Use this term to describe structures and relationships in society that appears to be based on male dominance and female oppression. Sport and physical activity have long been regarded as a masculine domain and are some of the main sites for social construction of masculinity in Australian society. Sport develops a strong sense of male ‘belonging’, encouraging males to identify with each other in locations (playing fields, change rooms and social settings after sport) where this masculine identification is reinforced. Female sport is viewed in a negative and disparaging way, emphasising a lack of skill and the inability to play games valued by males. These attitudes are often expressed in the form of abuse. When not playing well, players are likely to be accused of ‘playing like a girl’.

HEGEMONIC MASCULINITY “the structure and relationships in society which appear to be based on male dominance and female oppression (Amezdroz et al, 2004). (pg 484) The term ‘hegemonic’ refers to the leadership or dominance of one group over other groups (Amezdroz et al, 2004) and ‘masculinity’ means having qualities traditionally ascribed to men, as strength and boldness (Dictionary.com, 2009). “the dominant form of masculinity within the gender hierarchy” (Online Encyclopaedia, 2009).