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The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the experiences of the New Zealand Women Rugby Team, the "Black Ferns ". Data were collected via semi-structured interviews on 23 Black Ferns, which was then analyzed with the assistance of Hyper Research, a qualitative data analysis package. The authors discuss the motivations of the women to start playing rugby, as well as those factors that facilitated their continued involvement in the sport. In addition, the players 'perceptions of participating in a strongly male dominated sport were identified. The Black Ferns started playing rugby for two main reasons: the physical nature of the sport, and because their friends played The participants also offered two main reasons for continuing to play: enjoyment, and the challenge. The players expressed divided opinions about competing in what has traditionally been a predominantly male sport. The implications of these findings are important for administrators and those wishing to promote women's rugby., Rugby is New Zealand's national game, but has until recently been male dominated. It was not until 1980 that the first women's provincial game was played in New Zealand (Chester, [...]

There has been concern expressed that participation in sport may encourage the onset of disordered eating which, in turn, may lead to a clinical eating disorder. This study examined social [...]