Dedication and Determination
The Art of Athletics: Student Films Make Sport into Art
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Annie Kloppenberg
This study shares context for and content from the course "The Art of Athletics: Choreography for the Camera." In this course, University students are guided to borrow movement from athletics, repurpose it through choreographic and cinematographic logics, and create a dance film. Most students in the class identify as athletes, not dancers, and the course encourages students to begin to identify the complexity of their athletics-based embodied knowledge and to think about how to re-articulate it both intellectually and re-contextualize it as a new aesthetic product, framed for the screen.
Sport as a Tool to Accept the Body for Individuals with Disabilities : A Biopsychosocial Exploration of Self-identity and Self-determination
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Sarah Green
Individuals who endure a sudden onset of disability often face biopsychosocial suffering as they see their body as ‘less able’ or ‘defunct’, a negative mindset that can cause grave psychological and social concern. The objectives of the study are to determine if, how and why participation in sport has the ability to help individuals in their rehabilitation process. This research highlights the purpose and meaning of sport as a tool to combat wider psychological and social concerns that can be exacerbated by disability, thus adding to theoretical understandings on the psychology and sociology of sport. More precisely, the findings contribute to the academic fields on identity adaptation and self-determination, adding to these domains by highlighting their relation to sport. These findings were achieved by deploying qualitative research methods. Specifically, semi-structured interviews, which underwent thematic investigation using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The results show that sport helps individuals understand and accept their ‘new’ body, promoting positive psychological and social outcomes. It did not however identify if certain sports are more successful than others in achieving this. The research concludes that sport participation generates an acceptance of disability; creating a positive mindset and greater outlook on life by helping individuals realise what they can still achieve by adapting their identity to incorporate their disability, as well as aiding a determination to regain some form of normality. Further work could determine if team or individual pursuits are more effective in this process.
Fammi Ridar la Spada!… The Convergence of Artistry and Precision: A Comparative Study of Fencing and Opera
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Laura Muncaciu
This paper explores the intriguing parallels between the disciplines of fencing and opera, focusing on the shared elements of discipline, precision, and mental focus inherent in both fields, aiming to bridge the gap between sport and art. It is a cross-disciplinary study, drawing from my personal experience as both an opera singer and a fencing enthusiast. Despite their apparent differences—one being a physical sport and the other a performing art—fencing and opera require a similar depth of training, attention to detail, and psychological resilience. The study delves into how both fencers and opera singers undergo rigorous discipline in their training, achieving mastery through a relentless dedication to their craft. Precision is examined as a crucial component, not just in the physical execution of fencing movements and vocal techniques in opera, but also in strategic and emotional expression. Furthermore, the paper highlights the significant role of mental focus and resilience, essential for peak performance in both arenas. These parallels underscore a deeper understanding of the skills, dedication, and artistry required in both fencing and opera, revealing a fascinating intersection between the worlds of sports and performing arts.
