Lesbophobia as a Barrier to Women in Coaching

Abstract

This article explores the challenges of female coaches in the heterosexual male-dominated institution of sport. The central contention is that homophobia, an irrational fear of and negative attitude towards homosexuals, and particularly lesbophobia, fear and negativity towards lesbians, impedes all female coaching careers. This investigation of homonegative barriers to women coaches stresses the importance of acknowledging and dismantling homophobia within a hegemonic sport culture in order to create safer, more equitable and more welcoming sports environments for women, regardless of sexual orientation.