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Gaming Hope: Professional Women’s Football as Precarious Work

Author

Listed:
  • Constantine Manolchev

    (Business School University of Exeter, UK)

  • Ryan Nolan

    (Business School University of Exeter, UK)

  • Cameron Pearce

    (Business School University of Exeter, UK)

  • Carys

    (Professional female footballer, UK)

Abstract

This article seeks to uncover Carys’ precarious experiences as a professional female footballer. To date, research has largely examined uncertain labour market conditions, processes and outcomes, often overlooking the ‘hope labour’ of skilled precarious workers who take present risks in anticipation of future opportunities. Carys’ story highlights the critical role of individual agency in navigating such hope labour. We find that although her job carries risks, she is able to navigate them through strategic games, reminiscent of those described in Michael Burawoy’s influential work. Carys uses risk-mitigation games to secure better contract offers. She also practises risk-acceptance games to maintain her physical fitness and competitiveness. Carys’ case leads us to propose that the hope labour of skilled precarious workers is a matter of negotiation, rather than simple necessity.

Suggested Citation

  • Constantine Manolchev & Ryan Nolan & Cameron Pearce & Carys, 2026. "Gaming Hope: Professional Women’s Football as Precarious Work," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 40(1), pages 187-196, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:40:y:2026:i:1:p:187-196
    DOI: 10.1177/09500170251380737
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Elina Meliou & Oliver Mallett, 2022. "Negotiating Gendered Ageing: Intersectional Reflexivity and Experiences of Incongruity of Self-Employed Older Women," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 36(1), pages 101-118, February.
    2. Lucie Trlifajová & Lenka Formánková, 2023. "‘Finally, We Are Well, Stable’: Perception of Agency in the Biographies of Precarious Migrant Workers," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 37(6), pages 1583-1604, December.
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