In the dynamic world of professional sports, it’s often not just the athletes who are in the spotlight, but also their families. One of the most fascinating subcultures in this area is that of hockey players’ spouses.
Despite the significant contribution they make to the well-being and success of their partners, the wives of hockey players sometimes face prejudice and unfair stereotypes.
However, like everyone else, these women have dreams, careers, and individual identities that transcend the professional boundaries of their spouses.
“We are girls like everyone else, quite simply, we have a job, we have a family life and family values,” says Frédérike Bédard, wife of Rafaël Harvey-Pinard, in an interview with TVA Nouvelles. “I think it’s important for people to be aware and understand that we’re not here for the wrong reasons.”
Their lives consist of overcoming the challenges of frequent moves, long periods of separation, and the emotional rollercoaster of wins and losses.
“These are athletes who have a routine, who train in the morning and [qui] They often have “parties” in the evenings, says Emma Fortin, Brendan Gallagher’s fiancée. “You’re always on the go, so it’s important to have your own activities too.”
Frédérike worked for the DPJ du Saguenay and worked as a specialist teacher at a school for four years. Emma, for her part, is a doctoral student in marketing at HEC.
Involved in their community
It is important to recognize that these women are not just spectators on the sidelines, but full members of a tight-knit community.
The two young women are also involved in the Carrefour Foundation, an organization that supports victims of domestic violence.
“For women in distress who experience these situations, it’s unfair and they need support,” says Emma. “I think it’s incredible that there are such great organizations, everyone should be more interested in them.”
Build strong bonds
However, these experiences also forge strong bonds within the community of female hockey players, creating a network of support and understanding that extends beyond the sport itself.
“We’re all in the same boat, we’re alone sometimes, so having dinner together helps to get together,” says Frédérike.
“There were four of us and we got engaged this summer, so we organized a weekend in New York to celebrate together,” says Emma, who got engaged to Brendan Gallagher on July 7.
Breaking stereotypes
Their commitment and tireless support contribute significantly to their spouses’ professional success. However, it is equally important to break through harmful stereotypes and recognize the diversity of individual desires within this community.
“It’s an incredible life in the sense that there are always games,” says Frédérike. “We don’t stop, our lives go on when the boys are out.”
