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The Pasifika Youth Sporting Experience: Pressure, Opportunities and Gaining an Understanding Through a Coaching Lens

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Dissertation(1.36 MB)

Date

2023

Authors

Robinson, Tayla

Supervisor

Keung, Sierra
Enari, Dion

Item type

Dissertation

Degree name

Master of Sport, Exercise and Health

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Publisher

Auckland University of Technology

Abstract

The experience of Pasifika youth in Aotearoa who participate in sport is important to understanding coaching and athlete development. Although Pasifika have higher participation rates in sport within the youth space, little has been done to privilege their voices. This qualitative descriptive study unpacks the perceptions and experiences of Pasifika youth in sport. The participants in this study were secondary school athletes aged 16-18 years who identified as being of Pasifika-descent and played at least one sport at the school representative level. Data was gathered using a culturally appropriate method, Talanoa. Using thematic analysis, four dominant themes were identified that shaped the participants experiences: familial obligations, athlete perceptions of culture, coach-athlete relationship, and stereotypes and stigma. Pressures stemming from the need to reciprocate parents for providing opportunities for engagement was evident with participants. Opportunities to reconnect with heritage and redefine team culture were highly valued amongst this cohort. Coaches who formed an environment which embraced the backgrounds and individuality of athletes formed positive connections with youth. Participants were victim to various forms of stereotyping and racial prejudice both on and off the field. The findings suggest that coaches who engage with Pasifika athletes must take into consideration their individuality by creating an environment which embraces the backgrounds of their constituents to form positive connections. By strengthening the connections with the athletes, practitioners may be in a better position to understand the motives behind their engagement and help navigate the associated pressure of being a developing Pasifika athlete. Through maintaining a high level of cultural responsiveness, coaches and practitioners alike can better utilize their role as a support mechanism to shape and enhance the experiences of Pasifika youth in sport.

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Permanent link

http://hdl.handle.net/10292/17415

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Masters Dissertations