Josh Wears Pink Cleats: Inclusive Masculinity on the Soccer Field

In this ethnographic research of a college-based soccer team
at a large liberal college in Northeast America, I document the
existence of more inclusive versions of masculinity that contrast
conventional understandings of male teamsport athletes. Using
participant observation and 21 in-depth interviews, I show that
these men demonstrate metrosexual and inclusive behaviors and
attitudes. The styles of masculinity these men enact are more
relaxed, liberal, and inclusive; they are well styled, well groomed,
gay friendly, and they are emotionally and physically close to
other men. They are far removed from the traditional orthodox
sporting masculinities of previous generations. Symbolizing their
difference, their gendered expressions also extend to the wearing
of pink soccer boots (cleats), without homophobic judgment from
teammates. I discuss the wearing of pink cleats as a symbolic sociological moment, revealing the changing nature of masculinities
among this group of college-based soccer players.