Abstract
Sport involvement is suggested to offer a context for health and wellness, civic engagement, economic development and prosperity, and other physical, psychological, and social benefits (Canadian Sport Policy, 2012; Fraser-Thomas et al., 2005); however, sport can also be a site for differentiating, marginalizing and excluding individuals and groups (Spaaij et al., 2014). This study explored the lived experience of sport participation among 16 youth and young adults living in Neighborhood Improvement Areas within Toronto. Recognizing that culture is fundamental to an individual's experiences, behaviours, and identity, we utilized a "cultural praxis" framework, which combines blended theory, lived culture, and social action (Blodgett et al., 2015). Specifically, we adopted a narrative inquiry approach guided by the principles of community-based research (e.g., Conrad & Campbell, 2005). Findings indicate that feelings of difference (e.g., body, skills, opportunities) influenced perceptions of sport competence, which in turn affected sport participation outcomes (e.g., drop-out, poor performance, and resilience). Participants often expressed feelings of difference in the context of geography, ethnicity and gender. Findings are discussed through the lens of Harter's (1978, 1982) Competence Motivation Theory and Cultural Studies Framework (Fisher et al., 2003). This research suggests that broader contextual issues need to be considered when exploring sport competence and motivation for sport participation. Specifically, findings highlight the importance of acknowledging feelings of difference in sport contexts, creating more welcoming sport environments for all youth and young adults, increasing access and opportunities, and enhancing perceptions of competence.
