Underrepresentation of women in management of sports: implications for women's participation in rugby sports in Polokwane Municipality of Limpopo Province

Abstract

The underrepresentation of women in management positions of rugby is a continued unresolved phenomenon not only in South Africa, but across the globe. It has been thirty years since the Brighton Declaration was adopted, which was attended 289 international states. The Brighton Declaration Conference seeks to promote the interest of women in sport; the conference in line with Sustainable Developmental Goals (also called “SDG. World Rugby has over 15 working committees that constitute less than 5 women serving as members in committees. South African Rugby Union (SARU), a custodian for rugby in South Africa, lacks women representation in senior management positions. Thus, a research conducted in women rugby in Polokwane Municipality. The aim of the research is to investigate the underrepresentation of women in management of sport and the implications for women ‘s participation in rugby sport in Polokwane Municipality, Limpopo Province. The research uses qualitative approach, and 20 participants were purposively sampled to respond to interview questions. The research findings revealed SARU’s inadequacy in developing women for management of rugby. Thus, the research recommends women empowerment through various sustainable development programs accustomed to equip women to occupy management and leadership roles. Furthermore, policy review on sport management should be considered, the review brings together women coaches, technical staff and other team officiating from various stakeholders of sports and rugby in particular. SARU has to review their inclusion policies, and implement them. World Rugby’s inclusion policies must also be implemented because in many cases inclusion policies only exist on paper.