Staff Profiles

Modules taught

Adam is module leader for: 

• Professional Skills in Sport & Coaching Sciences (SPOR4007)
• An Introduction to the Sociology of Sport (SPOR4004)
• Work Experience (SPOR5015)

Adam also teaches on:

• Professional Practice in Sport, Coaching and Physical Education 
• Advanced Social Theory for Sports Coaching
• Independent Study 
• Dissertation 

Supervision

Oxford Brookes University

Connor Humperies: Comparing Two Generations of Men and Women on their Attitudes toward Homosexuality and Gender Identity in Team Sports (Dr Astrid Schloerscheidt, Dr Adam J. White and Dr Simon Phelan).

Ed Daly: An investigation into concussion identification, management and reduction (Dr Patrick Esser, Dr Adam J White and Dr Lisa Ryan). 

Bonnie Lunn: Antisemitism in English football: a case study of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club' (Dr Peter Wright, Dr Stuart Whigham and Dr Adam J. White).  

Jessica Mortimore: An investigation into the experiences of bisexual athletes in sport (Prof Nick Rummens and Dr Adam J White)

University of Winchester

Gary Turner: Taking the hits: An exploration to the risks faced from head impacts on the behaviour of fight sports athletes (Prof Eric Anderson, Dr Cassie Richardson, Dr Adam J White)

Research group membership

Co-Lead of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Research, Innovation and Knowledge Exchange network

Centre for Movement, Occupational and Rehabilitation Science (MOReS)

Books

• Anderson E, White AJ, Sport, Theory and Social Problem: A Critical Introduction, 2nd Edition, Routledge (2018)
  ISBN: 9781138699908 eISBN: 9781315515816
  Abstract https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/9781315515809
  In a revised, updated, and considerably expanded new edition of Sport, Theory and Social Problems, authors Eric Anderson and Adam White examine how the structure and culture of sport promotes inequality, injury, and complicity to authority at the non-elite levels of play in Anglo-American countries. By introducing students to a research-led perspective on sport, it highlights the operation of power, patriarchy, and pain that a hyper-competitive sporting culture promotes.
  Each chapter includes at least one key social theory, which is made accessible and pragmatic. The theory is then infused throughout the chapter to help the student engage with a deeper understanding of sport. In addition to examining how sport generates otherness, distracts children from education, and teaches the acceptance of emotional and physical violence, this new edition also examines how organized, competitive sport divides us by race, denies children the right to their own governance, and promotes brain trauma and chronic traumatic encephalopathy in those who are too young to consent to play contact sports. Sport, Theory and Social Problems: A Critical Introduction is an essential textbook for any sport studies degree with a focus on the sociology of sport, sport and social theory, children’s health and wellbeing, or sport and gender studies.Website 

Journal articles

• Hardwicke J, Reed J, Anderson E, Batten J, White AJ, 'Decision-making in the physical education curriculum: an analysis of the student voice in English secondary state-schools. '
  International Journal of Modern Education Studies 6 (1) (2022) pp.[88]-107
  ISSN: 2618-6209
  Abstract

  Debates surrounding youth participation in governance have permeated a range of fields in the last
  two decades. This commentary is predominately situated in education and civic participation domains,
  with sporting domains remaining largely under researched. Indeed, this research becomes sparser
  when considered in school physical education and sport. In this paper, we consider the position of the
  student within decision-making processes in the physical education curriculum in English secondary
  state-schools. The paper reports on survey data from 288 English secondary state-schools exploring
  students’ involvement in decision-making related to the PE curriculum. Findings show considerable
  numbers of the schools reported no contribution from students to the physical education curriculum
  (n=54), and processes that were in place were problematic. Drawing on the legal framework of The
  UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, we argue that the lack of student voice in the physical
  education curriculum presents a contemporary policy concern within the English education system
  that requires further investigation.

  Website 
• Scoats R, Anderson E, White AJ, 'Exploring gay men’s threesomes: Normalisation, concerns, and sexual opportunities '
  Boyhood Studies 2 (2) (2021) pp.82-106
  ISSN: 2375-9240 eISSN: 2375-9267
  Abstract

  Although there is now an abundance of research regarding group sex between men, much of the current literature constructs group sex as homogenous and overlooks the nuance of how and why men engage in particular sexual behaviours. Accordingly, this research expands our understanding of group sex through a focus on a specific type of sex: the threesome. The results demonstrate how perspectives on threesomes may develop over time; at first appearing exciting before becoming relatively normalised and indistinct from dyadic sex. Encounters and exposure are fostered through the sexual opportunity structures available, in particular, geo-social networking apps. Despite their normalisation, however, threesomes are not necessarily viewed as risk free. Thus, this research offers new insight and understanding into how gay men engage in group sex, and the contextual factors which make it possible.

  Website 
• Smith M, Young G, Batten J, Parry KD, Collins R, Anderson E, White AJ, 'Athletes with Neurodegenerative Disease: A Phenomenological Exploration of Family Members’ Experiences.'
  Qualitative Report 26 (11) (2021) pp.3492-3518
  ISSN: 1052-0147 eISSN: 2160-3715
  Abstract

  This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with 15 family members (mainly partners and children) of deceased athletes who experienced deterioration in their neurological health towards the end of their life. The purpose of this study was to examine the stressors these family members experienced with the ailed players, their emotional responses to their family member’s condition, as well as the coping strategies they used. Vertical and horizontal thematic analyses were conducted on the data, which revealed five distinct temporal stages, a range of emotional responses, as well as accompanying stressors and coping strategies at each temporal stage. The findings are presented as an ethnodrama, capturing the lived experiences of participants. This ethnodrama aims to resonate with those caring for family members who are experiencing deteriorating neurological health, while also raising awareness of the various emotional responses of the individuals in these situations, as well as inviting dialogue and reflection about these issues. 
  

  Website 
• Magrath R, Batten J, Anderson E, White AJ, 'Five-Year Cohort Study of White British Male Student-Athletes' Attitudes towards Gay Men'
  Journal for the Study of Sports and Athletes in Education Online first (2021)
  ISSN: 1935-7397 eISSN: 1935-7400
  Abstract

  While sport has traditionally been a hostile environment for gay men, attitudes toward homosexuality among youth in the West have changed significantly in recent years. This research uses Herek’s Attitudes Toward Lesbians and Gay Men Scale, Revised Version (ATLG-R) to investigate attitudes toward homosexuality among 243 undergraduate male students in the UK. Overall, results revealed no significant differences in student attitudes toward gay men in the first three years of data collection, but significantly more positive attitudes onward from the fourth. Overall, incoming attitudinal dispositions of homophobia among young male student-athletes were minimal. Anderson’s notion of inclusive masculinities is used to explain these findings, with the results supporting existing literature concerning positive attitudes toward homosexuality among young, sporting men in the UK.
  

  Website 
• Daly E, White Adam, Blackett Alexander D., Ryan Lisa, 'Pressure. A Qualitative Analysis of the Perception of Concussion and Injury Risk in Retired Professional Rugby Players'
  Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 6 (3) (2021)
  ISSN: 2411-5142 eISSN: 2411-5142
  Abstract

  This study interviewed retired professional rugby union players (≤10 years since retirement) to discuss their careers in the game of rugby union. The primary aim of the study was to document their understanding of concussion knowledge and the analogies they use to describe concussion. In addition, these interviews were used to determine any explicit and implicit pressures of playing professional rugby as described by ex-professional rugby players. Overall, 23 retired professional rugby players were interviewed. The participants had played the game of rugby union (n = 23) at elite professional standard. A semi-structured individual interview design was conducted with participants between June to August 2020. The research team reviewed the transcripts to identify the major themes from the interviews using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. Four major themes were identified: (1) medical and theoretical understanding of concussion, (2) descriptions of concussion and disassociated language, (3) personal concussion experience, and (4) peer influences on concussion within the sport. These were further divided into categories and subcategories. The interviews highlighted that players did not fully understand the ramifications of concussive injury and other injury risk, as it became normalised as part of their sport. This normalisation was supported by trivialising the seriousness of concussions and using dismissive language amongst themselves as players, or with coaching staff. As many of these ex-professional players are currently coaching rugby (48%), these interviews could assist coaches in treating concussion as a significant injury and not downplaying the seriousness of concussion in contact sports.
  

  Website 
• Young JA, Ganderton C, White AJ, Batten J, Howarth N, Downie C, Pearce AJ, 'The times are they a-changing? Evolving attitudes in Australian exercise science students’ attitudes towards sports concussion.'
  Journal of Sport and Exercise Science 5 (4) (2021) pp.236-245
  ISSN: 2703-240X eISSN: 2703-240X
  Abstract

  The issue of concussion in sport continues to be discussed widely in the community as current and retired players reveal personal experiences, and concerns, about the long-term sequelae of their concussive injuries. This is the first study to examine evolving attitudes and beliefs towards concussion in sport by comparing data in an Australian exercise science student cohort between 2015 and 2020. Using a repeated cross-sectional design 1,013 participants (2020 cohort: n = 751; 21.6 ± 7.1 years; 2015 cohort: n = 312; 22.0 ± 5.2 years) responded to statements about concussion: personal attitudes; the media’s portrayal; elite athletes who continue to play concussed; if participants would continue to play on concussed; and on completing rehabilitation for concussion. Comparisons revealed statistically significant differences between cohorts across the majority of statements. Specifically, more progressive attitudes were found regarding the media presentation (glorification) of concussed athletes (decreased agreement of 14.7%, p < 0.001), admiration of concussed athletes who continued to play (decreased agreement of 10.5%, p < 0.001), and rehabilitation (increased agreement of 13%, p < 0.001). However, participants still presented attitudes of wishing to continue to train or play if they had a concussion for fear of letting team-mates down, or if the injury was not noticeable. While positive attitudes are evolving, more work is required, particularly as attitudes towards concussion still appear to be situation dependent.
  

  Website 
• Parry K, White AJ, Cleland J, Hardwicke J, Batten J, Piggin J, Howarth N, 'Masculinities, media and the rugby mind: An analysis of stakeholder views on the Relationship between rugby union, the media, masculine-influenced views on injury, and concussion'
  Communication and Sport Online first (2021)
  ISSN: 2167-4795 eISSN: 2167-4809
  Abstract

  Rugby union, alongside other collision and contact sports, faces ever mounting pressure from increased recognition of concussive injuries and the risks they present to athletes, both in the short-term and long-term. Here, the media is a central component of increasing pressure for cultural change. This research analysed data from 524 self-selected survey respondents to examine rugby union fans’ and stakeholders’ perceptions of media portrayal of concussion and how it might influence their own perceptions. We found evidence of a complex and heterogenous relationship between perceptions of masculinity, views and attitudes toward mass media, and degree of involvement in rugby union. Specifically, partisans of the sport generally saw mass media as hostile, with coverage biased against rugby, allowing them to manufacture doubt regarding risk information, as well as maintaining involvement in the sport. We conclude that critical commentaries from the media have the ability to challenge masculinities around concussion.

  Website 
• Pearce AJ, King DA, White AJ, Suter CM, 'Effects of stricter management guidelines on return-to-competition timeframes following concussion in professional Australian Rules football: an exploratory analysis'
  Sports Medicine 51 (2021) pp.2647-2654
  ISSN: 0112-1642 eISSN: 1179-2035
  Abstract

  Background

  Management of concussion remains a serious issue for professional sports, particularly with the growing knowledge on the consequences of repetitive concussion. One primary concern is the subjective assessment of recovery that dictates the time until a concussed athlete is returned to competition. In response to this concern, the Australian Football League (AFL) changed its policy in 2020 such that medical clearance for return-to-competition was extended from one day, to a minimum of five days, prior to the next scheduled match. 

  Objective

  We sought to explore the impact of the AFL policy change by asking whether time to return-to-competition after concussion was increased in the 2020 season relative to previous years.

  Methods

  Retrospective data on injury and return-to-competition were sourced from publicly available tables published by the AFL. Our primary exploration compared the number of matches missed and the number of days missed in concussed players across 2017 to 2020 inclusive, with secondary exploration analysing the proportion of players returning to play 12 days or longer.

  Results

  Analysis of data from 166 concussed players revealed no increase in the number of matches missed in 2020 relative to previous years as would have been expected from an extended recovery protocol. Comparing 2020 relative to 2017-19 we found that there was an overall moderate reduction in median time to return-to-competition (RTC) in 2020 (10 vs 13 days, respectively d=-0.345)) and a significant reduction in players taking more than 12 days to RTC (p=0.046). 

  Conclusion

  This exploratory study demonstrates that clubs may not have followed policy change around concussion management designed to increase time to RTC. Ongoing auditing is required to ensure player clearance meets policy goals, highlighting the need for objective measures for RTC after concussion.

  Website 
• Magrath R, Hill S, White AJ, '“Part and parcel of the game?” Physical education teachers, head trauma, and the Rugby Football Union’s "Headcase" initiative'
  Managing Sport and Leisure Online first (2020)
  ISSN: 2375-0472 eISSN: 2375-0480
  Abstract

  Purpose: This article provides an analysis of British physical education (PE) teachers’ knowledge of and attitudes toward concussion in rugby. 
  Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 qualified PE teachers responsible for rugby delivery in their respective schools (and who also hold a minimum of a Level 2 Rugby Football Union (RFU) accredited coaching award, and have completed the organization’s concussion awareness training initiative, ‘Headcase’). 
  Findings: Due to the absence of appropriate training – both in coaching qualifications and broader teacher training – these teachers lack understanding of signs, symptoms, and aftercare of suspected concussion. Findings also indicate that ‘Headcase’ may be problematic in providing adequate education to ensure PE teachers are adequately prepared should serious injury arise. 
  Implications: Given the findings of this research, we recommend: (1)‘Headcase’ be delivered by a qualified practitioner or form a central part of existing coaching qualifications; (2) Mandatory tackle training to be provided to PE teachers; (3) Mandatory injury logs to be kept by every school in order to better understand the frequency of injury in PE.
  

  Website 
• Magrath R, Batten J, Anderson E, White AJ, 'Examining attitudes toward homosexuality among young, athletic BME men in the UK'
  Sport in Society Online first (2020)
  ISSN: 1743-0437 eISSN: 1743-0445
  Abstract

  This article examines the influence of ethnicity on sporting men’s attitudes towards homosexuality. We employ Herek’s Attitudes Toward Lesbians and Gay Men, Revised Version (ATLG-R) scale to data collected with British undergraduate sports students, as well as interview data with the players of an English Premier League (EPL) football academy, to show that black and minority ethnic (BME) men espouse more conservative attitudes toward homosexuality than their White counterparts. This, we theorize, is attributable to multiple factors, such as socialization into a fundamentalist version of Christianity by family, and the influence of immigration from countries where attitudes toward homosexuality remain more conservative in comparison to the UK. In documenting these findings, this research is consistent with other studies which document higher rates of intolerance among groups of BME men. 
  

  Website 
• White AJ, Magrath R, Morales L, 'Gay male athletes’ coming out stories on Outsports.com'
  International Review for the Sociology of Sport 56 (7) (2020) pp.1017-1034
  ISSN: 1012-6902 eISSN: 1461-7218
  Abstract

  For two decades, Outsports.com – the world’s first website dedicated to the LGBT+ community’s experiences in sport – has provided sexual minority athletes with the opportunity to share their stories. In this research, we examine the published coming-out narratives of 60 out gay male athletes across a variety of different sports. Our analysis indicates that, prior to coming-out, many of these athletes felt the need to adopt an identity predicated on masculine stereotypes, thus distancing themselves from homosexuality. Upon coming-out to teammates, however, most of these athletes experienced acceptance and inclusivity which, in turn, led to improved health and wellbeing. Additionally, we document the changing nature of homosexually themed language on these men’s sports teams. Finally, we recognize the importance of mediums such as Outsports in providing athletes across the world the opportunity to share their coming-out stories. Accordingly, this research advances a body of evidence documenting sport’s growing inclusivity for the LGBT+ community. 
  

  Website 
• White AJ, Parry KD, Humphries C, Phelan S, Batten J, Magrath R, 'Duty of Karius: media framing of concussion following the 2018 UEFA Champions League Final'
  Communication and Sport online first (2020)
  ISSN: 2167-4795 eISSN: 2167-4809
  Abstract

  Concussion is a growing issue within sport, including within soccer. Despite the developing medical understanding of concussion, there is still an array of sociocultural discourses and misconceptions around it. In the 2018 UEFA Champions League Final, Liverpool Football Club goalkeeper Loris Karius suffered a head collision in the 48th minute. Postmatch, he was subsequently diagnosed as being concussed. As a result of his concussion, Karius’ performance was arguably impeded, with suggestions that this may have resulted in him making some key errors in the game. Through an analysis of media framing in 52 news articles in the days following the incident, four dominant frames were identified: deflection away from concussion, misunderstanding concussion, education on concussion, and recommendations. Frames that focussed on the lack of awareness and preventative measures that are present in soccer served to highlight the lack of significance afforded to concussion at this particular point in time. In particular, we highlight differences in concussion discourses between those working inside and outside the soccer industry. Overall, these findings contribute to the growing body of sociological work examining concussion in sport.
  

  Website 
• White AJ, Piggin J, Batten J, Turner G, Pearce AJ, Bullingham R, Anderson E, 'Ethics and injury risk in World Rugby and England Rugby tackle-height trial'
  British Journal of Sports Medicine 55 (2020) pp.183-184
  ISSN: 0306-3674 eISSN: 1473-0480
  Website 
• Whigham S, Hobson M, Batten J, White AJ, 'Reproduction in physical education, society and culture: the physical education curriculum and stratification of social class in England'
  Sport, Education and Society 25 (5) (2020) pp.493-506
  ISSN: 1357-3322 eISSN: 1470-1243
  Abstract

  In contemporary British society, discussions of social class have become relatively marginalised in comparison to their historically eminent position within the domains of politics, social policy and, the specific focus of the forthcoming discussion, education.  However, within the specific field of PE and sport, contemporary academic analyses have continued to highlight various class-based inequalities and evidence of social stratification in relation to these areas of education and society (Evans, 2014; Evans & Bairner, 2013; Evans & Davies, 2008, 2014; Horne et al., 2011).  In light of this, this study seeks to explore the extent to which social class and socio-economic status are evident within the provision of PE within 288 English state secondary education schools (11-18 years of age), drawing upon the findings of a large-scale survey of the activities and qualifications offered within the PE curriculum at each sample school.  Using publicly available data on the comparative provision levels of ‘free school meals’ (henceforth FSM) for pupils as an approximate indicator of the relative levels of socio-economic demographics for each sample school, this study seeks to explore how English state schools with contrasting levels of socio-economic deprivation cater for their students within their PE curriculum.  The emergent results revealed some trends in the relative provision levels of certain activities across schools in different FSM quartiles, with activities such as rugby union, rugby league, Gaelic football, tennis, and field hockey demonstrating stratified provision, as was the case for the provision of accredited academic and vocational qualifications in PE and sport.  These complex and nuanced findings are then critiqued by drawing upon a Bourdieusian theoretical conceptualisation of social class, utilising a number of theoretical concepts derived from Bourdieu’s past analyses of education and sport to critically reflect upon the validity of his theoretical claims when applied to this specific data set.
  

  Website 
• White AJ, Robinson S, Bullingham R, Anderson E, Pollock A, Scoats R, 'The lack of age representation in the governance of rugby union in England'
  Sociology of Sport Journal 36 (4) (2019) pp.300-310
  ISSN: 0741-1235 eISSN: 1543-2785
  Abstract

  Diversity and representation in sport governing bodies has become an issue for both public discussion and academic debate in recent times. Previous work has primarily centered on gender inequalities within the forever changing masculine terrain of sport. However, no work has yet examined the representation and participation of young people in the decision-making structures of sporting bodies. This paper holds up England’s Rugby Union for organizational analysis, using the notion of homologous reproduction as a heuristic framework. In doing so, it explores the reproduction of this governing body for the systematic exclusion of young people in decision-making processes over the last few decades. This framework is then twined with Article 11 of the United Nation’s Convention for the Rights of the Child, to make the case that the RFU desires homologous reproduction in order to avoid dealing with what youth are currently concerned with –head injuries. Given such a high proportion of rugby’s participants being under twenty-five years of age, we conclude the lack of young people within the decision-making process represents a form of willful discrimination.
  

  Website 
• Batten J, Ripley M, Anderson E, Batey J, White AJ, 'Still an Occupational Hazard? The Relationship between Homophobia, Heteronormativity, Student Learning and Performance, and an Openly Gay University Lecturer'
  Teaching in Higher Education 25 (2) (2018) pp.189-204
  ISSN: 1356-2517 eISSN: 1470-1294
  Abstract

  This study examined the complex relationship between homophobia, heteronormativity, and an openly gay lecturer in a British university setting. First, heterosexual undergraduate sports students’ levels of homophobia were recorded. Then, after taught sessions, participants were asked to estimate the frequency of homosexual-heterosexual examples and content used, as well as to complete tests to measure academic progress. This was followed by an end-of-course examination. Results indicated (a) no relationship between levels of homophobia and levels of heteronormativity; (b) that levels of heteronormativity and homophobia were unrelated to a student’s ability to learn from an openly gay lecturer or their examination performance; (c) the presence of an openly gay lecturer significantly reduced homophobia among undergraduate students. These findings offer support to gay educators by highlighting the minimal impact on student learning and performance from being open about their sexuality. Instead, these results suggest that being open about homosexuality could reduce homophobia among undergraduate students.
  

  Website 
• White AJ, Magrath R, Thomas B, 'The experiences of Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual students and staff at a Further Education college in South East England'
  British Educational Research Journal 44 (3) (2018) pp.480-495
  ISSN: 0141-1926 eISSN: 1469-3518
  Abstract Research exploring the educational experiences of LGB students and staff members has traditionally been characterised by homophobia, hostility, victimisation and marginalisation. Recent research has evidenced a shift in the experiences of LGB young people, to somewhat more accepting and positive narratives, including within post-compulsory schooling. Yet, there is limited research exploring the lived experiences of LGB staff members in the Further Education context. Utilising inclusive masculinity as a sociological paradigm, this research explores the qualitative data from the narratives of 26 LGB staff and students at one Further Education college in the South of England. The results find a distinct lack of homophobia within this college, a nuanced understanding of homosexually themed language, an organisational culture of inclusivity and widespread symbolic visibility of the LGB community. Overall, our research aligns with broader social patterns that the experiences for LGB persons is improving.Website 
• White AJ, Batten J, Kirkwood G, Anderson E, Pollock A, '“Pre-Activity Movement Control Exercise Programme to Prevent Injuries in Youth Rugby”: Some Concerns [editorial]'
  British Journal of Sports Medicine 53 (9) (2018) pp.525-526
  ISSN: 0306-3674 eISSN: 1473-0480
  Website 
• White AJ, Robinson S, 'Consent and Brain Trauma in Schools'
  Journal of Physical Education, Recreation and Dance 89 (4) (2018) pp.5-6
  ISSN: 0730-3084 eISSN: 2168-3816
  Abstract Since contact sports such as American football, ice hockey and rugby have a high risk of injury and those injuries have potential long-term implications, both young people and their parent(s) or guardian(s) should be required to give informed consent before participation.Website 
• White AJ, Batten J, Robinson S, Anderson E, Burns A, Batey J, Ryan-Stewart H, Discombe R, 'Tackling in physical education rugby: an unnecessary risk?'
  Injury Prevention 24 (2) (2018) pp.114-115
  ISSN: 1353-8047 eISSN: 1475-5785
  Website 
• Robinson S, White AJ, Anderson E, 'Privileging the Bromance: A Critical Appraisal of Romantic and Bromantic Relationships'
  Men and Masculinities 22 (5) (2017) pp.850-871
  ISSN: 1097-184X eISSN: 1552-6828
  Abstract In this research, utilizing data from thirty semistructured interviews, we examine how heterosexual undergraduate men compare their experiences of bromances to that of their romantic relationships (romances). We find that the increasingly intimate, emotive, and trusting nature of bromances offers young men a new social space for emotional disclosure, outside of traditional heterosexual relationships. Participants state that the lack of boundaries and judgment in a bromance is expressed as emotionally rivalling the benefits of a heterosexual romance. Our participants mostly determined that a bromance offered them elevated emotional stability, enhanced emotional disclosure, social fulfilment, and better conflict resolution, compared to the emotional lives they shared with girlfriends. Thus, this research provides an empirically grounded conceptual framework for understanding men’s view of close homosocial relationships in comparison to their romantic relationship in the twenty-first century.Website 
• Pollock A, White AJ, Kirkwood G, 'Evidence in support of the call to ban the tackle and harmful contact in school rugby: a response to World Rugby'
  British Journal of Sports Medicine 51 (15) (2017)
  ISSN: 0306-3674 eISSN: 1473-0480
  Abstract In a paper published in BJSM (June 2016), World Rugby employees Ross Tucker and Martin Raftery and a third coauthor Evert Verhagen took issue with the recent call to ban tackling in school rugby in the UK and Ireland. That call (to ban tackling) was supported by a systematic review published in BJSM. Tucker et al claim that: (1) the mechanisms and risk factors for injury along with the incidence and severity of injury in youth rugby union have not been thoroughly identified or understood; (2) rugby players are at no greater risk of injury than other sports people, (3) this is particularly the case for children under 15 years and (4) removing the opportunity to learn the tackle from school pupils might increase rates of injuries. They conclude that a ban ‘may be unnecessary and may also lead to unintended consequences such as an increase in the risk of injury later in participation.’ Here we aim to rebut the case by Tucker et al. We share new research that extends the findings of our original systematic review and meta-analysis. A cautionary approach requires the removal of the tackle from school rugby as the quickest and most effective method of reducing high injury rates in youth rugby, a public health priority.Website 
• Bullingham R, White AJ, Batten J, 'Response to: "Don’t let kids play football": a killer idea'
  British Journal of Sports Medicine 51 (20) (2017)
  ISSN: 0306-3674 eISSN: 1473-0480
  Website 
• Robinson S, Anderson E, White AJ, 'The Bromance: Undergraduate Male Friendships and the Expansion of Contemporary Homosocial Boundaries'
  Sex Roles 78 (1/2) (2017) pp.94-106
  ISSN: 0360-0025 eISSN: 1573-2762
  Abstract The present study provides the first known qualitative examination of heterosexual undergraduate men’s conceptualization and experiences of the bromance, outside research on cinematic representations. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 30 undergraduate men enrolled in one of four undergraduate sport-degree programs at one university in the United Kingdom, we find these heterosexual men to be less reliant on traditional homosocial boundaries, which have previously limited male same-sex friendships. Contrary to the repressive homosociality of the 1980s and 1990s, these men embrace a significantly more inclusive, tactile, and emotionally diverse approach to their homosocial relationships. All participants provided comparable definitions of what a bromance is and how it operates, all had at least one bromantic friend, and all suggested that bromances had more to offer than a standard friendship. Participants described a bromance as being more emotionally intimate, physically demonstrative, and based upon unrivalled trust and cohesion compared to their other friendships. Participants used their experiences with romances and familial relations as a reference point for considering the conditions of a bromance. Results support the view that declining homophobia and its internalization has had significantly positive implications for male expression and intimacy. Conclusions are made about the bromance’s potential to improve men’s mental health and social well-being because participants indicate these relationships provide a space for emotional disclosure and the discussion of potentially traumatic and sensitive issues.Website 
• White AJ, Hobson M, 'Teachers' stories: physical education teachers' constructions and experiences of masculinity within secondary school physical education'
  Sport, Education and Society 22 (8) (2017) pp.905-918
  ISSN: 1357-3322 eISSN: 1470-1243
  Abstract Physical education (PE) and sport have traditionally been identified by scholars as a key mechanism for the production and reproduction of a culturally esteemed ideal of masculinity, premised upon being stoic, strong, competitive, sexist and homophobic. Yet, more recent research reflects a change in valued masculinity as a response to declining cultural homohysteria. As such, this preliminary study looks to establish how PE teachers understand and construct masculinities within the educational environment. Through in-depth interviews, we find participants recognised many elements of softer masculinities, described in inclusive masculinities literature, as being performed by contemporary teenagers. This includes being emotionally open, embracing a more effeminate taste in dress and being increasingly physically tactile. However, we also found that the PE teachers have a cohort variance in their masculine values, with those socialised in sport through the 1980s showing the most orthodox and oppressive views.Website 
• Murray A, White AJ, 'Twelve not so angry men: Inclusive masculinities in Australian contact sports'
  International Review for the Sociology of Sport 52 (5) (2017) pp.536-550
  ISSN: 1012-6902 eISSN: 1461-7218
  Abstract Sport’s utility in the development of a conservative orthodox ideal of masculinity based upon homophobia, aggression and emotional restrictiveness, is well evidenced in critical masculinities scholarship. However, contemporary research is reflecting a more nuanced understanding of male behaviour in many Western contexts, with men performing softer and more inclusive versions of masculinities. Through exploring the experiences of twelve Australian contact sport athletes, this research establishes findings to support the growing body of inclusive masculinities research. Results show that these men value a softer representation of masculinity based upon pro-gay sentiments and being emotionally open; while often being critical of aspects of orthodox masculinities which male team sport previously promoted.Website 
• White AJ, Robinson S, 'Boys, Inclusive Masculinities and Injury: Some Research Perspectives'
  Boyhood Studies 9 (2) (2016) pp.73-91
  ISSN: 2375-9240 eISSN: 2375-9267
  Abstract The social function of sport has traditionally been to develop an economically efficient workforce and to prevent young men from becoming effeminate, and by extension homosexual. However, since the 1980s both the social positioning of homosexuality has changed, as has the economic requirements of the Anglo-American workforce. As such, the social function of contemporary sport is negated. With modern athletes now opting for softer masculine presentations, we start the debate on the intersection of sport, health, and inclusive masculinities, an area lacking scholarly attention so far. Through exploring masculinity-challenging discourses, participation rates and athletes’ self-withdrawal from sport when injured, we begin to theorize how modern athletes may view potentially risky and injurious sporting activities, showing that boys today are less inclined to engage in injurious activities, and, when they do, opting for softer and safer strategies.Website 
• Murray A, White AJ, Scoats R, Anderson E, 'Constructing Masculinities in the National Rugby League's Footy Show'
  Sociological Research Online 21 (3) (2016)
  ISSN: 1360-7804 eISSN: 1360-7804
  Abstract The research uses content analysis and inclusive masculinity theory in order to explore and explain the construction of esteemed and subjugated masculinities within the context of Australia’s National Rugby League’s (NRL) Footy Show. Results suggest that despite previous research on NRL players, which finds inclusive masculinities dominate, this television show instead attempts to construct orthodox versions of masculinity. We suggest that the Footy Show thus occupies a liminal state in regards to masculinities; attempting to portray, construct and endorse orthodox masculinities, whilst showcasing athletes that more closely align with the social trends of inclusive masculinities. Website 
• Batten J, White AJ, Anderson E, Bullingham R, 'From management to prevention: the new cure for sports concussion'
  British Journal of Sports Medicine 50 (21) (2016)
  ISSN: 0306-3674 eISSN: 1473-0480
  Website 
• Batten J, White AJ, Anderson E, 'Preventing penalty corner injuries and head trauma in field hockey: time to consider the power play? [editorial]'
  British Journal of Sports Medicine 50 (11) (2016)
  ISSN: 0306-3674 eISSN: 1473-0480
  Website 

Book chapters

• White AJ, 'The Issue of Athlete Welfare and Why Tackling Should be Removed from Physical Education and School Sport: #BanTackling' in Lang M (ed.), Routledge Handbook of Athlete Welfare, Routledge (2020)
  ISBN: 9780367193256 eISBN: 9780429201745
  Abstract

  In March 2016, the Sport Collision Injury Collective called upon the UK government to remove tackling from schools’ physical education and school sport. This is because 1) tackling is the leading cause of injury in rugby, 2) rugby has a level of risk that is higher than non-contact sports, 3) there is no requirement or need for tackling as part of the physical education and school sport curriculum, and 4) many children are compelled to participate in contact rugby as part of the physical education and school sport curriculum. This debate has typically contested issues of informed consent and acceptable levels of risk, both issues being firmly positioned in the sociopolitical realm. It is this social concern that I will attend to in this chapter, concluding that the removal of contact in physical education and school sport is both the only logical and viable solution available at this time.
  

  Website 
• Humphries C, Gaston L, Magrath R, White AJ, 'Exploring the attitudes towards homosexuality of a semi-professional Swedish football team with an openly gay teammate' in The Palgrave Handbook of Masculinity and Sport, Palgrave (2019)
  ISBN: 9783030197988 eISBN: 9783030197995
  Abstract

  The last 20 years has seen a significant shift in attitudes toward homosexuality in sport. Despite this, there is still a common perception that football is a homophobic environment—thus preventing gay professional players coming out. This research examines the experiences of Anton Hysèn, an openly gay semi-professional footballer in Sweden. Using an online survey, we investigate his current teammates’ attitudes toward homosexuality, and having an openly gay player on the team. Results indicate that the vast majority of participants espoused positive attitudes toward homosexuality, and often go to great lengths to support Hysèn. This research thus contributes to a body of existing work documenting the football industry’s growing tolerance of homosexuality in the game.

  Website 

Other publications

• White AJ, Franks B, 'Film Review: Concussion (2015) Sony Pictures Entertainment'
  International Review for the Sociology of Sport 54 (8) (2019) pp.1020-1024ISSN: 1012-6902 eISSN: 1461-7218
  Website 

Conferences

White, AJ., Batten, J., Bullingham, R. & Anderson, E. Concussion in sports coaching and physical education: Issues of attitudes, knowledge and informed consent [Extended seminar]. (University of Worcester, 4th September 2019).

White, AJ. OutSports.com: The experiences of LGB athletes. (University of Winchester, 28th June 2019).

White, AJ. Concussion in sports coaching and physical education: Issues of attitude, knowledge and informed consent (University of Worcester, 4th September 2019).

Anderson, E & White, AJ. [Keynote] Schools’ Rugby as Institutional Child Abuse (European College of Sport Science, 5th July 2019). Available: https://youtu.be/0S5AUYm6Y1U

White, AJ. Inaction as a form of action: The British Government responses to the call to ban tackling in schools’ rugby (European College of Sports Science, 4th July 2019).

White, AJ. OutSports.com: The experiences of LGB athletes. (University of Winchester, 28th June 2019).

White AJ. Injury, Risk and Consent in Physical Education and School Sport. International Perspectives on Safeguarding the Child in Sport (Chichester University, 20th September 2017).

White AJ. The Bromance. Doing Sex: Men, Masculinities and Sexual Practices (Newcastle University, 13th & 14th July 2017).

Anderson, E. & White AJ. Banning the schools’ rugby tackle: academic initiative and inept governmental response to protect children from compelled child abuse, Sport and Politics Study Group Annual Conference 2017. Sport Policy and Politics: The Inequality Gap (Manchester Metropolitan University, 16th & 17th March 2017).

White, AJ. Inclusive Colleges: The experiences of sexually diverse students and staff atone further education college in England, Centre for Gender Studies Spring Symposium (University of Winchester, 11th March 2017).

White, AJ. #BanTackling: Why we are calling for a ban of tackling in school rugby, Rugby Science Network 2016 Conference (University of Bath, 13th and 14th September 2016).

White, AJ. Inclusive Masculinity Theory: Sports’ Role in the Liberation of Male Gender, Sport Discrimination Conference (Leeds Beckett University, 9th September 2016).

White, AJ. & Anderson, E. Should rugby tackling be banned in schools? British Science Festival (Swansea University, 8th September 2016).

Thomas, B. & White, AJ. Sexual Diversity in Further Education. Centre for Sex and Gender Sexuality, Durham University (Durham University, 22nd July 2016).

White, AJ. The Acceptance of Homosexuality in at the Rugby Football Union. The World in Union: Rugby, Past, Present and Future. (University of Brighton, 10-12 September 2015).

White, AJ. Teachers Stories: Masculinities within secondary school physical education. Centre for Sex and Gender Sexuality, Durham University (Durham University, 3rd July 2015).

White, AJ. The Declining Significance of Homophobia, The Improved Experience for Homosexuality: Further Education in 2015. Graduate School of Education Doctoral Conference (University of Bristol, 1st June 2015).

White, AJ. “Can we stop assuming sport is homophobic?”: The experiences of an openly gay sports administrator in an English Sport’s National Governing Body?. Sports, Genders and Sexualities – Social, Ethical and Political Challenges (University of the Littoral Opal Coast, Dunkirk, 5-7 May 2015).

White, AJ. The Declining Significance of Homophobia, The Improved Experience for Homosexuality: Further Education in 2015. Sex(y) Seminar (Northumberland University, 30th April 2015).

White, AJ. Further Education and the Inclusion of Sexual Diversity: The Narratives of both Staff and Students. Post-Graduate Research Symposium (University of Winchester, 27th April 2015).

Further information

Website

Twitter

Google Scholar