” with the majority playing one or more sports in the past. This discredits the suggestion that women commentators are less knowledgeable, qualified, and professional than their male counterparts.
Has there been improvement?
Over a five-year span there has been an increasing number of female pundits. Looking at the research from David Lenton 2022 he identified that the presence of women covering men’s games, either as commentators or pundits has seen remarkable growth. It grew 5650% from 2016/17 to 2020/21 (from 12 appearances to 690). Two seasons ago (2020/21) saw 2500 male commentators and pundits appearing in all televised men’s games - a difference of 1810. While the female representation has grown dramatically, there is still a huge gap to fill.
Push for diversity
The push for diversity is a vital aspect of progress in the sports industry. It helps to break down historical barriers and provide opportunities for individuals regardless of gender. The drivers behind the push include the recognition that talent and expertise are not limited by gender but can be found in individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Alex Scott is a brilliant example of this. After retiring from football in 2017 she broke major barriers by becoming the first female football pundit at the World Cup for the BBC and joined Sky Sports Super Sunday as the first female pundit. Findings from 2017 found that 88.5% of sport reporters were male which makes Alex Scott’s achievement even more impressive.
Like any significant shift, there can be unintended consequences. As depicted by Burch et al 2023, even with female commentator's obvious expertise they often face scepticism about their knowledge and competence in sports. Additionally the rise of online platforms has exposed them to a wave of harassment and abuse, perpetuating a hostile and discouraging environment. However, within the industry the ongoing efforts to promote gender equality are evident. Gender pay gaps still persist, with female journalists earning less than their male counterparts for similar roles and responsibilities.
Some people support Barton and say that everyone has a right to an opinion. However, many others like me disagree with Barton’s outspoken standpoint. Football commentary and broadcasting should be platforms that embrace diversity and inclusivity. Dismissing the idea of women having roles in football commentary sustains current biases and contributes to the ongoing issue of sexism in football commentary. He pointed out how you need to play football at a high level to be able to talk about it, however there are many talented women broadcasters that didn’t play football at all. A couple that spring to my mind is Kate Abdo and Laura Woods. This makes me question whether Barton’s idea of who is ‘Credible’ is more about keeping things the way they’ve always been and maintaining sexism in football commentary.
So what is the solution? Football commentary has always been opinionated people sharing their opinions more than sharing facts. Fans may watch certain sport shows because they like personalities such as the CBS Sports Champions League Show, which is full of personalities including the likes of Thierry Henry, Micah Richards, Jamie Carragher and Kate Abdo. What arguably makes the show entertaining is that they are brilliant personalities while also reporting on the football. This has nothing to do with their gender which is why I don't understand Joey Barton's sexist comments.
Seeing change in the future
Football, as a dynamic and influential part of our cultural landscape, provides a unique platform for connection, dialogue and debate. Barton’s comments have sparked discussions reflecting the extremes within the football community. On one side, fans unite with a shared goal of supporting one another; while on the other side, you have people's passion which blinds their negative comments and viewpoints.
The necessary evolution in football commentary demands a positive change in fan engagement. Supporters should channel their voices to drown out the negativity. Embracing this shift will not only enhance the fan experience but also contribute to creating an inclusive and supportive environment within the realm of football commentary.
What’s your take on Joey Barton’s Views? Is the push for diversity in football commentary a necessary evolution, or does it risk undermining the credibility of the sport? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.
N0993793
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
Transgender Athletes in Competitive Sports: Striking the Right Balance
“We cannot fit a multi-gender world into a two-gender system of sports.” ~ Dr Abhijit Naskar
Navigating the Field: Equity and Identity in Sports
A fierce debate rages in the high-stakes realm of competitive sports, challenging the foundation of what we consider fair and just. Transgender athletes have thrown established concepts into turmoil, inciting a frenzy of emotions, and generating a pivotal debate on the very nature of competition. How can we balance the weights to create an equitable battleground without undermining transgender competitors' dignity and identities?
We're not just grappling with the rulebook here; we're jumping headfirst into a storm of scientific research, ethical considerations, and shifting tides of society norms. Our era is defined by a growing awareness of gender diversity, but it is also filled with problems regarding justice and equality in the sporting arena. The search for answers necessitates not only open minds but also open hearts as we deconstruct and comprehend the intricate mosaic of perspectives that colour this debate.
This blog is more than simply a deep dive—it's an explosive study of this critical, contentious issue. We're here to shake things up, inspire thought, and gather insights from the many voices at the heart of this storm. Prepare to have your prejudices challenged, your passions ignited, and you join the discourse that is reinventing the very soul of sport.
Where Do We Draw the Line Between Inclusivity and Fairness in Sports?
A passionate dispute rages in the arena of competitive sports: inclusion versus fairness. What is the heart of the problem? Whether transgender athletes should participate under their declared gender identity, a position celebrated as a victory for human rights, or whether any physiological edges could disrupt the delicate balance of competition.
The main question is as important as it is contentious: Can we justify denying an athlete's identity in the name of fairness, or is fairness jeopardised when an athlete competes with an inherent advantage? These are the issues that are causing controversy in sports groups and governing bodies.
Science throws its own curveballs, with hormone therapy research showing a range of results. Some data imply that trans women may be able to maintain large muscle mass after therapy, potentially tilting the scales in strength-based sports.
A cultural change is underway, arguing for the acceptance of transgender identities in athletics. This disruptive wave is advocating for nuanced, data-driven rules that respect transgender athletes' rights without jeopardising the integrity of fair competition.
Hormone Therapy: The Science Behind the Sporting Equality Debate
Understanding the significance of hormone therapy in the world of sports is critical for navigating the inclusion of transgender athletes. This therapy aligns trans athletes' physiology with their gender identity by altering testosterone levels. However, its impact on athletic performance is complicated; while it can equalise certain physical characteristics, variations in muscle mass, strength, and endurance among athletes persist, sparking a continuing debate in sports science and ethics.
Hormone therapy has been shown to dramatically lower muscle mass in trans women while increasing it in trans males, with consequences on performance that are currently being studied. This biological transformation is at the heart of the sports fairness argument, with the scientific community trying to explain how these changes play out in the arena of competition. The goal is to create athletic policies that are both just and inclusive.
The Evolving Playbook: Shaping Policies for Transgender Inclusion in Sports
As the foundation of sports evolves, the inclusion of transgender athletes becomes a policy testing ground. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has developed hormone-based regulations to balance inclusivity and competition, while others have taken a different approach. This policy landscape is dynamic, constantly moulded by the pulse of new research and the chorus of public opinion, with the goal of reconciling the right to compete with a level playing field. What emerges is a patchwork of rules, a reflection of the continuing, intricate debate between changing societal norms and the pursuit of a level playing field.
Policies governing transgender athletes differ amongst sports organisations. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has established criteria based on maintaining a specific hormone level for a set amount of time. Transgender women must keep their testosterone levels below a particular level for at least 12 months before competing in World Athletics.
The NCAA has policies in place regarding the length of hormone therapy. These many approaches represent the complicated balance between inclusivity and competitive fairness, which is constantly shifting because of continuing research and societal developments.
Fair Play or Foul? The Ethical Dilemma of Transgender Participation in Sports
Transgender athletes' inclusion strikes at the heart of sports ethics, fusing modern inclusivity with age-old justice. Society is at a crossroads, rethinking gender stereotypes and sports equality. The essence of this ethical issue is whether transgender athletes' physiological variations jeopardise the purity of fair competition or whether the freedom to compete transcends these considerations. This conflict between tradition and progress elicits strong emotions and calls into question the essence of sportsmanship. As governments chart new paths, their policies reflect a greater cultural trend towards recognising and accepting varied gender identities.
The ongoing conversation is about society's ideals as much as it is about sports, with each policy update and debate expanding our understanding of fairness, inclusiveness, and identity. In this changing landscape, the sports world is not only reflecting change; it is leading the charge, arguing for a future in which identity and competitive spirit coexist.
Trailblazers on the Track and Platform: Transgender Athletes Redefining Sports
CeCé Telfer and Laurel Hubbard aren't just athletes; they are trailblazers who are transforming the sports industry. As an NCAA track and field champion, Telfer broke records and broke down boundaries, sparking a whirlwind of debate over transgender rights in sports. Lifting her way through the Olympics, Hubbard created a watershed moment for inclusivity on the global stage.
Their triumphant and harrowing adventures throw down the gauntlet on the confluence of personal rights and the core of fair play. They are icons of development and pillars of resilience, at the forefront of a cultural revolution, pushing the current norm and steering the discourse on sportsmanship into uncharted territory. Their names are inscribed not only on medals and records, but also on the bold strokes of societal upheaval.
The Finish Line and Beyond: Rethinking Inclusivity in Today’s Sports Culture
The story is diverse and varied from the athletes' point of view. Transgender athletes battle for recognition and respect, while cisgender athletes negotiate a spectrum of support and anxiety about the changing dynamics of the sports they love.
Fans and pundits contribute to this lively debate, their voices creating a mosaic of contemporary perspectives towards gender and sportsmanship. As the discussion rages in public, it becomes evident that the stakes are bigger than medals and trophies; this is about tracing the course of inclusivity in our time's tapestry.
Crossing the Finish Line Together: The Future of Fairness and Inclusion
With transgender inclusion, competitive sports are heading into uncharted territory, propelled by the sails of science and societal change. As pioneering research and a wave of social enlightenment lay the framework for policies crafted with a new depth of fairness and understanding, the future shines with promise. This changing confluence promises a sports world that fully values and embraces the diverse tapestry of athlete experiences.
A seismic shift is flowing through sports, fuelled by a surge of research into the complexities of gender identity and its impact on the game. This isn't just data crunching; it's an important change in thinking that will reshape the very definition of fair play. As the debate moves from the lab to the locker room and finally into the scream of the stands, it's evident that every voice, from athletes to connoisseurs, is redrawing the lines of this vital debate. It's not just about raising the bar; it's about rewriting the rules for the next generation of athletes.
In this emerging context, we might anticipate a more enlightened approach to policy development—one that not only recognises but also celebrates the variety of gender identities within the competitive arena. As this journey develops, the collective goal remains clear: to create a sporting environment that respects each athlete's unique character while adhering to the beloved principles of competition. The search of an equilibrium in which individual identity and competitiveness coexist is more than a dream; it is the template for the future of sports.
Transgender athletes' stories are more than just competition in the big arena of athletics; they are a monument to the tenacious human spirit. This ethos goes beyond performance measurements, representing diversity, equity, and acknowledgment for all competitors.
True sportsmanship is about more than just fair starts; it's about making every race, match, and game a monument to inclusivity. We are not asked to draw divisions, but rather to extend the embrace of the game to all.
Let us advocate for a future in which competition is associated with pride for every athlete and victories represent a collective celebration of our common humanity.
Sports serve as a unifier, bridging societal divides. Participate in this evolutionary leap by engaging in, endorsing, and elevating policies that respect both the integrity of the game and the rights of its players. The footprint we leave today will echo through the stadiums of tomorrow, ushering a new age in sports for future generations.
N1037833
Further Readings
Consider exploring the following sites to gain a better grasp of the intricacies of transgender athletes in sports:
Anderson, Eric. (2012). Inclusive Masculinity in a Physical Education Setting. Thymos: Journal of Boyhood Studies. 6. 151-165. 10.3149/thy.0602.151.
Anderson, L., Knox, T., & Heather, A. (2019). Trans-athletes in elite sport: inclusion and fairness. Emerging Topics in Life Sciences, 3(6), 759–762.
Jones, B. A., Arcelus, J., Bouman, W. P., & Haycraft, E. (2017). Sport and Transgender People: A Systematic Review of the Literature Relating to Sport Participation and Competitive Sport Policies. Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 47(4), 701–716.
Roberts, T. A., Smalley, J., & Ahrendt, D. (2020). Effect of gender affirming hormones on athletic performance in transwomen and transmen: implications for sporting organisations and legislators. British Journal of Sports Medicine, bjsports-2020-102329. Advance online publication.
#ethics#change the game#gender diverse#hormone therapy#fair play#inclusivity#fairness#transgender#transwomeninsport
1 note
·
View note
Text
Sporting Success or Ethical Responsibility: Mason Greenwood's Return to Manchester United
The Mason Greenwood Controversy Unveiled
Football has an unparalleled ability to unite people across cultures and continents. However, like any other realm of human activity, the world of football is not immune to ethical dilemmas and controversies. One apposite incident is the case of Mason Greenwood.
In January 2022, Manchester United’s bright young talent, Mason Greenwood, was arrested on suspicious of sexual assault after videos and recordings were released on social media.
However, despite the damning videos and pictures, the charges against the Manchester United player of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm were dropped in February 2023, leading to debates over whether the striker should play for Manchester United again.
Manchester United’s U-Turn: Navigating Public Backlash
Following this news, Manchester United conducted an internal investigation, eventually announcing plans to reintegrate him back into the first team. This controversial decision received a significant public backlash leading to a U-turn from United’s chief executive Richard Arnold who eventually claimed the striker will not play for Manchester United again.
Women’s rights activists voiced their strong concerns against the return of Mason Greenwood. They argue that a player involved in serious off-field misconduct, such as sexual abuse and domestic violence, to resume his career without addressing the underlying issues sends a troubling message to society, especially in a sport which impacts many young and impressionable people. Female fans of the club wrote a lengthy statement and planned to protest against his reintegration.
The Role of Impartiality
Manchester United fan and domestic abuse campaigner, David Challen, states football clubs should not be making these decisions alone, highlighting the football club’s lack of objective impartiality in investigating a key player with such a huge financial value. He criticises the club’s neglection to consult independent experts who could provide a comprehensive assessment of the whole situation so that Manchester United could have made a more informed decision.
Fan Dilemmas: Balancing Fandom and Moral Obligations
Amidst the news of Greenwood leaving Manchester United, the Athletic conducted a survey of Manchester United fans and whether they wanted Greenwood to play for the club again. It was reported that 29% of respondents stated that he should play for Manchester United again with 61% saying that they would continue to support the club if he was to come back.
The survey responses indicate a real difficulty in conducting oneself as a fan whilst also balancing moral dilemmas. The legal system operates on the premise that someone is innocent until proven guilty. However, in this particular case, videos and recordings appear condemning, whilst Greenwood is legally an innocent man. Fans are then faced with the challenge of reconciling this principle with a moral duty to condemn and distance themselves from potential wrongdoers. Striking a balance between supporting your beloved team and wanting them to succeed as opposed to maintaining ethical vigilance requires careful consideration.
On the other hand, there are arguments to be had regarding the age of Greenwood, who has accepted he has made mistakes, and his chance for redemption and rehabilitation. Jonathon Prynn’s article mentions Manchester United “duty of care” as Greenwood’s long-term employer (he’s been at the club since he was 7 years old) to provide support for him and his victim as he attempts to rebuild his life, although Prynn argues that this should not be in Manchester United shirt. To play devil’s advocate, Greenwood made a mistake at a young age and has taken accountability for it. Is it too harsh to prevent this young man from carrying out his dream? Can he never play football again?
Regarding the ethics of fandom, Archer (2021), whose primary research area is in moral philosophy with a keen interest and expertise in the philosophy of sport, suggests three issues with continued support for immoral behaviour: firstly; fans support the immoral behaviour itself, secondly; their fandom may alter the perception of the faults to favour their idol and, thirdly; acts of loyalty to protect interests. In addition, Kadlac (2022:59), also an expert in ethics and political philosophy with recent developed interests in the philosophy in sport, suggests the notion of having so much love for an athlete or sports team that fans experience blind faith and struggle to acknowledge any wrongdoing.
It seems clear that when these issues occur then we should abandon our fandom, however, it is certainly not as straightforward as that. As a lifelong Manchester United fan and season ticket holder, I have invested a significant amount of time, money and dedication supporting my club which has brought me so many happy moments, making it impossible to abandon the club I love. To an extent, Archer (2021) concurs, suggesting that fandom can make up a big part of someone’s identity, which is the case for myself. In my opinion it would be the wrong thing for Manchester United to bring back Mason Greenwood. However, in such an eventuality, because of my love for the club, it will be difficult to stop supporting them.
Learning from History: The David Goodwillie Precedent
Moreover, with Greenwood performing well at his loan club, Getafe, Manchester United are presented with additional dilemmas not only for fans but for the decision makers at the club as well. Manchester United should look to the incident of David Goodwillie for guidance in approaching the situation from a moral perspective.
The incident regarding David Goodwillie provides an example of how a club has conducted itself poorly in the face of a moral dilemma. Raith Rovers’ decision to sign the striker, who was sued for rape damages in 2017, was a decision based on performance instead of morals. Following this decision, the captain of Raith Rovers women's team resigned, along with the withdrawal of the club's main shirt sponsor. The powerful and immediate backlash from supporters and members of staff in the form of their withdrawal of support demonstrated unequivocally that a football club is about much more than football success (Morrow, 2023).
Conclusion: A Call for Ethical Reflection in Football Decisions
In conclusion, whilst Greenwood has showcased his immense talent and potential playing in Spain, Manchester United must exercise caution in contemplating his return. The issues around the player and probable scrutiny emphasise the need for the club to prioritise ethical considerations and public perception. Bringing Greenwood back too hastily will send the wrong message regarding the club's commitment to values beyond footballing prowess. As fans, we must advocate for a football culture that places integrity, accountability, and ethical responsibility at its core, even when faced with challenging decisions about player participation. Manchester United's actions in this matter will not only shape the trajectory of Greenwood's career but also contribute to the broader narrative of ethics in football, influencing the expectations and standards upheld by the global football community.
Please comment below any questions or ideas; I would love to hear your thoughts!
N0907802
#manchester united#mason greenwood speaks out after manchester united loanee scores first getafe goal#football#sociology#fandom
0 notes
Text
Football fandom: Are the minority ruining it for the majority?
What is it that distinguishes ‘supporters/fans’ with ‘spectators?’ I would argue the difference will help you grasp the notion of fandom and how some people reach their levels of devotion and intense interest towards their chosen sports team. I would define a spectator as a person who can observe sport but feel no direct emotion during or after the event, it will not leave a lasting memory. In comparison, supporters and fans who will personally live every moment while watching a game and have an intense emotional devotion towards their chosen team. Moreover, fandom offers people an escape from the ‘real world’ and allows them to invest their time and energy into something they have a strong passion and love for.
Is the outcome of a football game a life-or-death situation? The obvious answer to this question is no but to many football fans up and down the country and across the world they may not give such a straight answer.
Social media
The morals of fandom is something that has been questioned by many, with various events happening within football to spark these conversations. Examples of this include fans confronting players from their ‘beloved’ team either in real life or via social media, which has been both positive and negative for the connection between fan and athlete. I have found examples of both ends of the spectrum on the influence of social media on the modern-day fan to player interaction:
Positive: Marcus Rashford in Lockdown creating a strong movement via social media in funding children with meals.
Negative: The three players who missed penalties in the EURO 2021 final receiving racist abuse on social media.
‘The fan experience doesn’t stop at the turnstile, it now continues after the match on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.’ (Toney, 2013)
Devotion
Health
A football fans' devotion towards their team is reflected in the levels they go to show their support. Forms of devotion can be shown in many different ways and can cause physiological and psychological issues.
‘Fans who are strongly fused with their team - that is, have a strong sense of being 'one' with their team - experience the greatest physiological stress response when watching a match,’ said Dr Martha Newson, researcher at the Centre for the Study of Social Cohesion, at Oxford.
Dr Martha Newson at Oxford underwent a study by taking the saliva from football fans and found heightened levels of cortisol which increases blood pressure and damages weakened hearts. Cortisol also has increased psychological issues such as it gives people a feeling of impending doom, that their life is in danger, or they are under attack.
Economic
The amount a fan is willing to spend also shows the levels of devotion they possess. In the Premier League the average match going football fan will be spend 13% of their annual salary per season on tickets, merchandise and food and drink on a match day. This statistic doesn’t take into consideration the added TV subscriptions and streaming services to watch football in order to show their ongoing support.
‘With fans now running the risk of being priced out of football, we’re glad to uncover the true cost that fans are now expected to pay.’ Layla Johnson, Regional Manager at Creditfix.
The European Super League
When this situation arose in April 2021, 12 of Europe’s biggest teams proposed to form their own league, leaving the rest of the world of football behind. This caused a huge rift across fanbases with 79% of all fans strongly opposing the idea, 89% believe it’s for financial gain and not in the fans' interests.
Fans began turning on their own teams and questioning their devotion all together resulting in marches outside stadiums and boycotting games as well as asking for their teams to be heavily fined and have points deducted. This shows the extremes of this situation with devoted fans turning against their beloved clubs due to their insensitive actions.
Violence and crime
The role of being a fan can be taken to extremes, with their love and devotion being taken too far resulting in violence and crimes being committed.
For example, this season both West Ham United and Aston Villa had fans banned from European fixtures due to a small group of people causing issues in foreign cities. These leaves a large majority of fans missing out on potentially a once in lifetime opportunity of watching their team play in European competition and also labelling all supporters as ‘hooligans’ even though it’s the minority rather than the majority.
In 2022, Nottingham Forest drew Leicester City at home in the FA Cup - considered to many as an East Midlands derby. With there being a strong dislike between the two sets of ‘fans’ it resulted with fighting in the streets and shops and a pub window being smashed. This left many fans of the two respected clubs after seeing the aftermath take to social media platforms and voice their embarrassment for what they have witnessed.
After the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown (March 2020-July 2021) there was an increased rise in incidents occurring in football games across England and Wales. Such as a 59% increase in football arrests compared to pre-pandemic, hate crime incidents rose by 99% and number of pitch invasions up by 127%.
Seeing change in the future
Sport as a whole is such an influential environment for many and is a brilliant way to connect with people, have conversations and debates on a variety of topics. Fandom as a concept shows the extremes on both sides; on one hand you can see people come together with a common goal of supporting their team and on the other hand taking their passion and devotion too far, representing it in a negative sense by expressing their views via aggressive words or actions. The positive change required in sport fandom is for the people to use their voice in a way to ‘block out’ the negativity by having great conversations which spark ideas and discussions across groups of people.
N1021356
#Football #PremierLeague #Englishfootball #Fans #Supporters #Fandom #Devotion #EuropeanSuperLeague #Violence #SocialMedia
10 notes
·
View notes
Text
Breaking the Silence: Addressing the Challenges in Gymnast Welfare
Gymnastics has become one of the most regarded Olympic sports, however behind the success there is an abundance of disregarded welfare issues.
We have all heard the remarkable accomplishments from the likes of Jessica Gadirova and Claudia Fragapane, you believe they are superheroes of the sport; they are so strong nothing can bring them down. But in reality, the toughest of athletes are the most vulnerable to mental health issues (34% with clinically elevated depression) for reasons such as the high demand of training and the need for the ‘perfect body’.
What is really happening?
‘Aesthetic’ sports expect athletes to have ‘perfect’ bodies. This is reinforced from a young age; the constant demands from coaches have resulted in cases of body dysmorphia.
Numerous testimonies, from ex-gymnasts, have come to light regarding the poor treatment they received that have resulted in some type of mental health issue. Coaches pushing athletes to achieve success has been shown to negatively impact the gymnasts both physically and mentally.
One of the most prevalent mental health problems in gymnastics is eating disorders, in particular anorexia athletica. Obsessive attitudes towards eating are a common theme among young gymnasts (16.3% of competitive gymnasts indicated disordered eating), having constant thoughts about their diet and the impact this will have on their body.
Nicole Pavier is a name that sparks interest within this field. She reinforces the fear of gymnasts being able to speak out about the battles they are facing while they are in the sport, and whether it is going to be taken seriously. She is an apposite example, highlighting her concerns 10 years after first developing her eating disorder. Nicole has spoken out about the social pressures and the anxiety of putting on weight and the worry of how her coaches were going to treat her, or more likely punish her.
It is widely acknowledged that coaches can be controlling over gymnasts and will go to any extent in the pursuit of success. This leaves gymnasts in the fear of being physically or even mentally hurt. UK Sport have widely explored this issue and have published The Whyte Review regarding the allegations and mistreatment of gymnasts.
But has there been any improvement?
As noted, an increasing number of former gymnasts have opened up about their own battles with mental health. Is there any hope of combating this?
British Gymnastics finally appear to be acknowledging the scale of the issue; this year have made some reassuring announcements to manage the amount of mental health issues in the sport. Most recently has been the announcement to ban coaches from weighing gymnasts.
British Gymnastics has also introduced the #BeTheChange campaign with the aim to reinforce the importance of athlete welfare as well as ensure an understanding of what is and what isn’t acceptable in the sport for all stakeholders (parents, coaches, gymnasts etc.)
This is a promising step forwards because they are outlawing something that is contributing towards the development of eating disorders and abusive coaching. However, this alone will not repair the lasting impact on gymnasts that have suffered in the sport.
The future of athlete welfare
The British Gymnastics chair insists that an independent body should be implemented to support athletes’ welfare across all sports. This will provide a central system for sporting welfare issues and cut costs for individual governing bodies that are currently spending thousands or even millions on prominent issues – but is one individual body capable of supporting such a wide range of sporting welfare?
Whilst again this is an encouraging suggestion in improving welfare in the sporting community, it must be noted that the journey of athlete welfare is ongoing. British Gymnastics must still take responsibility for their sport. They must continue to raise awareness of specific welfare issues within their sport and create an empowering environment for athletes to thrive in the sport.
N1002090
Have an impact on the future of gymnast’s welfare:
If you feel passionately about the issues discussed, visit the Gymnasts For Change website.
Gymnasts For Change is a global network ran by current and former stakeholders of the sport that are enthusiastic about supporting and improving welfare issues in gymnastics. On the website you can read and learn more about the prominent issues, in addition to being able to get involved and donate to have your own impact on supporting the future of gymnast welfare.
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
Should children be banned from playing football?
Football is the most popular children’s sport: 3.35 million children participate regularly in grassroots leagues. FA guidance in 2020 advised coaching staff to reduce the number of times that children under the age of 12 headed the football within training sessions however there were no restrictions during game play.
There is also an extension of this rule where Scottish professional footballers are to be banned from heading the ball the day before and the day after football games due to their safety and have also been told to limit access within training sessions
As a keen footballer, I know that heading is an integral part of the sport. However, there are concerns that frequent heading can have long-term effects on brain function. This begs the question if parents knew the potential risks that their child faced when playing football, would they be more likely to encourage them to take-up a non-contact sport?
A common consequence of head injuries is Chronic Traumatic Encephalophathy (CTE) which is a disease that is caused by repeated impacts to the head. It is also known as a form of dementia and a condition which is irreversible.
Taking hits to the head is bad for your health at whatever age it occurs. Crucially however, the age of first exposure and total exposure increases the risk for brain health. Thus, the younger that children are exposed to hits to the head and if this is a constant in their lives as they move into adulthood, the more likely they are to develop brain and neurodevelopmental diseases.
If heading the ball was banned within children’s football, then this would cause a change in rules where an indirect free kick would be awarded to the opposing team if a player deliberately headers the ball. This would also take an extremely long time to ensure that all teams and leagues adhered to the new rules.
The most common form of head injury in football is an elbow to the head closely followed by heading duels which is one of the reasons why the FA’s guidance for banning heading the ball in training sessions will not help to reduce injuries within the sport. So, the question isn’t whether children should be banned from playing football. It’s about the rules of football and how changes in the laws of the game concerning elbow use could impact thousands of young people and adults when playing the sport.
Please use the link below for any questions or comments!
N1009890
0 notes
Text
Is fandom bigger than football?
Football fandom has its highs and lows. Conversely, excessive fandom can tarnish the sport. This issue came to the fore recently at a European fixture at Villa Park.
30th November 2023, Aston Villa versus Legia Warsaw - a night of history building for the ‘Villans’. Yet the immoral behaviours of a select group of opposing fans, dimmed the light on proceedings. Pre-game planned and targeted Violence struck fear and uncertainty to the safety of those involved.
This season alone, there has been similar issues seen at the Newcastle versus PSG fixture as well as AC Milan in their home Champions League game. This pattern of behaviour is cause for concern in the running of European competitions.
In this intense environment, I’ve learnt to appreciate that acting critically as a fan is the idyllic way to express emotions. A critical fan is one who exercises their loyalty to a team or individual, it can involve ‘attempting to change your team or fellow fans for the better.’
Some fans act critically in a space of passion and unity, binding individuals together. However, not all as seen with the examples above. This raises the question – where is the change in their behaviours going to come from?
A catalyst for resulting actions
Current unruly behaviour in sports stadia is a catalyst for so many contemporary issues within football such as hooliganism, misogyny and violence. This, I believe, is why the microscope should be targeted towards addressing excessive spectatorship in the hope resulting issues can be tempered.
Integrity: a guide to follow
Individual integrity is a fundamental cog in a progressive society. Yet the actions we saw at Villa Park suggest there’s a negligence by some to act morally in a shared space. This shared space or Imagined community of horizontal unity, is a great way to depict how actions in a public setting should take into consideration of those around.
Can fandom exist without getting out of control? It is in my contention that until there’s widespread awareness of the issues outlined, there won’t be any significant change.
A deep-rooted matter
We know that examples of unrestrained fandom are not just of present times. The impact of traditions and role models has only seemed to expose and encourage younger generations to express negative behaviours. This is why I call for change and action to limit the future impact of unethical behaviour within football.
Spectatorship is intense due to its embedded interest. However, the Villa Park example fails to accept that affiliation and devotion is an acceptable reason to act un-morally.
It seems as the stage grows, as the stakes increase, the acts of loyalty by fans are in danger of taking over the sporting event itself. Without digesting into more examples, I take you back to the England Euros Final where the actions of individuals eclipsed this event. I ask, will excessive fandom always have a damning societal effect?
Sportswashing
Football is commonly characterised as being about passion, togetherness and community. These are the values that should be upheld and celebrated, rather than the unruly behaviours that shine a negative light onto the game.
Minimising and normalising unjust fans' actions turns the shoulder on fronting this current issue within football. This ‘glossing’ over of repetitive negative actions, begs the question – can there ever be a complete control of unmoral behaviours within the sport?
A fan’s perspective
Camaraderie. inclusion. Escape. Passion. These words encapsulate what it means to be a supporter. Spectatorship brings a sense of belonging, it’s a form of escapism.
However, this escapism has its dangers - the excessive loyalties manifest at Villa Park, resulted in violence and the re-emergence of the negative fan stereotypes that exist within football, such as: misogyny, aggression and abuse. How would you feel knowing your safety is uncertain when attending these matches, especially European ones?
Why now and where next?
The recent examples of excessive fandom re-iterates the notion that this is a current and ongoing issue that needs widespread attention. By increasing awareness of this issue, my hope is that we can help put the focus on what it means to be a critical fan. By doing this I believe there can be a greater emphasis on enjoying the game and appreciating those around us to bind fandom and football in a more progressive society.
Do you agree that tackling excessive fandom, could stimulate a positive response for other current issues within football such as sexism, racism, and violence?
N0981409
12 notes
·
View notes
Text
Exposing the Exploitation of College Athletes
Imagine coming to work every day, risking significant bodily harm, generating hundreds of millions of dollars every year, but not receiving any kind of pay, would you stay in the job? This, in many cases, is the life of a college athlete. Modern slavery is defined as “when an individual is exploited by others, for personal or commercial gain”. So, I ask you, is this any different?
Student athletes are demanded so much of them and are the heart and soul of a billion-dollar market, but unlike anyone else working within college sports, they’re the only ones who don’t receive a slice of the pie. The question is, do they deserve to?
This blog will analyse the various aspects of this controversial topic and look at the long fight college athletes have had for proper compensation.
What is the NCAA?
The National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) is the governing body for college sports and athletes in the USA and Canada. The member-led organisation is responsible for the competition and eligibility rules for intercollegiate athletics. It was formed in 1906, and consist of 1,100 member schools, representing more than 500,000 athletes. The NCAA states it is “dedicated to the well-being and lifelong success of college athletes”, but how dedicated are they really?
A Brief History of the NCAA
How Popular is College Sports?
In 2022, the NCAA made $870 million in TV revenue alone. 14.3 million viewers tuned in to watch the 2023 March Madness Basketball Championship game, which is more than the number who tuned in for the final round of the 2023 Masters Golf Championship. In 2020/21, the NCAA awarded over 152,000 athletic scholarships.
In the USA, college sports are often just as popular as their professional counterparts. For example, the largest stadium In College American Football is the University of Michigan’s 107,601-seater stadium. This is 25,101 more seats than the largest stadium in the NFL: the New York Jets and New York Giants shared home, MetLife Stadium. College fans are also among some of the most dedicated in the world. In 2022, fans of Indiana University were seen to be waiting outside their stadium 24 hours before their big basketball game versus the University of North Carolina to secure tickets.
As you can see, college sports is a huge industry. The athletes are the centre of this popularity and are the reason so much revenue is able to be generated. Therefore, it seems only logical that the athletes should be compensated, especially when you see the sacrifices they make.
Leaving it all on the field, for what?
All college athletes make tremendous physical sacrifice on their journey through college. In the NCAA there are 20,718 American football injuries a year, with 841 of them being spinal injuries. For some, these injuries can be life-changing…
In 1955, Ray Dennison suffered a head injury, and later died, while playing in an American football game for Fort Lewis A&M. When his widow applied for workmen’s compensation benefits, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled against Dennison’s widow, and said they weren’t eligible for benefits because the college was “not in the football business”. This isn’t just an issue of the past, more recently, when Rutgers player Eric LeGrand suffered a paralysing spinal cord injury in 2010, and there have been so many more examples of players suffering life-changing injuries throughout the history of college athletics, showing how this is a ever-present issue, and a constant risk.
Incidents and court cases like these coined the term ‘student athlete.’ This term was deliberately ambiguous. They weren’t just ‘students’, to not understate their athletic obligations, but they also aren’t just ‘athletes’, which might imply they are professionals. This means universities can forgive athletes for not meeting academic standards, but also are not required to provide compensation for any more than the cost of their studies. This meant the exploitation could continue. Colleges could keep using these young people for their financial gain and could continue not providing them with the compensation they deserve.
It is too easy for the NCAA to exploit these athletes. They demand total commitment and complete allegiance to the sport. But if they’re hurt during this commitment, the organisation can claim you’re just a student, toss you aside, with insufficient support and no help, to bring in the next man.
Ed O’Bannon vs NCAA
In 2009, a cornerstone was turned in the fight against the NCAA. Ed O’Bannon, UCLA Basketball star, was visiting a friend when his friend’s son shouted “Ed, you’re in my video game!” O’Bannon was furious. No one had asked his permission, and he was certainly not paid for his likeness being used.
O’Bannon lawyered up and sued the NCAA, alleging antitrust law violations, by preventing college athletes from earning money from licensing opportunities. This lawsuit generated enormous publicity and discussion and was the first major blow to the NCAA’s amateurism regime, and the first step in a long walk for justice.
The Breakthrough
In 2021, college football was changed forever. College sports has been strictly amateur since 1869. But for the first time, players can now legally put some money in their pockets.
NCAA athletes can now earn money through business ventures, without jeopardising their eligibility, thanks to the changes in the NIL rules. The NIL rule changes allow players the right to sell their name, image and likeness, and profit off themselves. They are also now able to endorse, promote and advertise businesses. Although, this relies on the athlete’s ability to monetise themselves, and is definitely not the same as them receiving a salary.
This meant that players can financially benefit from their fame, giving them some security. Should they suffer a life-changing injury, they could have financial support, which they have not had until now. But is it enough? Do they not deserve their share of the revenue? Do they not deserve to be treated as athletes?
Where is the fight going?
To play devil’s advocate, some may say the awarding of athletic scholarships to athletes is sufficient payment for their services. However, this is not unique to sports. Universities offer academic scholarships for a variety of different disciplines, with a lot of these being much more secure than athletic scholarships. If a player gets injured, they risk losing their funding, and will be cast away, with no financial support from the university that at one point hailed them as heroes.
There has been a long line of people who have contributed to college athlete’s fight for compensation, and the fight is still ongoing. In December 2023, three college athletes, from American football and basketball, have once again sued the NCAA over lack of pay. Martyrs have risked their bodies, their livelihoods and even their lives. You will watch these athletes compete, fight and risk everything on the television for your entertainment, and they deserve to be compensated, and they deserve to be supported, even beyond their collegiate lives, for the sacrifice that they make, and the value their sacrifice brings.
N1016902
If this topic has interested you, and you would like to read more, here are some articles I recommend reading:
https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA322563607&sid=googleScholar&v=2.1&it=r&linkaccess=abs&issn=15439518&p=AONE&sw=w&userGroupName=anon%7E5a33b62b&aty=open-web-entry
https://heinonline.org/HOL/Page?handle=hein.journals/tndl65&div=16&g_sent=1&casa_token=pYsfzste_PYAAAAA:4DooaR9EWLHJKn6bUyGPN4Tcw8OYrJxh5Qt2i9YWNibuedrnfYMnoWN3wfcUs5S-V3r9tXPQ&collection=journals
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicolekraft/2023/08/21/why-the-public-strongly-supports-paying-college-athletes/
9 notes
·
View notes
Text
What would you do if you knew this sooner? Children's safety in sport
In a recent eye-opening lecture, the topic of children playing contact sports was brought to my attention. The lecturer, Jack Hardwicke, deserves commendation for his dedicated work in exploring the realm of safety in contact sports and the issues around CTE. Given my own experience in sports coaching for primary school children, the topic resonated, and this prompted a deeper reflection on the importance of ensuring the well-being of young athletes.
The societal norm surrounding contact sports, despite their impact on the brain, has long been overlooked. The prevalence of concussions in athletes, with 3.8 million concussions occurring annually in the U.S., raises serious concerns about the ethical and healthy practice of contact sports.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a disease resulting from repeated head impacts, is now affecting younger individuals. This irreversible form of dementia should be a cause for alarm, especially considering the lack of a cure. Recently, there has been a notable surge in research focused on CTE, particularly in relation to younger athletes, highlighting the urgent need for understanding and preventive measures.
Head impacts pose significant risks to health, as no level of impact can be considered safe. The age at which individuals first experience impacts and the exposure they endure amplify the likelihood of developing brain health issues and neurodegenerative diseases. Given these concerns, it prompts a critical question: Why do we permit contact sports in physical education programmes for individuals aged 10 and over.
The physical education curriculum plays a crucial role in exposing children to contact sports, but another question arises: are we allowing or encouraging them? Growing up, participation in physical education often felt obligatory, leaving little room for informed consent. Should sports like school rugby be compulsory?
Considering that the brain continues to develop into one's mid-to-late 20s, exposing children to the risks of serious concussions can have lasting adverse effects. This raises the question of why we permit children to engage in contact sports without proper informed consent, especially when we have age restrictions for various other activities. For example, to vote, to drive a car, to watch certain movies, etc. The inconsistency is striking; we insist on age-related guidelines for activities such as voting, driving a car, and even watching certain movies. So, I believe, it's time to critically examine the rationale behind this disparity and advocate for the safeguarding of our children's neurological well-being.
Safety equipment, while seemingly a solution, falls short in providing adequate protection. Even cushioned helmets cannot fully protect the brain from potential trauma. The argument that physical education teachers are trained to handle concussions does not address the fundamental issue of preventing brain injuries in the first place. An article that was insightful over this issue was arguing what schools need to know head injuries that are caused by contact sport.
A possible solution lies in revaluating our priorities. We need to move away from prioritising contact sports over the well-being of children's developing brains. While sports undeniably offer numerous advantages such as socialisation, promoting physical activity, and encouraging healthy competition, it is crucial for adults to discern between enjoyable activities and those sports that inherently jeopardise the well-being of children.
Proposing a bold statement, children should not be allowed to play contact sports until the age of 18, when they can provide informed consent regarding the associated risks of issues like CTE and concussion. There is now compelling evidence to shift societal norms around contact sport within children and the upcoming movement towards protecting children from brain injuries.
Would you let a child run repeatedly into a wall? Knowing the implication covered in this blog, I’m intrigued to know what you think.
N0915145
11 notes
·
View notes
Text
Debunking the myth of the level playing field: exploring the notion of equality in English school hockey
England Hockey’s U16 squads were announced recently for the 2023/24 season. Of those selected 80% are privately educated.
On this critical issue the governing body, GB Hockey, are seemingly silent. This blog seeks to address this, highlighting the stark disparities which exist in hockey, as well as proposing realistic solutions. This is a discussion on the challenges hockey faces, where acknowledging the problem is an important first step towards future change.
Firstly, how do we know there is a problem?
Previous blogs on this subject have tended to cite statistics, illustrating the numbers of privately educated athletes representing Great Britain at past Olympics. Other blogs have also referenced Ofsted and their acknowledgement in previous years of this issue which led to the labelling of state school competitive sport as “average at best”. Evidence suggests this gap has narrowed but, not sufficiently to claim that the problem is solved.
Why does this problem exist?
Past research has identified a distinct difference in outlook between private and state schools which contributes to this disparity. Public schools traditionally use sport for character development and leadership training, in comparison to state schools which use sport more for health and general recreation. This Difference in attitude towards sport has a significant impact on the quality of delivery as well as the number of those participating.
State schools typically have only basic facilities at their disposal and have limited access to the high quality astroturf surfaces required to train and play competitive hockey. Moreover, they would struggle with the costs of providing underprivileged students with the sticks and specialist footwear needed for the game. This all limits the opportunities for students.
In stark contrast, private schools, such as Wellington College (Berkshire, England) offers its pupils ‘16 rugby pitches, two floodlit Astroturf pitches, a state-of-the-art sports hall, 22 hard tennis courts, 12 cricket pitches, an athletics track, two lacrosse pitches, six netball courts, a shooting range, and a nine-hole golf course'.
Sports facilities on this scale unarguably contribute significantly to the likelihood that already privileged athletes from private schools, will succeed at the highest level. Indeed, many privately educated athletes, including those within the England and Great Britain squads, are more likely to benefit from specialist and supportive coaching throughout the players development. They are often educated in smaller PE lessons with lower teacher-pupil ratios. This enables teachers to focus their time on developing individual athlete success, which is highly advantageous within the elite sport context as there is greater potential for student preparation and performance improvement in competitions.
There is one difference that is obvious, yet also possibly the hardest to provide a solution to. Parents of privately educated children typically have enough financial freedom to facilitate a more professional sporting environment for their children which means their opportunities increase. This is often combined with the ability to afford better quality training and equipment, along with greater accessibility to traveling for training and competition. Overall, whether we like to admit it or not, more money equals a foot in the door and that means the chances of progressing to elite levels are heightened.
These are not all of the differences but the most obvious ones to me.
This is particularly prominent and clear in my sport as a hockey player.
This angers me as talent is being disregarded or even wasted!
Possible interventions for this problem?
UK sport has acknowledged the gap across all sports, which is positive for the future. The new ‘talent identification and performance pathway scheme’ has since been introduced which looks to find and nurture children at an early age and therefore increases accessibility to sport and means that the talent pool for British sport is as wide as possible. This scheme is a perfect example of a positive shift towards better equality within school sport.
There is no simple fix, do not get me wrong. State schools are never going to be able to generate the amount of funding required to compete with some public schools. However, just by increasing exposure to diverse school sports experiences, it could enhance equal opportunities for young athletes. Introducing mixed school competitions could be a step forward, promoting more challenging and regular competition and motivating aspiring hockey enthusiasts.
Partnerships between schools and sports clubs for general sport have also been the focus for the government for a long time now in order to drive an increased interest for children with less opportunity which I believe is a really positive move as undoubtedly over time this will drive an increased diversity amongst high performance sports teams in the future.
An example specifically to hockey would be the new programme set up between, National League club Bath Buccaneers and its local state schools. A new outreach program, led by the mother of an under-12 state school player, has been established. The goal is to promote hockey in state schools, demonstrating its accessibility and the growing opportunities. This form of initiative holds great promise, and I believe that overtime it will become attainable for other clubs, through mutually beneficial partnerships between clubs and schools, to replicate the model across the country which could lead to a brighter and more fair future for the sport.
This is an issue that needs action now. Please help by sharing this blog to help spread the message.
N0902768
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
Is football really what we think it is? The need for ambiguity
‘Football’, The most frequently played and watched sport across the globe, but why are so many naive to the influence it has over society?
Football has been used as an instrument to enforce ideologies and beliefs in cities and nations worldwide. For the last century, we have witnessed the exponential growth of football and the tight grip it has on people that love the game. World leaders have grown to view the sport as an effective tool for displaying their power and dominance over societies. Alongside this, football directors came to understand the value of globalizing their businesses and reaped the rewards along the way.
By taking a glance into our own back garden, we can see how Premier League clubs have exploited both worldwide and local supporters with their aggressive marketing techniques. The demand to watch and support English football, which is seen by many as the most competitive and entertaining league, is high, but what has been provided from the clubs that fans love so much? Television rights and merchandise prices that have reached entirely new heights, and a relatively strong relationship forming between football and commercialisation that seems to go hand in hand. It may even raise the question of whether one is managing a club or a corporation at this moment in time.
Image sourced from: https://www.freepik.com
Consumerism and sport have merged into one overtime, especially in football. Merchandise is something every loyal supporter believes they need to own, making them feel just that little more attached to the club that they support. Football clubs and merchandise suppliers release new garments frequently; making it more challenging every season for fans to keep up to date with the latest jersey on sale, which is almost an impossible mission for some. Clubs promote the need to purchase new style overpriced jerseys with large social media campaigns endorsed by the top athletes at the club, seemingly trying to take from their supporters’ pockets. Loyal support just doesn’t seem to be enough anymore. Why are football shirts so expensive? | FOOTY.COM Blog Arguably the most significant stakeholders in the club are those who routinely pay for tickets and purchase products. Many supporters don't place much importance on social responsibility. Even if they do, it appears that many will put their own devotion to the team and fellow fans ahead of any criticism of their club's behaviour.
The cost-of-living crisis is affecting people all over the United Kingdom. inflation has risen by 10% in the past 12 months and it’s only a matter of time until supporters start to realise that topflight football clubs do not have their best interests at heart. The constant greed from merchandise suppliers in partnership with football clubs is becoming increasingly apparent to the fans that have their eyes open to the current consumer culture. There is understanding from many that if something doesn’t change, there will be a detrimental impact on the evolution of the game.
The cost-of-living crisis is affecting people all over the United Kingdom. inflation has risen by 10% in the past 12 months and it’s only a matter of time until supporters start to realise that topflight football clubs do not have their best interests at heart. The constant greed from merchandise suppliers in partnership with football clubs is becoming increasingly apparent to the fans that have their eyes open to the current consumer culture. There is understanding from many that if something doesn’t change, there will be a detrimental impact on the evolution of the game.
‘The way they treat migrant workers, gay people. We’re dismissing human rights, it’s not right,’- Roy Keane (ITV)
Looking at football on a global stage shows clear evidence that there is more to football than most people would believe exists. The rise of events, such as the UEFA Champions and the World Cup, is a result to advancement in engineering, political, and economic development. The most impactful being, the introduction of advanced digital technology; The ability for corporations and governments to now use ‘sport washing’ as a medium to propagate their ideologies and improve their own tarnished reputation is very apparent in the 21st century.
Examples of this are all too common. One of these includes the recent controversy surrounding the 2022 World Cup hosted in Qatar. Huge questions had been asked regarding the treatment of migrant workers, who helped build the infrastructure for the event. Confusion was the feeling many international football fans felt when they announced the host nation as Qatar. The idea that, Qatar a country that struggles to follow basic human right laws, was given the privilege to host such a prestigious event, didn’t make sense to most.
The topic of corruption has also generated debate over the competition. There have been claims that Qatar bought the tournament by paying off officials, and that the decision to award Qatar the event was not based on merit. The ethics committee's chairman, Michael Garcia, produced a report in 2014 that said the bid process was "flawed," but FIFA never made the contents of the report public and approved Qatar's bid. Not surprisingly, all was forgotten when the billions of fans across the world tuned in to watch their favourite superstars, and football results took the forefront in everyone’s minds. The negative connotations linked with Qatar appeared to vanish overnight in the media. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated; “Qatar will deliver the best-ever FIFA World Cup". Supporters showed their resent towards the president in the stadiums during multiple matches across the tournament. The realisation that countries and supporters where being deceived began to show. Large sporting events have always been awarded on meritocracy, and as soon as supporters were aware of the controversy there was a increase in demand for change.
Football is a sport that has a significant influence on global and local society. The sport has the power to bring people together, promote social change, create economic opportunities, shape cultural trends and movements and even play a role in diplomacy. Football's universal appeal and the values it represents, make it a powerful tool for change in the world. Supporters, Players, coaches and owners all need to be made aware of the influence football has on society and the effect it could have on generations to come. The need for football to positively impact society across the world is needed now more than ever.
6 notes
·
View notes
Text
Level Playing Field?
“A woman is a woman, and a man is a man. If you choose to medically change your sex, then you sacrifice the right to compete in sports at a professional level other than at the highest denominator. Through your own choices you have moved outside of a recognized gender division often found in sport”.
This is the opinion of a female participant from New York. Which begs the question, is it a level playing field when trans women are able to take part in competitions? Is gender a fact or a choice? And should there be a consequences for the choice you make when trying to compete at elite level sport.
Responses such as these highlight a discourse among sports fans. There is a consensus that men have a greater biological advantage than women and no amount of policy interventions or transitions to a new gender will ever alter this.
Is this a fair assumption? Or maybe a thought process that is manipulated by an ‘old school’ views?
Concerns about transgender participation in sport tend to revolve around assumptions about exposure to testosterone either before or as part of transitioning which can gives an unfair advantage. Embedded in the fair play discourse is the assumption that males have a physical advantage over their female counterparts. Within the context of sport, it is clear that there is a strong, prevalent societal belief that masculinity is superior to femininity.
The assumption that testosterone is a male hormone exclusively and provides a physical advantage to men after they go through puberty is argued by Fausto- sterling who outlines the presence of testosterone of varying levels in every athlete, not just exclusively men. Additionally, other researchers have pointed out that there are different factors that affect performance in elite level athletes.
According to Mackinnon (2017, 43), ‘the sporting world is confounded by athletes whose bodies, identities and hormonal profiles do not fit neatly into binary sex-segregated competition categories’. Which begs the question, is elevated levels of testosterone enough to warrant concern that the idea of fair play is in jeopardy?
Certain international sport associations have chosen to distinguish between male to female trans athletes who undergo sex reassignment before they reach puberty and those who undergo sex reassignment after going through puberty. For example, both the IOC and IAAF have stated that males who through sex reassignment before puberty should be regarded as female.
In general, very little concern has been given to female to male sex reassignment in sport. The Stockholm Consensus is clearly biased in the direction of male to female sex reassignment. Specific surgical changes are not there for female to male sex reassignment in the policy. The lack of attention to this detail clearly suggests that there still is a belief that females are inferior to males in sport.
So therefore, is it a level playing field when trans woman compete in elite sport with their clear physical advantages? Or are the medical procedures enough to maintain the sacred ideology of ’fair play’.
The development of boys to men through puberty and then the consequent testosterone boosts leading to a physiological difference which gives certain males and advantage is seen as natural. However, if we use the example of former American swimmer Michael Phelps, we can see that men’s sports has often had a history of unfair advantages down to physical attributes.
If you look at Phelps, he has size 14 feet, a long wingspan, production of less lactic acid then the average athletic swimmer and has double jointed ankles giving him an advantage on his competition through physiological differences.
Male athletes such as Michael Phelps are revered for their abilities that give an advantage in sports; however, trans women are demonised for almost non-existent advantages.
If a decision is made to categorically restrict male to female transsexual athletes from competing in a given sport as females, this rests on two critical assumptions. The first is that most people exposed to testosterone from puberty will develop physical/physiological attributes that gives a critical advantage over most woman.
The second belief needed to justify restricting male to female trans participation in female events is that these attributes can resist the hormonal manipulation of sex reassignment, therefore giving the male to female trans athlete an unfair advantage when competing against woman who are not trans.
There are certainly some effects of testosterone that cannot be reversed, including the effect on height in men whereby, men on average are taller than women. Therefore, accounting for main difference between the genders when competing in sport for example, in sports such as basketball, volleyball and netball where height can be a distinct advantage.
It is clear that creating fair and equitable gender policies for the purposes of upholding the principle of fair play is a complex task. Gender verification testing and gender policies have even put into question the very meaning of a man and a woman.
The IOC’s decision to accept transgender athletes to compete in the Games was an incredibly bold decision considering all the outrage for and against their choice, but with matters like these only time will tell who is right.
Or perhaps that is the wrong perspective. Maybe there is no right or wrong answer and the best way to proceed is to put in place measures to keep intact fair play and amend the rules when we know more about the experience of having trans gendered athletes competing at the elite level and the affect it had on the completive nature of sport.
After all, fair competition is why we love sport.
0 notes
Text
What’s the Odds? Gambling and it’s Unbreakable Bond with Sport
The action of manipulating outcomes of sporting events for monetary gain is one that seems to be coming more and more commonplace in the sports that we all know and love. From football and cricket to snooker and darts, a vast number of participants have taken to fixing up matches or scenarios in order for a quick, easy pay day. I think it’s high time we have a look into these instances and why the number of them seems to be on the rise.
History of Betting
Nowadays, if you see any form of sporting event taking place, you can guarantee there will be a huge amount of betting markets and money riding on said event. No matter where in the world it’s taking place, any number of bookmakers will offer prices for you to bet on.
The idea of betting is one that has been linked with sport right from the very first fixtures with bets being placed on horse races as early as the 16th century. When Charles II was King of England, betting on horses really took off with pub owners organising races and making odds for each horse partaking, therefore becoming the first set of “bookies”.
Image Credit: Philippe Oursel, Unsplash.com
As times changed, pubs were banned from any endorsing or engaging in any form of gambling as it was thought that the combination of betting and alcohol would most likely ‘ruin a man’. This led to the opening up of establishments solely dedicated to betting and your first official bookmakers were born. Looking further on to the modern day, betting has never been more easily accessible. You can’t walk down a high street without spotting at least a half dozen betting shops, whilst online apps are plentiful. You no longer have to get out of bed before placing a bet on whatever you desire on your choice of thousands of betting sites.
Average Punter vs Elite Sportsman
Across the majority of the country as well as the Earth as a whole, there are very few limitations which restrict individuals from gambling or betting on whatever they please. The everyday individual, much like you or me I imagine, are able to walk into a bookies or download apps and put a bet on within a matter of minutes.
This freedom is one that is restricted with regards to elite athletes across the World. These legislations are enforced mainly in order to keep the integrity of the sporting world at the high it should always be at. If athletes were allowed to bet on their sport or even themselves then the number of irregular bets and actions by said players would go through the roof, with bookies losing thousands of pounds in every fixture. Therefore, to ensure this does not happen, governing bodies in all sporting facets restrict their competitors from being involved even in the smallest way.
Taking Advantage
Whilst ultimately going against the laws set out by governing bodies and agreed to by all participants in any given sport, some athletes find the lucrative option of making an illegitimate bonus too much to turn down. These instances of athletes throwing matches or deliberately committing a certain action in order to help a bet win is becoming an increasingly growing and worrying subject in all sports around the globe.
One example that sits fresh in the memory at the moment is the huge match-fixing scandal across the sport of snooker. A sport that is simple in it’s aim, snooker is also one that is seemingly easy to manipulate. This perhaps became more evident when
10 Chinese players were suspended
before one of the biggest tournaments in the World, The Masters, as part of an inquiry into allegations of altering the outcome of matches to allow for a winning bet. This particular instance looks to be particularly harrowing, with rumours being that Chinese crime syndicates are involved as well as the younger, less experienced players supposedly being bullied into throwing matches. The fact that all players suspended are of Chinese origin is not to be unexpected due to the rapid increase in betting markets across the Asian continent and the fact that many of these companies exist without any rule or regulation. In almost a trivial way to look at things, the fact that China bans betting altogether means bettors are forced to go underground to look for these syndicates who therefore have a huge amount of cashflow and power. If the government allowed betting, you would have to think these instances would decrease.
Due to football being a team sport with 11 players involved, it is very rare that you’ll find an entire match being fixed for a specific score or result, due to there being a huge number of variables. In order to do so, you would have to imagine that both sets of players, coaches and owners are all on board at the same time. Therefore, footballers eager to chance their hand at making an extra few quid often turn to individual actions as opposed to match-fixing. A prime example of this would be with current professional footballer Kieran Trippier. Whilst being on the verge of a move from Tottenham Hotspur, he sent his friends a message saying to ‘lump on if you want’ on Trippier to move away to Atletico Madrid. The commission at the FA rejected his premise that the message was just “banter”, and he was banned for 10 weeks and fined £70,000.
Another vivid example of an athlete manipulating the outcome was when Lincoln City defender Bradley Wood intentionally fouled opponents in order to receive numerous yellow cards during the club’s games in the FA Cup in 2018.
What’s so bad about it?
A number of people would say that there is no harm in athletes betting on fixtures in their sport that they have no impact or control over. Whilst this may be true to a certain extent, the slippery slope into the lucrativeness of betting on things that are in their control would, more often than not, be too great to turn down.
One of the main worries about the rise of this issue, is the fact that the integrity and spirit that games are mostly played in becomes sullied. Regarding the snooker issue previously mentioned, Shaun Murphy, ranked 11th in the World has called for all participants in the scandal to be terminated from the sport and slapped with a complete lifetime ban. His worry was that without a zero-tolerance policy, the act of match-fixing will remain in his beloved sport with cheaters continuing to exploit the good nature of snooker itself.
By manipulating the outcome of an event for personal, monetary gain, it takes away from the reality of the fixture that then becomes ruined. Fans watching the match will have paid to watch what they believe to be a fair fight between two teams or opponents whilst in reality, the result of these fixed games was always predetermined. By becoming such an issue in recent sporting events and competitions, might this start to have an impact on the audience numbers watching. In turn, funding and sponsorships may want to distance themselves from such scandals, reducing the amount of money involved in any said sport.
What can be done?
One thing that often seems to be glossed over when talking about sportspeople involved in gambling is just how addictive it can be. It can be grouped alongside the more commonly known addictions of drugs and alcohol due to it’s impact on the adrenal gland and its ability to produce dopamine. There are numerous individuals across the World who have had their lives turned upside down due to this crippling addiction.
I get the impression that because the most notable stories on this subject area involve the highest echelon of elite athletes, that people don’t feel any sort of empathy towards them due to the knowledge of their high paycheques. I really believe that more needs to be done by these governing bodies to educate young, upcoming athletes on the dangers of and how to handle gambling.
If it gets to the point of no return and, just like any of the athletes mentioned earlier, they have broken the rules in this department, then the option of rehabilitation needs to be offered and encouraged.
Lastly, you may have seen the video below floating around the internet over the past couple of weeks. This really shows how serious of an addiction betting can be and once again highlights the help that individuals may well need to stop altogether, be that a sportsperson or not.
youtube
If you feel like this is an issue you would like to look further into I would recommend starting with these few papers:
The Threat to Football from Betting-Related Corruption by David Forrest in 2012 (https://econpapers.repec.org/article/jsfintjsf/v_3a7_3ay_3a2012_3ai_3a2_3ap_3a99-116.htm)
Risk Factors for Gambling Problems on Online Electronic Gaming Machines, Race Betting and Sports Betting by Hing, Russell and Browne in 2017 (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00779/full)
Gambling Addiction on the Internet by Mark Griffiths in 2007 (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/9781118013991.ch6)
If you are struggling with any issues surrounding gambling or betting please go and have a look at these websites:
GAMSTOP: https://www.gamstop.co.uk/
BeGambleAware: https://www.begambleaware.org/
NHS Addiction Support: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/gambling-addiction/
0 notes
Text
Racism and discrimination in sports: killing players from inside
Within global sports, racism has long been prevalent. It is intensified when athletes of colour are placed under the spotlight during major international competitions.
The massive increase in sports’ visibility and popularity has also intensified the way that fans relate to sportspeople. Athletes become the face of the country they are representing and many people pin patriotic hopes, frustration and fears on them.
According to Walters et al. (2022) racial abuse is generally an ugly mixture of fandom, rage, grief, patriotism and scapegoating.
When fans engage in racist abuse, this may be because the target of their abuse is seen as not belonging. However, racial discrimination and stereotypes differ across nations, wherein the media may play a different role in promoting racial discrimination in sports. For instance, black athletes from Africa in international matches in the US may face issues in terms of prioritising racial and other questions from the media.
According to Scharrer & Ramasubramanian (2015) the media may be guilty of presenting ethnic and minority groups as less dominating, less wealthy, less powerful and having less intelligence. This illustrates the potential influence of the media to challenge norms and promote and eliminate the racial aspects in sports.
Yet, the media represents women athletes as women first and athletes later. Coverage of women's sport is dominated by their age, appearance and family rather than their performance and capabilities. In contrast, the media commonly represents men as valued, independent, powerful and dominating.
Importantly, the cases in the world are changing and various governments are taking action to reduce discrimination and stereotypes and promote equal treatment to BAME (Black, Asian, Minority and Ethnic) communities (UNESCO, 2022).
The UK government has proposed that fans who are guilty of spreading racism online could be prevented and banned. Further, the US government has supported the inclusion and participation of African females' via media representation. As a result, the appraisal or inclusion of skilled and capable African females is included in US sports (Zenquis & Mwaniki, 2019). Still, these females face stereotypes by American media and fans.
Despite this, it is worth noting that around 65% in the case of football and around 75% of the players in the case of basketball players are black in the US. This justifies the provision of promotion and importance to the black community by the US government in its sports.
Nevertheless, despite being a rapid and effective stereotype and discrimination reduction in the sports of America, black women players are generally compared and contrasted with white women in the essence of womanhood.
The bodies of these black women are generally depicted as hair, proper attire, muscular and buttocks by the media. These justify how white supremacy prevails and dominates black women.
In this context, the major role is being played by the media. elatedly, racial discrimination and stereotypes may also be due to the lack of media favouring ethnic groups specifically while avoiding others.
Furthermore, negative media representation not only promotes public hostility toward ethnic groups but also lowers the self-esteem of the players belonging to ethnic groups (Castañeda, 2018).
Therefore, prevention and combating crude and lazy stereotypes and tackling discrimination in sports are imperative, though difficult to achieve. Yet, constant efforts by various governments and organisations are evident, in an attempt to bring about positive change for athletes, especially those belonging to the BAME community.
N0970642
2 notes
·
View notes