Amanda, 24, plays in the men’s league – opens up about harsh comments

Swedish fifth at the highest league level playing for Tidaholms IF Amanda Johansson has told For Expressen about his experiences playing in the men’s league.

In ice hockey, a female player in the men’s league is a rarity, no matter what the league level. Johansson, who plays as a goalkeeper, thanks his teammates for the support he received.

“They are top guys. I’ve played with most of them for a couple of years, so we know each other well. The team is full of great guys.”

According to Johansson, some of the teammates wondered about recruiting a female goalkeeper at first, but she was accepted as part of the team quickly.

Of all Johansson doesn’t have much good to say about the opponents. The 24-year-old goalkeeper regularly has to hear abuse during matches.

“Someone said that I like to be taken from behind, or that I’m a whore and throw up when I play with men. Completely nonsensical comments that don’t belong in the rink.”

According to Johansson, the referees of the matches have not intervened in rude comments, but his teammates have tried to support the goalkeeper.

“It’s been nice that the guys have defended me and spoken up for me when I’ve been in a bit of a shock myself. If an opponent calls me bad, it’s easy to respond, but if I hear something so strange, it’s hard to react.”