Negotiating digital identities: Small story narrative analysis of queer and heterosexual elite hockey playing mothers’ self-portrayals on Instagram

Small stories on Instagram enhance understanding of queer and heterosexual (non)biological mother identities and (in)visibility, in an inequitable sport system. This research shows how small stories on Instagram can be used by athlete mothers to increase visibility and marketability, while exposing additional avenues needed for equity and change concerning identity inclusion. More research using a small story approach grounded in narrative inquiry would build on understanding social media's role in shaping motherhood and sport meanings.