Sport plays an important role in the cultural and social identity of Australians. Its potential to influence the physical, social, personal and moral development of youth is of ongoing interest to teachers, coaches, policymakers, researchers and parents.

Based on recent research, Youth Sport in Australia provides an overview of contemporary issues related to youth sport that affect the experience and participation of youth, and create lifelong attitudes to physical activity.

Youth Sport in Australia explores the history and policy development of youth sport in the Australian context, the role of sport and physical education in private and public schools, and community clubs. The book investigates the conflict between elite and grassroots sport and its repercussions on policymaking and youth involvement in sport, and the impact of coaches on youth sport participation. It looks at child protection issues, the construction of gender and body image, and the experiences of Indigenous and marginalised. It examines the influence of media and sporting celebrities on young people, and reviews the research methodology of youth sport studies.

Youth Sport in Australia will be an invaluable resource for teachers, coaches, policymakers and researchers in sport sociology, sport history, sport and youth studies.