Ring Around the Derby: The Development of Leisure Identity in Female Roller Derby Participants

Major

Masters of Science, Recreation and Park Administration

Department

Recreation and Park Administration

Degree

Graduate

Mentor

Michael J. Bradley

Mentor Department

Recreation and Park Administration

Abstract

University Presentation Showcase 2015

Ring Around the Derby: The Development of Leisure Identity in Female Roller Derby Participants

Authors: Ashley Hensley, Kari McConnell, Hungling Liu, Brooke Burk, & Michael J. Bradley

Roller derby is a versatile, fast-paced, sport that possesses a thrilling, and eclectic nature. Considered a form of serious leisure, roller derby, through this leisure experience, has provided a great opportunity for women to flourish emotionally, physically, and socially. Women in roller derby express their originality and individuality, while still embracing their femininity. Roller derby creates opportunity for developing bonds and comradeship, while creating an electric environment for coaches, teammates, opponents, and spectators, alike. In the last ten years, the popularity of roller derby, for women especially, has increased.

The purpose of this research was to examine specific demographic markers as they related to leisure identity development of female roller derby participants. Analysis revealed higher commitment to roller derby resulted in a stronger and more positive acquired identity from participants. Those participants with a higher level of involvement were more likely to experience positive emotion associated with the sport and experience a greater sense of self-identity. In conclusion, research findings suggest that participation in roller derby provides females an outlet to connect with others, creating a catalyst for positive self-identity and positive emotions associated with the sport, thus providing a greater connection with the sport resulting in continued participation.

Presentation format

Poster

Poster Number

21

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Ring Around the Derby: The Development of Leisure Identity in Female Roller Derby Participants

University Presentation Showcase 2015

Ring Around the Derby: The Development of Leisure Identity in Female Roller Derby Participants

Authors: Ashley Hensley, Kari McConnell, Hungling Liu, Brooke Burk, & Michael J. Bradley

Roller derby is a versatile, fast-paced, sport that possesses a thrilling, and eclectic nature. Considered a form of serious leisure, roller derby, through this leisure experience, has provided a great opportunity for women to flourish emotionally, physically, and socially. Women in roller derby express their originality and individuality, while still embracing their femininity. Roller derby creates opportunity for developing bonds and comradeship, while creating an electric environment for coaches, teammates, opponents, and spectators, alike. In the last ten years, the popularity of roller derby, for women especially, has increased.

The purpose of this research was to examine specific demographic markers as they related to leisure identity development of female roller derby participants. Analysis revealed higher commitment to roller derby resulted in a stronger and more positive acquired identity from participants. Those participants with a higher level of involvement were more likely to experience positive emotion associated with the sport and experience a greater sense of self-identity. In conclusion, research findings suggest that participation in roller derby provides females an outlet to connect with others, creating a catalyst for positive self-identity and positive emotions associated with the sport, thus providing a greater connection with the sport resulting in continued participation.