Us Women's Hockey Team Body Issue
The U.S. women's hockey team has been making headlines recently, but not just for their performance on the ice. In July 2021, ESPN released their annual Body Issue, which features athletes posing nude or semi-nude in an effort to celebrate sports bodies of all shapes and sizes. This year, several members of the U.S. women's hockey team were featured in the issue, including captain Kendall Coyne Schofield, forward Hilary Knight, and defender Lee Stecklein.
Why the Body Issue is Important
The Body Issue has been a controversial topic since its inception in 2009. While some people argue that it objectifies athletes, others believe that it celebrates their athleticism and promotes body positivity. ESPN themselves state that the Body Issue "showcases the power and grace of the human form" and aims to "highlight the incredible achievements of athletes from around the globe."
For female athletes in particular, the Body Issue can be a way to combat harmful stereotypes about what a "feminine" or "attractive" body should look like. Women's bodies are often scrutinized and criticized in a way that men's bodies are not, and female athletes may face additional pressure to look a certain way in order to be taken seriously in their sport.
By featuring a diverse group of athletes, including those who may not fit traditional beauty standards, the Body Issue can help to challenge these harmful beliefs and promote body acceptance. This is especially important for young girls who may be looking for role models in the sports world.
The U.S. Women's Hockey Team's Involvement
The U.S. women's hockey team has been at the forefront of the fight for gender equality in sports, both on and off the ice. In 2017, the team threatened to boycott the World Championships unless they received better pay and treatment from USA Hockey. The boycott was ultimately successful, and the team went on to win gold at the tournament.
By participating in the Body Issue, the U.S. women's hockey team is continuing this tradition of advocating for themselves and others. The athletes involved have spoken out about why they chose to participate, with many citing the importance of promoting body positivity and challenging harmful stereotypes.
"I want young girls to see that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes," said Lee Stecklein in an interview with ESPN. "I hope that they see that you don't have to have a certain body type to be an athlete, and that you don't have to look a certain way to be beautiful."
The Impact of the Body Issue
While the Body Issue has its critics, there is no denying the impact that it has had on the world of sports and beyond. The issue has sparked conversations about body positivity and the harmful effects of unrealistic beauty standards, and has helped to shift the narrative around what "healthy" and "attractive" bodies should look like.
For female athletes in particular, the Body Issue can be a way to celebrate their strength and athleticism, rather than their appearance. This is especially important given the societal pressures that women face to prioritize their looks over their accomplishments.
The U.S. women's hockey team's involvement in the Body Issue sends a powerful message about the importance of body acceptance and self-love. By embracing their bodies and encouraging others to do the same, these athletes are paving the way for a more inclusive and empowering sports culture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the U.S. women's hockey team's participation in the Body Issue is a powerful statement about the importance of body positivity and the fight for gender equality in sports. By showcasing their bodies and celebrating their athleticism, these athletes are challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive and empowering sports culture. While the Body Issue may not be for everyone, it has undeniably had a positive impact on the world of sports and beyond.
