1. STRATEGIES FOR EQUAL GENDER PARTICIPATION

2. Social norms formed about sport and physical activity are the result of a complex interaction of sociological factors. Social norms are a form of behavior that is usually accepted as correct and ‘proper’ by the majority of members of the society (Amezdroz et al, 2010, p. 478)

3. Attitudes formed about sport and physical activity are the result of a complex interaction of sociological factors.

4. To change these social norms towards touch, two strategies will promote and encourage equal gender participation. Target school aged children to change the attitudes towards girls playing touch Use media to positively influence female participation in touch

5. Schools

6. Teachers play a particular role as socializing agents as they exert influence over our behavior (Amezdroz et al, 2010, p.484) Therefore, institutions such as schools have a significant role to play in shaping the socialization of individuals in exercise, sport and physical activity (Amezdroz et al, 2010, p.484)

7. What would you do ?

8. Promotion of females playing touch at schools would influence girls to play and, eventually, establish this as the ‘norm’ within society. Recognise females playing touch Create awards for girls such as Best and Fairest, Spirit and Age Champion to be handed out at assemblies Include pictures in school yearbooks and details of sporting achievements in school newsletters.

9. Promotion of females playing touch at schools would influence girls to play and, eventually, establish this as the ‘norm’ within society. Girls actively playing touch Organize touch games during lunches with female staff participating to provide effective role models for students. Establish mixed touch teams to play other schools.

10. Promotion of females playing touch at schools would influence girls to play and, eventually, establish this as the ‘norm’ within society. Expose girls to touch Educate and train girls during lunch breaks, PE lessons, after school sessions, special sessions during school Use female only trainers as role models. They can relate and be less intimidating.

11. In some cases barriers to participation in sport and physical activity can be removed by modifying activities. (Amezdroz, 2004, p.472)

12. What would you do ?

13. Modify the rules to allow equal participation in mixed gender games Girls being dummy half Girls to be tagged 2 handed by boys Female try = 2 points