RAJIV GANDHI NATIONAL

UNIVERSITY OF LAW, PATIALA

POLITICAL SCIENCE MAJOR PROJECT (SEM I)

TOPIC : ROLE MODEL IN SPORTS

SUBMITTED BY : SUBMITTED TO :
NAME – SHASHANK UPADHYAY MR. AASHISH
ROLL NO. – 21163 ASSIST. PROF. OF SOCIOLOGY,
GROUP NO. – 04 RGNUL, PUNJAB
 Contents
A. Acknowledgement.................................................................................................................3
B. Bonafide Certificate...............................................................................................................4
1. Theory of sociology and sports..............................................................................................5
1.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................5
1.2 Origin of Sociology of Sports..........................................................................................5
2. Sociological paradigms in sports.......................................................................................6
2.1 Conflict Theory................................................................................................................6
2.2 Functionalist Theory........................................................................................................6
2.3 Interactionist Theory........................................................................................................7
2.4 Feminist Theory...............................................................................................................7
3. Role model in sports...............................................................................................................7
3.1 Roles Model Defined.......................................................................................................8
3.2 Role models can be positive and negative.......................................................................8
3.3 Encouragement is important............................................................................................8
3.4 The Perfect Mix of Skill and Character...........................................................................9
4. Qualities of a role model........................................................................................................9
4.1 Always sets of good examples.........................................................................................9
4.2 Optimistic.........................................................................................................................9
4.3 Speaks out and respect Everyone.....................................................................................9
5. Role model in sports - MS Dhoni........................................................................................10
6. Bibliography.........................................................................................................................12
A. Acknowledgement
Throughout the course of this project, I had a great deal of support and direction from a wide
range of individuals, and I am grateful for this. I'd want to take this opportunity to thank
everyone who has helped me get to this point.

I will always be grateful to Dr. G.S. Bajpai, RGNUL's Vice Chancellor, for giving me the
chance to present my research and my abilities at such a prestigious institution as RGNUL.

I am grateful to Mr. Aashish for giving me the chance to work on a project at RGNUL and
for his assistance and advice, which helped me finish the assignment on time. He has been a
great source of encouragement and support, and I'm grateful for that. Even though he had a
full plate managing the company's day-to-day operations, he took a personal interest in our
project and aided us throughout the whole process, even though he had a full plate handling
the company's day-to-day operations.

All of the teachers that worked with us on this project were really helpful, and I am grateful
to have had their encouragement, support, and direction throughout the process. I'd want to
express my gratitude to the IT lab and library employees that helped me with my study.

Shashank Upadhyay
B. Bonafide Certificate
This certificate certifies that the project based on the theme of ROLE MODEL IN SPROTS'
is the original piece of Shashank Upadhyay, who is a genuine student of the Rajiv Gandhi
National Institute of Law, Punjab, and has been submitted to the institute for consideration.

SIGNATURE
Shashank Upadhyay
1. Theory of sociology and sports
1.1 Introduction
A subfield of sociology known as sports sociology explores sports as social phenomena and
is a subfield of sociology that investigates sports as a social phenomenon. Applied sports
sociologists critically explore the functions, affects and roles that sports play in a variety of
social settings. It is possible to do study in the sociology of sport while also conducting
research in other subjects such as political science, history, and anthropology (Maguire
2013). This article discusses the history of the sociology of sports as a sub-field of sociology
and the factors that influenced its development. Afterwards, it goes through the four primary
sociological theories that are used in the study of sports, which are detailed in the next
section. Functionalist theory, conflict theory, interactionist theory, and feminist theory are
examples of such theories. Following that, the subjects of gender, race, and ethnicity are
discussed. Final thoughts are offered on the future of the field of sports sociology in the
concluding paragraphs of the paper.

1.2 Origin of Sociology of Sports

In the second part of the twentieth century, sports sociology started to develop as a
recognised academic field. By the 1960s, television had begun to devote significant amounts
of time to sporting events, particularly baseball and football. It was in the United States that
professional leagues for a variety of sports, such as baseball and football, started to form.
This was complemented by the Olympics serving as a Cold War-era training ground for
athletes. This was also an era in which numerous social scientists, including David Reisman,
Charles Page, and Erving Goffman, wrote studies on sports and sports psychology. The North
American Society for the Sociology of Sport (NASS) was established in 1978 with the goal
of furthering research in this discipline. A few years later, in 1984, their research venue, the
Sociology of Sport Journal, was established (see "Sociology of Sport" 2018 for more
information).1

In this regard, it is crucial to highlight that Harry Edwards is often regarded as the creator of
the field of sports sociology. His professional life has lasted more than five decades and has
included positions such as professor, consultant, and athlete-activist. Edwards argued that
sports is a recapitulation of power connections in a society and that, as a result, it is
impossible to create a non-racist sports system in a racist society, according to Edwards. In

1
Available at https://www.sociologygroup.com/sociology-of-sport/ (last accessed December 3rd 2021)
the United States, he has lobbied for more diversity in the NFL, NBA, and Major League
Baseball (MBL), among other sports (O'Neal 2018).

2. Sociological paradigms in sports

The realm of sports may benefit from the use of four basic sociological perspectives.
Functionalist theory, conflict theory, interactionist theory, and feminist theory are examples
of such theories.

2.1 Conflict Theory

Those who subscribe to the conflict theory believe that economic forces affect society, and
therefore sports should be analysed in terms of capitalist growth and economic exploitation.
The sociological application of this thesis is often used to provide light on how sports serve to
maintain the privilege and power of the current elite group within society. This idea, on the
other hand, is seldom utilised in everyday sports discourse since it presents athletics as an
opiate that dulls people's awareness of societal problems. However, this theory has a flaw in
that it primarily focuses the economic aspects of social life and fails to recognise that
participation in sports may be a socially and individually uplifting experience.2

Jean-Marie Brohm is a French sociologist who is best known for her book "Sport: A Prison
of Measured Time," in which she developed a Marxist criticism of organised sports that is
still in use today. Rather than natural physical activities such as exercise, she alluded to the
institutionalisation of mass sports when she was speaking about sports in general. According
to Brohm, sports were a tool employed by the bourgeoisie to subordinate and indoctrinate the
lower classes and working class. Her contributions to the subject of sociology of sports are
significant because she brings to light the fact that sports may serve as a diversion from the
challenges of the real world by whitewashing a variety of real-world issues.

2.2 Functionalist Theory

In accordance with the functionalist theory, each sport is evaluated in terms of its
contributions to the larger world of sports. The positive outcomes of sports for both
individuals and society as a whole are the focus of sociological research conducted in
accordance with this theory. Those who subscribe to this theory place a strong emphasis on
the expansion and development of organised sports. However, this theory has several flaws,
including the fact that it exaggerates the positive impact that sports have on society by

2
Available at https://g4athlete.com/the-importance-of-role-models/ (last accessed December 3rd 2021)
assuming that all social groups benefit equally from participation in sports. Furthermore, it
fails to recognise that sports are social constructions that may be more accessible to a select
group of people when compared to other activities.

2.3 Interactionist Theory

Sport and cultural involvement and interaction are central to the interactionist theory's
analysis of how people's identities are formed and sustained across time. Sports sociologists
strive to make sports organisations less authoritarian and more democratic, and they decry the
hierarchical structure of sports organisations. This theory, on the other hand, overlooks the
importance of power relations in society since it focuses on the micro-level.

2.4 Feminist Theory

Feminist study investigates how sports perpetuate gendered beliefs and practises about
sexuality, physicality, and the body, among other things. Sociologists utilise this theory to
investigate how various sports contribute to the formation of beliefs about masculinity and
femininity, as well as how women are depicted in sports coverage in the media. A second
way in which feminist thinkers engage in social action is by calling attention to
characteristics of sports that systematically favour men over women. They also bring to light
repressive kinds of homophobia and sexism that exist in athletics.

3. Role model in sports

The icons of sport inspire us with visions of what may be, maintain what is good and true
about the sport, and serve as a springboard for those who want to become lifetime
participants in it. Popularity and celebrity, on the other hand, come with hazards. What
happens when these cultural figures are no longer revered? Over the last several years, we
have seen a slew of racial abuse allegations, charges and confessions of football cheating, and
the fall from grace of high-profile athletes who have admitted to doping their way to success.3

What is the effect of this on athletes, both young and old, and on their perceptions of sport,
success, and how to get there as a result of this? A number of studies conducted on role
models have shown that the behaviour and perception of sports, games, and life in general is
strongly impacted by these 'icons' on the part of the young (and not so young!)

3
Available at https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/kb/role-models-and-sport (last accessed December 3rd
2021)
It may truly be a tough and unwanted position to take on at times. Bradley Wiggins famously
said in his book, "I never sought or chose to be a role model." The selected few, whether they
are renowned athletic 'heroes' (I use the term loosely) or those who lead youngsters via sport,
are, nonetheless, a select group of individuals.

3.1 Roles Model Defined

People who an athlete looks up to in life are role models — for the way they achieve success
in their sport, the way they have aligned their training and mental edge for maximum gains,
and the way they have inspired others outside of the sport. Role models can be anyone who
has achieved success in their sport.4

Role models guide us down the road of life, assisting us in making difficult life choices and
motivating us to remain on track in order to achieve our ultimate objectives. The following
are some considerations to bear in mind while you select your ideal role model:

Ideally, a role model is someone with whom you have regular interaction. Despite the fact
that Drew Brees is an inspirational person and that you can learn a lot from watching him
play football and reading his interviews, his effect on your life pales in contrast to the
influence of a role model who has the ability to directly touch your life.

3.2 Role models can be positive and negative

A role model has an impact on you both on and off the field. In addition to the well-known
comment from Charles Barkley previously noted, he added that a million men may dunk a
basketball while in prison, according to ESPN. If there are issues off the field that are
apparent or in dispute, don't pick a role model purely on perceived on-field achievement.

3.3 Encouragement is important

Role models motivate you to achieve your goals in sport and in life. They appreciate what
you do well and urge you to improve in areas where you need a little more practise. They
have seen the broad picture and can assist you in moving closer to your objectives. To be
sure, role models are flawed individuals who make errors, but the finest ones recognise the
importance of both positive and negative experiences in life. They are usually upbeat and
encouraging, guiding you toward attainable objectives.

4
Available at https://www.ukcoaching.org/resources/topics/expert-opinions/the-impact-of-role-models-on-
players-and-coaching (last accessed December 3rd 2021)
3.4 The Perfect Mix of Skill and Character
A role model must be a great combination of talent and character traits. When it comes to
sports and life, role models may be really helpful. While Charles Barkley believes that
athletes should not serve as role models, the fact is that anybody may serve as a role model if
you have access to them, they offer value to your life both on and off the field, and they stay
focused on encouraging you to reach your objectives.

4. Qualities of a role model

4.1 Always sets of good examples
We're concerned with assisting children in achieving success in life via athletics, therefore
you want a role model that exhibits appropriate behaviour both on and off the field. Examine
whether or not the athlete is an example of leadership among his or her teammates as well as
in the wider community. An athlete who sets a good example is someone who does not
dispute with officials or other players and who is appreciated by all players and coaches
throughout the competition. Many sportsmen utilise their power and fortune to make a good
difference in their communities as well as internationally. Pro players have volunteered in
children's hospitals and schools, and some have even purchased houses for families who are
less fortunate than themselves.

4.2 Optimistic
Sports are a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows (just like life). Athletes that are upbeat and
cheerful are excellent role models for young people. Your youngster may benefit much from
athletes who keep their heads up and remain motivated even when the results are not in their
favour, or athletes who have something nice to say even after a defeat. "A pessimist sees the
difficulty in every chance; an optimist sees the opportunity in every trouble," Winston
Churchill famously observed. Athletes (and children) who have faith in their abilities will
achieve greater success in sports and in life.

4.3 Speaks out and respect Everyone

A great sports model utilises their position of power to speak up and protect others who are
less fortunate. These sportsmen stand up for the underdog and provide a helping hand to
those in need. Bullying has recently been a popular subject among parents and children alike,
making it imperative that children learn to protect one another. Several well-known athletes
have taken use of their celebrity to advocate for gender equality and promote a good body
image.

There are many of excellent sports role models available for your children. And it isn't
always the case that they are only seen in the "major" sports like football or basketball.
Tennis, track, swimming, and a variety of other sports have athletes who are making a good
effect in their communities throughout the globe. Talk about the experiences of these role
models with your children, and urge them to select their own role model.

5. Role model in sports - MS Dhoni

There are no words to adequately express the magnitude of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the
crown gem of Indian cricket. From his beginnings as an ordinary ticket collector in the little
hamlet of Kharagpur to becoming the most successful Indian captain has been nothing short
of spectacular for him throughout his career.

For more than a decade, the former Indian captain has been on national service, shouldering
the weight of more than a billion people's hopes and expectations. The responsibility of being
accountable for the pleasure and happiness of a nation in which cricket is more than a game, a
country in which cricketers are revered as gods, Mahendra Singh Dhoni has lived up to the
expectations of his fans and supporters every time he has gone onto the field. The great
accomplishment he has accomplished during the process is unparalleled, and it is something
he can be really pleased of. Although it has not been an easy road for him, he has overcome
several obstacles in order to achieve his goals, which has made him a role model for others
who give up on their aspirations much too quickly. Dhoni has been a source of inspiration for
everyone, encouraging individuals to pursue their dreams despite the many challenges in their
way.5

He exploded onto the scene, quickly being known as a serious batter of the cricket ball, and
he began his career by filling in as a pinch hitter for the rest of the team. His knock of 148
made the world aware that he was on his way to become a celebrity. Prior to enjoying the
fame that comes with being an Indian cricketer, he was tasked with the responsibility of
guiding a youthful Indian team to victory in the 2007 T-20 World Cup. Nobody anticipated
India to win, and the selection of Dhoni as captain was only a formality on the part of the
board of directors, who were well aware of the team's eventual destiny. But what they were
5
Available at https://crictoday.com/cricket/mahendra-singh-dhoni-a-role-model/ (last accessed December 3rd
2021)
unaware of was the dramatic reversal that was about to take place in Indian cricket, which
had been in disarray since the country's elimination from the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2007.
India won the World Cup under Dhoni's leadership. But more significant than the victory
itself was the conviction he sowed in the squad, which was that they were capable of
performing and winning against the greatest under any circumstances. Since then, he has
elevated Indian cricket to unprecedented heights, shattering every record he has set as a
batsman and as a captain.6

Then came 2011, when the cricketing carnival was ready to begin, and the anticipation and
dreams of becoming the 50-over World Champions for the second time were at all-time
highs. India appeared to be faltering in the final stages after losing the top order cheaply in
the final, but the world witnessed a great man, a great captain, and a great player once again
rising to the occasion and playing the greatest knock in World Cup history to bring the
dreams of his people to fruition. As a result of India's victory in the World Cup, Dhoni has
established himself as the best Indian captain of all time. Further down the line, India went on
to win the Champions Trophy and establish themselves as the world's best test team.7

While he had a few snags in his Test Captaincy career after 4-0 drubbings against England
and Australia, which ultimately led to his retirement from the format for which he was not
suited, he is still considered to be India's greatest captain of all time. When compared to
2011, when Geoffrey Boycott compared the Indian team to Alsatian, the Indian team today is
considered to be the most dominant team in the world, and the reason for this transformation
is none other than Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who provided numerous opportunities to players
like Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan to build up his own team, a team that now dominates
the world of cricket. Even if Mahendra Singh Dhoni is no longer the captain or the player he
used to be, the mere mention of his name is enough to instil dread in the hearts of the other
team's players. Some individuals have forgotten about his contributions, but the vast majority
of people are still proud to be associated with him. "Legacy is not what is left behind after
you pass away; rather, it is what you give, produce, affect, and contribute today while you are
still alive that occurs to live on after you pass away." It seems that M.S. Dhoni is a firm
believer in this phrase. It is impossible not to be inspired by his remarkable legacy and
character.

6
Available at https://crictoday.com/cricket/mahendra-singh-dhoni-a-role-model/ (last accessed December 3rd
2021)
7
Available at https://crictoday.com/cricket/mahendra-singh-dhoni-a-role-model/ (last accessed December 3rd
2021)
6. Bibliography
1. Available at https://crictoday.com/cricket/mahendra-singh-dhoni-a-role-model/ (last
accessed December 3rd 2021)
2. Available at https://www.ukcoaching.org/resources/topics/expert-opinions/the-impact-of-
role-models-on-players-and-coaching (last accessed December 3rd 2021)
3. Available at https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/kb/role-models-and-sport (last
accessed December 3rd 2021)
4. Available at https://g4athlete.com/the-importance-of-role-models/ (last accessed December
3rd 2021)
5. Available at https://www.sociologygroup.com/sociology-of-sport/ (last accessed December
3rd 2021)