Links with manliness, patriotism and character

• Organised sport became the best way to instil a sense of patriotism in the British people
• Through the education systems, virtues such as team loyalty, discipline and sacrifice were encouraged and developed, especially in males
• Muscular Christianity > term described people who were healthy, morally upright Christians, and who were ready to serve and defend their country
• The defence of the British Empire was considered to be 'man's work' and school sports (e.g. rugby and cricket) instilled the characteristics of courage, determination, self-discipline and manliness