Women in self-managed softball practice in Querétaro

Abstract

The organization of women for sports practice has historically been stigmatized, being classified as "rebellious" and, consequently, penalized. This stigma has contributed to a significant lag in women's participation in sports, adversely affecting their physical and mental health, as well as interrupting the forms of organization and sisterhood among them. This research focuses on a description study that examines the experience of women in Querétaro who practice sports in a self-managed way, specifically in the field of softball. The study narrates the dynamics of the organization in terms of leadership, motivation, influence and interaction with authorities. The practices implemented for the appropriation of sports spaces and the empowerment that allows women to develop in public spaces are analyzed. The design of the study includes in-depth interviews and the application of a structured data collection tool through a questionnaire in google forms. The findings of the study reveal that women, by practicing sports together, transform their immediate reality and social context. This is manifested in the creation of support networks and the implementation of motivational strategies that encourage active participation. Based on the findings obtained, concrete recommendations are proposed to promote the inclusion of women in sport, both at the local and institutional levels.