Rezension zu: Maddie Breeze: Seriousness and Women’s Roller Derby. Gender, Organization and Ambivalence. London u.a.: Palgrave Macmillan 2015.

Abstract

In her autoethnographic study in the field of sports sociology Maddie Breeze presents a captivating analysis of the roller derby scene. Starting from empirical material she develops a new sociological concept of 'seriousness' and '(wanting-)to-be-taken-seriously' which contrasts with established, linear and normative models – both are re-conceived as a contradictory and ambivalent practice. Thus, Breeze is able to show how new forms of identity and of organization can be successfully established in processes of transformation, without having to negate or dismiss previous ones. A highly recommendable book, not only for sports sociologists.