Abstract
This narrative review examines the acculturation challenges faced by young Muslim
women participating in sports within the multicultural Australian context. Drawing from
20 peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2023, the review identifies four
primary themes: cultural and religious barriers, community expectations and social norms,
institutional limitations and structural barriers, and inclusive programming and strategies
for change. The findings highlight how Islamic principles of modesty, traditional gender
roles, and community pressures hinder sports participation. Institutional factors, such as
the lack of female-only training sessions, culturally appropriate sportswear, and cultural
sensitivity among coaches and administrators, further compound these challenges.
However, the review also reveals promising strategies for fostering inclusivity, including
culturally responsive sports programs, community engagement, and policy-level
interventions. The discussion expands on the implications for practice, theoretical
contributions, policy recommendations, and future research directions. The review
underscores the need for a multifaceted approach that addresses both individual and
systemic barriers to create a more inclusive and empowering sports environment for
young Muslim women in Australia. Ultimately, promoting sports participation among
this demographic is crucial for fostering social cohesion, personal development, and
cultural integration within Australian society.