Moana Hope and Maria Thattil: Break-up, Dating, and Self-Discovery

According to her recent interview with Stellar, Hope is navigating life as a single mother of two while managing the pressures of public scrutiny, shifting away from the curated social media image to embrace a more authentic, low-key lifestyle.

The Reality of Dating as a Public Figure

For Hope, the transition into the dating scene has been marked by a disconnect between her public persona and her private reality. The 38-year-old athlete reports that potential partners often approach her with preconceived notions formed by her media profile. She describes this as a hurdle to forming genuine connections, noting that she prefers a “blank canvas” where she can be judged on her personality rather than her celebrity status.

Hope’s approach to romance is decidedly anti-glamour. She admits to preferring “couch dates” involving popcorn and sweets over traditional dining. Despite the challenges, she remains open to finding a partner, though she humorously suggests that the lack of a “female Bachelorette for lesbians” show has made the process more complex than it needs to be.

Co-Parenting Challenges and Future Outlook

Hope shares two children—five-and-a-half-year-old Svea and four-year-old Ahi—with her former wife, Isabella Carlstrom. Both children were conceived via IVF with the same donor. Hope characterizes the experience of co-parenting as “one of the hardest mental challenges” of her life, emphasizing the necessity of keeping the children’s well-being isolated from the friction of adult separations.

The logistics of the arrangement vary, with Hope currently managing full-time care for her son while seeking more time with her daughter. She plans to take the children on their first international trip to Fiji, a milestone she views as a significant step forward in their family life.

Shifting Social Attitudes Toward LGBTQ+ Inclusion

When she received a homophobic message from a retired AFLW peer earlier this year, she was surprised by the volume of public support she received. According to Hope, the reaction was notably different than it would have been a decade ago, with members of the public—including straight allies—actively defending her right to love whom she chooses.

Rather than harboring resentment, Hope advocates for a patient approach to changing minds. She points to her own mother, who initially disapproved of her sexuality but has since become one of her most vocal supporters, as evidence that education and time can bridge generational divides.

Professional Transition and Community Building

Outside of her family life, Hope has pivoted toward entrepreneurship and grassroots sports. She is currently running a consulting and design business focused on traffic management, with a specific mission to mentor stay-at-home mothers looking to launch their own ventures. She has also returned to playing local football, a move she says has provided her with a vital support system.

“These girls are my family,” Hope told Stellar. She describes the training environment as a hub where mothers bring their children, creating a communal space that balances professional development with the realities of modern motherhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many children does Moana Hope have?

Hope has two children: a daughter, Svea, and a son, Ahi.

What is Moana Hope’s current career focus?

She operates a consulting and design business for traffic management and is actively involved in mentoring mothers to start their own businesses.

Does Moana Hope still play football?

Yes, she has returned to playing local women’s football, which she describes as an essential part of her support network.

Have you experienced the challenges of co-parenting or navigating the modern dating scene? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more stories on personal growth and athlete transitions.