The power of the statement isn't just that hockey moms will understand you. Any parent who has a child in youth sports knows what a time, energy and emotional commitment the games are, and the sport is irrelevant.

They may not vote for her, but they definitely understand why she's proud of that label. Let's face it, Michael Phelps wouldn't be wearing eight gold medals on the cover of Sports Illustrated if it weren't for the drive, dedication and devotion of his mother. Any swimming mom knows that the bleachers at a swim meet are both uncomfortable and humid. (Oh, and like hockey, swim practice is often at 4:30 or 5 a.m.) Regardless of political or religious affiliation, socio-economic bracket or geographic location, parents of all backgrounds understand the sacrifice, and ultimately the joy that comes from being a dedicated youth sports mom or dad. The best ones don't just devote themselves to their own children, but to their teammates and even those on opposing squads. They support the system that allows children to learn life's lessons on a ballfield or hockey rink and they understand the final score rarely tells the whole story.

I'm not sure how much political clout it will carry, because after all, we've all seen sports moms who belonged in solitary confinement rather than public office. But I thought it was interesting that both in 1996 and in this presidential election none of the male candidates attempted to define themselves through their connection to youth sports.

The real connection between those who label themselves in that way, however, goes deeper than just a love and understanding of youth sports.

The unspoken message says I'm devoted, sometimes to my own detriment, to my children and to the children of my neighborhood. And while everyone won't relate to that sentiment, millions do.

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E-mail: adonaldson@desnews.com