This paper compares the process of

This paper compares the process of adolescent socialization into sport in Japan and Canada, focussing on the structural and cultural differences and similarities. Results from national survey data indicate that the school is a strong socializing agent in Japan, while the sport system within the community has more influence on sport involvement in Canada. It is suggested that sport socialization in Japan is unique in that it arises from a closed structure, as compared to the open structure in Canada.