Purpose: This study aimed to explore middle-aged women’s experiences of catharsis and the intrinsic value derived from participation in amateur soccer clubs. By examining the psychological, physical, and social meanings of soccer participation, the study sought to provide foundational evidence to revitalize non-mainstream sports and promote women’s sport participation in an emerging super-aged society. Method: In-depth, one-on-one interviews were conducted with eight women aged 50 years and older who had participated in an amateur women’s soccer team, operated by the S City Sports Council, for at least two years. The interview data were analyzed using inductive category analysis, through which the processes and outcomes of cathartic experiences were categorized into psychological, physical, and social dimensions. Results: The process of cathartic experience was categorized into six themes: psychological release through relational bonding, a sense of accomplishment through learning and winning, emotional purification through intense physical activity, the release of aggression through bodily contact, emotional elevation through role performance as a player, and exhilaration derived from recognition by coaches and teammates. These experiences led to psychological outcomes, including enhanced psychological well- being, increased self-efficacy, and reduced depressive feelings; physical outcomes, such as improved physical functioning and restoration of health capacity; and social outcomes, including greater social efficacy, strengthened family support, and the restoration of self-identity. Conclusion: This study confirms that soccer participation among middle-aged women provides a context for integrated psychological, physical, and social recovery that extends beyond the effects of physical exercise alone. Moreover, the study demonstrates that soccer holds distinctive value in addressing the life- course transitions and psycho-emotional needs of middle-aged women.
Koo et al. (Sat,) studied this question.