Student Number: 39856956
Barriers in Sport
'Walking Forward Together' by Raymond Walters Penangke
First Nations peoples face significant barriers to participating in sport, rooted in historical, social, economic and cultural factors such as colonisation, the Stolen Generation and dislocation. These challenges limit access to sporting opportunities and facilities which impacts the overall engagement in both community and elite levels of sport.
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Overcoming these challenges is vital, as sport can play a powerful role in improving health, wellbeing, and social connection. For Indigenous youth in particular, sport fosters confidence, identity, and community pride. Culturally safe, inclusive programs that are led by and for First Nations people can help break down barriers and encourage greater participation. Sport not only offers individual and community benefits, but it also contributes to reconciliation and closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It is very valuable to better understand the barriers which are currently being faced, as greater education on these issues can foster conversation and change within Australian society.
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Common Barriers
There are many barriers and preventors from Aboriginal people being able to participate in sport such as:
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Few opportunities and facilities, especially in remote areas
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Lack of or inability to get transport to sports training and events, especially in remote areas
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Racism and discrimination
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Climate barriers e.g. heat
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Lack of cultural inclusiveness
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Little knowledge of the rules
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Language barrier
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Lack of role models and underrepresentation in elite sport
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Cost
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Lack of competence and confidence (or feeling shy)
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No trust in Westernised sport
