What do cultural theories suggest about changing sports?

Cultural theories emphasize that sports are deeply intertwined with societal values, beliefs, and ideologies. When these foundational aspects of culture evolve, sports must also undergo transformation to stay relevant and responsive to the needs and attitudes of the community. This perspective holds that for genuine change to occur, it must be rooted not merely in logistical or operational adjustments (such as financial restructuring), but in a fundamental shift in the values and ideologies that govern the way sports are perceived and played.

For instance, as societal attitudes toward gender equality, inclusivity, and diversity shift, sports can evolve to reflect these new values, promoting more equitable participation and representation across the board. The notion that change stems from altering the underlying beliefs and practices within a sport allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how to adapt and innovate in response to a changing cultural landscape.

The focus on deeper ideological change contrasts sharply with the idea that sports should only undergo financial restructuring, as financial changes may not address the core societal issues affecting how sports function and are experienced by participants and spectators. Similarly, concentrating solely on external factors ignores the internal dynamics of sports culture that can significantly influence change. Lastly, claiming that change is unnecessary underestimates the importance of adaptation in a social context where values and priorities evolve