Title: Exploring the Experiences of Black, Indigenous and Women of Colour in Competitive Ice Hockey
Supervisor: Dr. Andrea Bundon
Committee members: Dr. Liv Yoon, Dr. Moss Norman, Dr. Lisa Trainor
Abstract: At competitive levels in sport, women who are Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) are underrepresented, and an examination of the reasons for this reveals ongoing experiences of microaggressions, stereotypes and discrimination (McKegney et al., 2021; Sandrin & Palys, 2022; Eke et al., 2024). Research and current statistics show that factors impacting these experiences included a lack of anti-racism training for coaches and people in positions of authority, few BIPOC people in decision making areas and coaching roles, negative media portrayals, and an underrepresentation of women and BIPOC athletes in professional sports (Canning, 2025; Joseph & McKenzie, 2022; Spain, 2024; Eke et al., 2024). Given current exclusionary practices within hockey culture towards women and BIPOC groups, research centered on understanding how they navigate the sport is needed (Norman et al., 2022; Szto, 2020). My work aims to contribute to the growth of research using an intersectional approach to highlight voices of BIPOC women who navigate multiple identities simultaneously. Through this intersectional lens, I will pose the following research questions: 1. How do BIPOC women recall navigating and managing their experiences competitive ice hockey players? 2. What ideas do BIPOC women who played competitive ice hockey have that could create a more positive and equitable experience? My research methods will include individual semi-structured interviews with 10 to 12 participants with the goal of exploring their lived experiences as competitive ice hockey players (Smith & Sparkes, 2016). This data will be analyzed through reflexive thematic analysis. My aim in carrying out this research is to highlight how BIPOC women managed experiences of discrimination and marginalization as competitive hockey players, provide a platform to learn about their ideas for change, and create work that serves as a representation for future girls in the sport.