The Impact of Australian Sport

Sport is deeply embedded in Australian culture and is an essential aspect of the social life and national pride that Australians uphold. As part of our program, my class had the opportunity to experience a wide range of Australian sporting events and even try most of them for ourselves. As part of our class, we extensively discussed the sociology of sport, exploring topics such as the Aboriginal experience in sport, gender disparity, socioeconomic barriers, and media framing about Australian sport and its broader role within global networks. 

I have had a long and complicated relationship with sport back in the States. I found the environment to be toxic at times, and there to be unattainable standards as a woman trying to compete in a sport that male coaches might overshadow. I have only recently rediscovered my love for organized sports, and my experience abroad has only strengthened my understanding of the importance of embracing the joy that sport can bring, while still being critical of the systems in place that might not be ethically sound. 

It is safe to say that Australia has some of the most electric and heart-filled sporting atmospheres I have ever experienced. Our teacher, who has worked at multiple Olympic Games, shared insights on players, historical events, and pivotal moments in Australian sport that helped our American group feel part of a nation's pride. 

One of the first sports we watched live was rugby, and this was my first exposure to the sport. This game is unreal. The size of the players, the speed and precision required to pass and kick the ball, and the overall atmosphere of the crowd were all reasons why I was in awe of this game. We also watched netball and the Australian Football League (AFL), and went surfing, swimming, and snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef. 

I won’t delve into all the sociology topics we discussed concerning sport, but I will emphasize the importance of recognizing the long-lasting impact that sport has on any nation and how this shapes its culture. This could be recognizing the colonial effects on sport and why Australia is always keen to beat England, or how geographical differences impact the Olympic experience of various athletes. 

I wrote an intention for class on the first day, and here is part of my reflection on the last day of class: “I've noticed many new facets of sport and how it connects to my everyday life, even if it doesn’t seem directly related to competitive sport. I have a new appreciation for my understanding of sport and the depth of my education and degree, which helps me to have a critical eye. I appreciate my ability to talk to others and sympathize with different groups of people—this has made my Aussie experience so rewarding, and I am so grateful for the experiences I now have.” I want to say thank you to Australia and this class for helping me rediscover the part of myself that is connected not just to sport, but to the people involved.