As an avid soccer slash football fan (an argument solely between Americans and the British) with a dab of enjoying Formula 1 racing, sexism is nothing more than a tweet or Instagram post away. Generally, sport is a male dominated space, and it is “only right” for them to gear up and arm themselves when a female steps foot into the room. I’ll be sharing some personal tips and experiences I’ve gone through as I’ve raced my way through the field of toxic masculinity and sexism.
A little back story: I began watching soccer in 2019 and have been obsessed ever since. I started watching Formula 1 a few months back and, alas – I’ve been hooked. These are two different sports- however, they share one commonality: they are both not the most welcoming towards women. Our opinions are not taken seriously; we are constantly being undermined; and our reasons for watching the sport are doubted. This makes finding common ground, or allies, difficult. There are basic experiences that you will come across as a female sports fan, so pay attention!
No matter what, you will be asked if the only reason you’re watching the sport is because of the players being conventionally attractive men. Of course, there is absolutely nothing more attractive that ogling sweaty men while they run up and down the pitch for ninety minutes. Watching them spit occasionally and be completely out of breath? So. Hot.
Mansplaining, is the ordeal of a man explaining something to a woman in a very condescending way. Be prepared to have the definition of what a goal is explained to you. I wish I was joking. Are free kicks discounted shoes?
The various looks of surprise on their face when you explain that you indeed watch the full race matches and pay attention to the different formations; are both frustrating and amusing. This is followed by a condescending smirk.
Last, but not least, you will, annoyingly, be asked whether you watch the sport for ‘clout’. This is ridiculous – because of course I’ve just gained so much fame for making it known that I, a woman, watches football.
Do not fret; being a female sports fan is not all bad. Once you pass all the sexism and bias, you will find your mutuals, preferably ones who support the same team as you. That means that under no circumstances are Liverpool and Manchester United supporters going to get along- well, unless you’re Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher. And if you were wondering: I’m a Man United supporter through and through. Soccer is a beautiful sport: there is a deep love of the game shared between all fans that unites us. Football is an intricate sport built on anticipation. Each touch of the ball, pass, and shot contributes makes me feel like I can do better in life. Watching a play come together and a team goal build-up probably has to be one of the most satisfying and adrenaline rusfeelings as a football fan. I am going to be honest: it is not easy to explain why football fans love the game so much. You either love it or you don’t.
Sexism in football is carried through deep systemic patriarchy, which is evident in men. We see this in how women’s teams do not receive as much attention and respect as the men’s teams do. They are paid less and do not receive the same coverage. It is not a sport that young girls are often encouraged to play- this all adds to the notions of it being exclusively for men. Football is a people sport, and recent campaigns are working harder to make it more inclusive: from team captains wearing LGBQT+ flag themed armbands, taking the knee before kick-off to the premier leagues “No Room for Racism “campaign. This is an honouree effect to acknowledge the exclusive space and trying to make it inclusive.
Here are just two quick tips for dealing. with a patronising man: stand up straight, square your shoulders, puff out your chest. Then, look them straight straight in the eye and whisper: ‘I know what the offside rule is.’ Or, just distract them with the most controversial debate in all of football’s history: Cristiano Ronaldo or. Lionel Messi?
P.S: this article is rife with sarcasm!