An ethnographic exploration of the experiences of asylum seekers within direct provision undertaking a local cricket training course

Amujo, Diekololaoluwa Prophecy

An ethnographic exploration of the experiences of asylum seekers within direct provision undertaking a local cricket training course

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DiekololaoluwaProphecyAmujoCARLresearchreport2021.pdf(839.67 KB)

Published Version

Date

2021-04

Authors

Amujo, Diekololaoluwa Prophecy

Publisher

Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork

Abstract

Background: Recent literature has identified that sport plays a major role in the lives of asylum seekers. Findings from academic studies indicate that sports participation by asylum seekers enhances social relationships, bonding, social inclusion and connections with people in society. Several studies have been conducted on the negative impact of Direct Provision on asylum seekers in Ireland. However, there is a paucity of research on cricket participation and the impact on asylum seekers in Direct Provision in Ireland. Aims: The aim of this research study is to explore the impact of cricket participation on asylum seekers living in Direct Provision centre. Also, to examine the experiences of the asylum seekers that participated in a ‘Cricket Connects’ training programme implemented by Cricket Ireland. The Cricket Connects intervention was implemented by Cricket Ireland in partnership with Cork Sports Partnership as a social inclusion strategy for asylum seekers living in Direct Provision. Methods and Procedures: The researcher conducted ethnographic research to examine the experiences of the participants. In addition, semi-structured interviews were employed for data collection, while thematic analysis method was used for data analysis. Outcome and Results: Four findings emerged from thematic data analysis. 1. continuous participation in cricketing and Cricket Connects programme of Cricket Ireland. 2. the participants played cricket for the purpose of avoidance and psychological escape from stressful lifestyle and depressive moods. 3. Cricket participation promoted social connections and networks between the asylum seekers and people in Irish society. 4. The final was building a bridge to a new future to access opportunities in Ireland through cricket connects. Conclusion and Implications: Positive benefits were derived from cricket participation and Cricket Connects. Longitudinal studies should be conducted to investigate the impact of cricket participation on asylum seekers in Direct Provision over prolonged periods of time.

Keywords

Cricket Ireland , Asylum seekers , Direct provision , Training course

Citation

Amujo, D. P. (2021) An ethnographic exploration of the experiences of asylum seekers within direct provision undertaking a local cricket training course. Cork: Community-Academic Research Links, University College Cork.