In this dynamic discussion, Dr Gabriel Knott-Fayle (University of Calgary) and I talk about cisgenderism, heteronormativity and masculinity in sports and sports media. We discuss how trans* and queer bodies are treated and medicalised in narratives surrounding different sports but also how (amateur) sporting environments can be affirming and create safe spaces. Although as queers so many of us have negative encounters with sports, it can also be a great place to socialise with other members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and to treat our strong bodies with the love they deserve. Whether you’re a Sporty Queer or not, this episode should not be missed!

The ball is in your court: Follow @DrKnottFayle and @queerlitpodcast on Instagram and Twitter and let us know about your queer sporting experience!

CW: transphobia, homophobia, bullying, hate speech, antiqueer violence

References:

Knott-Fayle, Gabriel, Elizabeth Peel, and Gemma L. Witcomb. "(Anti-) feminism and cisgenderism in sports media." Feminist Media Studies (2021): 1-18.

Gender Diversity and Sport: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Increasing Inclusivity (edited by Elizabeth Peel and Gemma Witcomb, Routledge, 2022)

Knott-Fayle, Gabriel. “World Cup 2022: Men’s soccer must stop silencing activism and allyship.” The Conversation (2022). https://theconversation.com/world-cup-2022-mens-soccer-must-stop-silencing-activism-and-allyship-195087 “

Queer Wizards and Neurodiversity” with Jes Battis https://www.spreaker.com/episode/51938443
Martina Navratilova
The Politician
Justin Fashanu
Isabel Waidner’s Sterling, Karat, Gold
Alison Bechdel’s The Secret to Superhuman Strength
DSD Differences of Sexual Development
Thomas Page McBee’s Amateur: A True Story About What Makes a Man
Chilling Adventured of Sabrina

Questions you should be able to respond to after listening:

1. What are Gabriel’s main research interests and what do they have to do with queerness in sports?
2. Gabriel speaks about cisgenderism in sports media. What does this mean?
3. In this episode, we identify some of the ways in which trans athletes are presented in negative ways by various media. Can you name some of the mechanisms we discuss? Feel free to add other and/or examples.
4. How can sporting environments be affirmative for queer people?
5. How do you see sports represented in queer narratives? Can you think of an example?