The Role Of Gender Identity In 'Throwing Like A Girl'

Throughout the 4 texts, I chose to write about, Whip It, Throwing Like A Girl, The Mighty Oak, and What I Learned From Getting Knocked Around all have something in common—especially violence within gender and how the roles of males are different than females. Physical contact from all sports especially hockey and football enhances the risk in injuries. One prevalent theme in sports literature is the exploration of gender identity. In "Whip It," Cross tells the story of Bliss Cavendar, a teenage girl who finds empowerment and self-discovery through roller derby, a physically demanding and traditionally male-dominated sport. The novel challenges societal norms that limit gender roles, as Bliss defies expectations by pursuing her passion for

The story argues that female athletes can compete at the highest levels of physical achievement and that sports can provide a means for women to challenge societal norms and gain agency in their lives. Ryan writes, "Sports can provide a metaphor for a larger life. Sports can inspire. Sports can create hope where there was once only despair." Here, Ryan emphasizes the value of sports and physical activity as a means for women to express themselves, gain confidence, and achieve personal growth. The quote "Derby isn’t just about hitting people, it’s about taking control. You get hit, you take that energy and you give it right back" from "Whip It" relates to the topic of violence and physical contact by highlighting the controlled and strategic nature of the violence in the sport of roller derby. The quote suggests that violence in the sport is not just about inflicting harm on others, but about taking control of the situation and the momentum of the game. It also implies that the athletes in the sport have agency and control over how they respond to physical contact, and that they are encouraged to give back as good as they get. The quote suggests that the violence in the sport is not senseless, but rather purposeful and strategic, and that it can be a way to assert oneself and take control in a controlled and safe

Fallows argues that these stereotypes are rooted in societal expectations and can perpetuate a dangerously violent view of femininity. He notes that girls are often discouraged from participating in sports that involve physical contact, as they are seen as inherently weaker than boys. This can impact how violence is understood and valued in different contexts, limiting opportunities for girls and women to develop their physical confidence and abilities. Fallows states, "If we deny to half the population the opportunities to develop the physical confidence and familiarity with taking risks that are part of athletic participation, we are denying them access to essential aspects of their full humanity." This quote highlights the importance of encouraging both boys and girls to participate equally in sports and physical activities, and the negative consequences of limiting opportunities based on gendered stereotypes. Fallows also notes that these stereotypes can impact how violence is perceived in society. He argues that the idea of "throwing like a girl" reinforces the stereotype that women are inherently weaker than men, and that this belief can lead to a dangerously violent view of femininity. By limiting opportunities for girls and women to develop their physical abilities, society perpetuates the notion that violence is a