The Sleeping Giant: Australian Rules Football in the Lives of Muslim Women in Western Sydney

Abstract

While Australians are famed internationally for their obsession of sport from both a participant and spectator level, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has identified a significant underrepresentation of culturally diverse women in sport and physical recreation. In particular, Muslim women have some of the lowest rates of participation and engagement in sport which has produced minimal academic research. To address this neglect, this qualitative study interviewed nine female Muslim players who are actively involved within a semi-professional Western Sydney Australian Rules Football Club. From the data generated and the analysis undertaken, three clear themes emerged. First, the issue of racism is still a prominent feature within this sporting code, and there has been a lack of support from external bodies for players who experience discrimination. Second, retention rates are maintained due to the cultural responsiveness of the Club, as it includes all women whilst enhancing the experience for Muslim women. Finally, this study also found that charismatic leadership attracted players, sponsors, and hence, maintained the longevity of the Club.