Beyond the Spotlight: The Reality of Sport
Sport is a universal language. It brings people together, whether through the energy of live events or the Monday morning debriefs at work. We celebrate the social skills our tamariki develop through team participation, and the discipline and determination that sport offers. Many of us also feel a curious sense of ownership over our favourite athletes, as if they play for us.
But how often do we pause to consider the pressure that lies beneath the surface? How often do we reflect on our roles as fans? And how much thought do we really give to the mental health of the professional athletes we watch?
This kōrero aims to shed light on the lived experiences of professional athletes and invites us, as fans, to better understand the realities of the sporting world from the comfort of our couches.
Bio
Dr Phil Borell is a Senior Lecturer in the Aotahi School of Māori and Indigenous Studies at the University of Canterbury, a sport sociologist, a rugby league coach, a sports dad, a husband, a tragic Warriors fan and a former mediocre athlete. Through his research, Phil has sought to provide a voice for professional athletes to share their real-world experiences, helping consumers of sport better understand the pressures, stressors, and complexities of ‘the dream job’. Phil's work has led to publications that promote new perspectives on Polynesian masculinities in sport and the importance of culture and language in sport.
Event
Tuesday 16 September, 6:30pm @The Laboratory, 17 West Belt, Lincoln 7608
Also speaking at this location at 8:00pm is Dr Rachael Dixon
