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Inclusive, inviting, inspiring: Insights into the experiences of women's football fans in Australia and Germany

Version 2 2024-06-03, 03:18
Version 1 2024-03-07, 22:20
journal contribution
posted on 2024-03-07, 22:20 authored by Christiana Schallhorn, Kasey Symons, Jessica Kunert, Lina-Doreen Rose
Despite growing interest in women's football, limited research exists on its fans and their fan experience. Thus, findings from women's football culture against the background of hegemonic masculinity are presented, demonstrating how the space counteracts this concept. An online survey for fans located in Australia and Germany was developed to explore perceived differences in the culture of women's football. Participation in online (social media, broadcast) and offline (in stadium, in-person events) communities was examined. Further findings identified relevant themes for women's football fans: (1) the authentic character of women's football; (2) the strong bond between teams, players and fans; (3) the stadium as a safe space; (4) the friendly atmosphere in the stadium; and (5) less commercialisation, mediatisation and professionalisation. Implications for women's football, its fans and fan culture are discussed.

History

Journal

International Review for the Sociology of Sport

ISSN

1012-6902

eISSN

1461-7218

Language

en

Publisher

SAGE Publications

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