The 'real thing' and the 'little sister': The rules of hockey and the construction of gender.

摘要

This thesis examines how gender is created and reinforced within a semi-autonomous, self-regulating field. Incorporating gender theory from Judith Butler, Vicki Schultz, and R.W. Connell, the author examines the "no intentional body checking" rule, which gives rise to a form of legal pluralism, and is enforced by Hockey Canada against female players and children under the age of twelve. The author then examines fact that shifting reasons, many of which focus on safety issues, are presented in defence of the rule, yet they are largely only discussed in the context of female players. Finally, using the work of Schultz and Connell, the author discusses why female players would enforce this rule upon themselves. The author concludes that without a more fulsome conversation and equitable treatment of players, involving discussions of safety for male players, the rule will likely remain unchanged.