ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to suggest some of the complexities involved in a sociological analysis of the body in Welsh rugby and to highlight some opportunities for qualitative research. Since rugby is often said to be central to Welsh identity, a critical perspective on contemporary Welsh society ought to attempt to deconstruct the social meanings of the game. Although participation in women's rugby is growing, it has neither hegemonic position in the culture of many Welsh communities nor the symbolic importance to national identity that men's rugby has. Brian Roberts' research found that rugby was very often cited as an image of 'Welshness' by residents of the South Wales valleys. There is potential for research on the embodiment of first class rugby players, who are often high profile figures in Welsh media and in local communities. An analysis of images of male rugby players in the Welsh media would contribute to the literature on representations of gendered bodies in the media.
