Motherhood journeys on and off the ice: a narrative analysis of media stories of queer and heterosexual hockey mothers

This study builds on research on athlete mothers showing the impact/influence of media stories, and media research centering portrayals and perceptions of (non)biological queer athlete mothers. We sought to expand understanding of less studied aspects of socially constructed motherhood concerning sexual orientation, (non)biological motherhood, and sport career in ice hockey. Media stories of eight North American professional queer and heterosexual hockey mothers (n = 112) were subjected to a thematic narrative analysis and theorized using narrative inquiry. We identified four themes: stand out, stand up, a new generation, and queer mothers: they’re just like us! Themes are discussed in relation to heterosexual motherhood ideals (e.g. super moms, quick comebacks, biological essentialism), activist athlete mother identities, queer athlete mother (in)visibility, and expanded ethic of care. We conclude with discussing the value of media narratives theorized as sources of social relational meaning in stories and contributions toward (in)visibility of queer and heterosexual athlete mothers, and future research.