In 2006 several Australian newspapers published
articles about the presence of Pacific Islander youth in urban
crime and rugby. Daniel Lane explained “(n)ow Islanders with
the perfect body shape for these power sports are beginning to
dominate.” Penrith
Tigers coach Mark Geyer agreed, “they generally have the
qualities NRL talent scouts crave - size, speed and strength.” Apart
from the references to the physicality of these young men, Barret
goes on to justify their psychological suitability for the game
by claiming that "they also come from a tough, hard culture
that has bred them for a physical game like rugby league.” So
why is it that Australians have the perception that Pacific Islander
males are bred for rugby? What representations have formed and
continue to perpetuate this stereotype of the aggressive island
warrior?
Lane,
D. (2006) ‘Islanders in junior leagues, it's a really
big issue’ , 16 July 2006, Sun Herald,
p.96.
Mark
Geyer, Coach, Penrith Tigers quoted in D. Lane, ‘Islanders
in junior leagues, it's a really big issue’ , 16 July
2006, Sun Herald, p.96.
Lane,
D. (2006) ‘Islanders in junior leagues, it's a really
big issue’ , 16 July 2006, Sun Herald,
p.96.
Read more...
|
