Modernism and postmodernism in professional Rugby League in England

Journal/Book: Sociol Sport J. 2000; 17: 1607 N Market St, Champaign, IL 61820-2200, USA. Human Kinetics Publ Inc. 275-294.

Abstract: This paper is concerned with the application of the idea of postmodernism to explain the rapid changes that have occurred in Rugby League in England since 1995 (Rugby League became the name given to a breakaway code of rugby and is distinct from another version of the sport called Rugby Union). Over a period of a few days in April 1995, News Corporation executives and Rugby League officials set up a new ''Super League'' in a deal involving millions of pounds that gave News Corporation sole television rights. The state of Rugby League before 1995 is discussed, and recent changes in the marketing, ownership of clubs, and the rationalization and franchising of the sport are described. It is argued that the idea of postmodern society neglects changes in the sport that can be associated with the extension of rationalization and capitalist relations more typically associated with modernity, although the increasing commodification of the sport is changing its culture in ways that support some theories of postmodern culture.

Note: Article Denham D, Wolverhampton Univ, Sch Humanities & Social Sci, Castle View, Dudley DY3 1HR, W Midlands, ENGLAND

Keyword(s): FOOTBALL

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