ABSTRACT
The historical, economic, sociological, cultural, and psychological importance of football fandom has been explored and analyzed in research since the 1960s. Nearly all studies have been based on the premise that the supporter is male, and that supporter culture as a whole is a male phenomenon (Armstrong, 1998; Giulianotti, 2002). Supporter culture has also been perceived as thoroughly embedded in a hegemonic masculinity (Connell, 1995). There is a distinct lack of research on female supporters, both nationally and internationally (Hynes, 2012). The chapter will focus on women’s experiences as football supporters, their relationship with football and fandom, and how these relationships are defined and interpreted. The study will focus on interaction through social media. The body, physical location, and geographic belonging are dissolved in online interaction. While in the stands one is represented by one’s sex, being either male or female, one’s “digital identity” can be chosen freely. The analysis of female fandom will be enhanced by sociologist Erving Goffman’s theories of social interaction, the dramaturgical perspective, stigma, onstage and backstage, as well as through Judith Butler’s theories on performative gender. This study is based on media analysis and interviews. Online chat forums (Svenska Fans, MFF Support, Ultra Tifos, and Bajen Fans (Hammarby, Stockholm)) and interviews with female supporters who are active participants in these forums are analyzed.
