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Question 30 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) How have physical activity and sport influenced the lives and identity of Indigenous Australians? (b) Assess the consequences for specific Australian sports when a business focus is adopted. - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 30 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 30
Question 30 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) How have physical activity and sport influenced the lives and identity of Indigenous ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 30 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) How have physical activity and sport influenced the lives and identity of Indigenous Australians? (b) Assess the consequences for specific Australian sports when a business focus is adopted. - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 30 - 2014 - Paper 1
Step 1
How have physical activity and sport influenced the lives and identity of Indigenous Australians?
Answer
Before colonisation, Indigenous Australians participated in various physical activities that reflected their daily survival activities of hunting and fishing, which were closely tied to their identity and connection with the land. Activities like running, jumping, and throwing involved basic movement skills that were essential for everyday life.
‘Sport’ was often communal, with competitions like catching, throwing, and kicking games fostering social bonds and cultural identity among community members. These traditional games aimed to enhance cooperation and provide enjoyment rather than strict competition.
In post-colonial Australia, the role of physical activity and sport shifted significantly. Traditional practices were often overshadowed, but sports offered a new avenue for Indigenous Australians to reconnect with their cultural heritage and establish identity within the broader Australian society. Participation in sports, such as Australian football, provided a platform for visibility and recognition for Indigenous Australians, as seen in the contributions of players to their communities.
The 1994 Commonwealth Games and the 2000 Olympics highlighted the achievements of Indigenous athletes, bringing attention to their cultural identity. For instance, Cathy Freeman used her platform to promote recognition of Indigenous issues, illustrating how sport can influence personal and communal identities amidst social challenges.
Step 2
Assess the consequences for specific Australian sports when a business focus is adopted.
Answer
The adoption of a business focus in Australian sports has led to several significant consequences, primarily driven by media influence and commercialization. This growth in the professionalization of sports has altered player behavior and organizational priorities.
In cricket, for example, Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket revolutionized the sport, prioritizing television audiences and leading to cricketers being paid significantly for their participation. This shift has created new dynamics, such as players receiving higher wages but also increased pressure to perform for commercial interests.
Rugby League also experienced transformation with the initiation of a ‘Super League’ competition, which ultimately changed how players engaged with the sport. Many players struggle with the dual pressures of maintaining competitive performance while also navigating personal financial survival.
These shifts have driven changes such as substantial funding from national organizations, as well as the establishment of infrastructure that prioritizes profit over sport integrity. Overall, the emphasis on business considerations has altered how Australian sports are viewed and operated, resulting in both opportunities and challenges for athletes and the sporting landscape.