Reflexivity suggests that researchers should acknowledge and disclose their own selves in the research and be aware of the ways in which their perceptions and background influence the research. This article highlights and discusses issues related to being an active athlete in a sports club while at the same time conducting ethnographic research related to the same sports club. Areas that are examined are personal issues, the kinds of participation that I undertook as a researcher, my role relationships and the maintenance of the balance between distance and involvement. Elaborating on the four areas, implications for the quality of data gathered are explored and lessons to be drawn from pursuing the dual role of an athlete and researcher are discussed. © 2004, SAGE Publications. All rights reserved.