ABSTRACT

In the past, sport, particularly football, has been defined as a male domain. Women’s interest stereotypically ranges from gentle tolerance to active resistance. But increasingly, women are proudly identifying themselves as supporters of their teams, and have become highly desirable audiences for sport organizations and merchandisers. Football provides a unique site at which to examine the complex interplay between three theoretical areas: identity formation and maintenance, commercialization of cultural practices, and gender hegemony. This book explores how women experience their fandom, and what barriers exist for the female fan.

chapter 1|12 pages

Introduction

chapter 2|10 pages

Performative Sport Fandom 1

chapter 5|24 pages

A Family Affair

chapter 6|24 pages

Community Ties, Community Pride

chapter 8|25 pages

Food, Football, and Fun: Watching at Home

chapter 10|15 pages

Conclusion