Christian Augustsson

To play or not to play, that’s the question – young people’s experiences of organized spontaneous sport

Abstract As an attempt to reach physically inactive young people, especially girls, organized spontaneous sport (OSP) was implemented as a part of the state programme ‘The Sports Lift’ (2010). Projects, however, tended to primarily attract physically active boys rather than the actual target group. This problem calls for a qualitative approach to gain further knowledge about the interplay within the activities. Accordingly, this study aims to examine young people’s experiences of OSP activities with focus on participation, leadership and determining processes. To fulfil this purpose, a case study design was implemented. Data were collected through observations (pilot study) and semi-structured interviews with participants. The theoretical point of departure is developmental ecology, emphasizing the individual’s interaction with the multilevel environment. Results show that OSP is experienced as different from conventional organized sport. Further, the domination of boys is made possible through upholding the masculine sports norm, which is actualized within determining processes.

‘It’s like half-sport, maybe even a bit more than half-sport’: children’s experience of a sport for all programme in school

Abstract In this article we explore children’s experiences of a Sport for All Programme (SAP) in school. The purpose of the ‘Sport for All’ policy is to give children an opportunity to try different sports, with a focus on play and motor learning rather than organized competition. In this study, we approach children as active agents in constructing the SAP practice in line with the theoretical standpoint that children are competent social actors with agency. The study is based on repeated focus group interviews with 15 ten-year-old children (9 girls, 6 boys) participating in a SAP in the western part of Sweden. The children perceived the SAP as sessions with less emphasis on performance and without organized competitions; it was described as a ‘low threshold’ activity. However, the result showed that the SAP activity was not free from performance-oriented principles. The Sport for All pedagogy needs to consider and handle the consequences of competition principles, especially if the participating children and leaders have a performance ethos.

The Swedish riding school: a social arena for young riders

Abstract The aim was to explore how young riders experience the riding school. By analysing focus groups interviews, a picture emerged showing that young riders’ main motive for participating at riding schools was the social aspects. Riding schools could be characterized through an institutional perspective in which the young riders became internalized and socialized into a stable culture. The young riders identified with the norms and values of the riding instructors through master–apprentice learning. In addition, the results revealed a change in the stable culture since the instructors encouraged social interactions and participation in the community that became central to learning and development. Opportunities to influence and interact were important for the individuals and from a child’s rights perspective. Through participation in the community of practice at riding schools, young riders not only learn about riding and horse management but also develop important personal social skills.