This thesis discusses the nature and significance of sport for girls in Australian schools and addresses the issues of the single sex and coeducational learning environments. While it is clear that there are no obvious physiological or psychological reasons for the current under- representation of females in sport, male construed and transmitted values deeply embedded in Australian society still continue to shape attitudes and perceptions of the role of women in sport and physical recreation. The impact of the socialising forces including the family, teachers and the media is sufficiently influential to produce a significant disparity between male and female sports participation. This problem is examined and evaluated with ideas proposed to develop and foster a more equitable representation of women in sport.