Qualitative study reveals distinct ally identities and inclusion behaviors among collegiate athletic staff and athletes, highlighting frameworks to promote affirming sports environments.
This qualitative study explored how individuals within college athletics define their ally identities and their efforts, if any, to create more LGBTQ‑affirming climates within athletics. Eighteen semi-structured interviews were completed with coaches, athletic department staff, and a student-athlete. The thematic analysis resulted in three themes summarizing how participants defined their LGBTQ ally identities: (1) Stance of Equalness, (2) Supportive and Caring Presence, and (3) Advocacy and Activism, and four themes describing participants' LGBTQ ally-related actions: (1) No Specific Actions, (2) Seeking Training, (3) Promoting Inclusivity, and (4) Fostering Connections. The findings of this study provide a framework for understanding ally identities within college athletics and ideas for promoting greater ally engagement.
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McGeorge et al. (2026) studied this question.
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