ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the notion of gender as an evolving, embodied, sociocultural construct that shapes how individuals move in and interact with the world, including experiences of gender-based violence, will be addressed. To understand gender and gender-based violence means acknowledging the overlapping systems of oppression which shape experiences of gender. The three structures of cissexism, binarism, and sexism shape and are shaped by gender and are intimately related to gendered violence. These structures also overlap with other systems of oppression—colonialism and colonisation, racism, ableism, homophobia. Given the historical roots of sport, structured along binary genders, there is a long way to go to realise safe and inclusive sport experiences for all. Recommendations for understanding gender-based violence include moving beyond the current focus on athlete’s identity to the structures of oppression that make sport environments conducive to violence.
