SPORT AS A SITE FOR WOMENS GROUP AND SOCIETAL EMPOWERMENT - PERSPECTIVES FROM THE COLLEGE ATHLETE

This exploratory study examines the potential of intercollegiate sport participation to empower women at the group and societal levels. Tele phone interviews were conducted with 24 women athletes from various sp ort teams at three Division I universities. Findings demonstrate that at the group level, sport facilitates female bonding and the developme nt of a group identity and common goals. Empowerment at the societal l evel was noted when athletes indicated that their participation in spo rt challenged societal perceptions of women as well as making them mor e aware of gender inequalities in sport. However, the sport context di d not appear to be an effective vehicle in enhancing athletes' conscio usness as women or encouraging their activism in support of women's is sues.