The Development of Women''s Soccer: Legacies, Participation, and Popularity in Germany

While womens soccer has risen in popularity around the world, research reveals persistent gender discrimination and marginalization of girls and women in the sport. Applying policy feedback theory and econometric analysis, this volume explores the lasting impact of different regimes of gender discrimination on the development of womens soccer in Germany.

Taking reunified Germany as an ideal case for examining the long-term impact of policy legacies, the book explores how the different systems of gender discrimination in divided Germany have influenced the participation and popularity of womens soccer. It analyzes the development of grass- roots girls and womens soccer in different regions, and examines the development of the semi- professional Frauen-Bundesliga and the popularity of the national womens soccer team, which serves as the most important outlet for womens soccer in Germany. Drawing on these analyses, the book assesses the impact of policy legacies, identifies key challenges for the future of womens soccer and offers some practical directions for future development. The evidence presented in this book suggests that the sport has experienced substantial long-term growth but is now in a period of stagnation. The book argues that discrimination against girls and womens soccer has long- lasting effects and that the policy priorities adopted by soccers governing bodies, local clubs, as well as television operators, have huge significance for the longer-term development of the game.

This is fascinating reading for students and researchers of sport sociology, womens sport, sports economics, sport development, sport management, and gender studies as well as decision makers within the soccer sector. It is also a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, sport officials, and womens soccer activists.