LGBTQ Ally Identities and Actions Within a Collegiate Athletics Context

This qualitative study explored how individuals within college athletics define their ally identities and their efforts, if any, to create more LGBTQ‑affirming climates within athletics. Eighteen semi-structured interviews were completed with coaches, athletic department staff, and a student-athlete. The thematic analysis resulted in three themes summarizing how participants defined their LGBTQ ally identities: (1) Stance of Equalness, (2) Supportive and Caring Presence, and (3) Advocacy and Activism, and four themes describing participants' LGBTQ ally-related actions: (1) No Specific Actions, (2) Seeking Training, (3) Promoting Inclusivity, and (4) Fostering Connections. The findings of this study provide a framework for understanding ally identities within college athletics and ideas for promoting greater ally engagement.