NHL Players Restricted from Using Pride-Themed Tape on Sticks
In a decision made by the board of governors in June, NHL players will not be allowed to put Pride-themed tape on their sticks while on the ice this season, according to a league source. The news was first reported by Outsports.
The league recently sent two memos to teams clarifying its guidance on “special initiatives,” including Pride night, Black History night, Hockey Fights Cancer night, and Military Appreciation night. The latest memo stated that restrictions cover “on-ice activity” and players should be encouraged to express themselves off the ice. It also mentioned that players and teams are allowed to celebrate and support specialty causes and host themed groups at games. Players can wear whatever they want as long as they adhere to their team’s dress code, as reported by ESPN.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman emphasized the importance of all theme nights but stated that the uniforms had become a distraction. Therefore, teams will not wear them this season. However, players can choose to model those jerseys. The new rule focuses on what’s on the ice.
The NHL’s rules regarding Pride nights gained attention last season when some players expressed concerns about participating in them. Several players and teams decided not to wear the Pride warmup jerseys due to religious reasons or safety concerns.
Russian players, in particular, opted out of wearing the Pride night warmup jersey as anti-gay laws in Russia escalated. Players like Buffalo Sabres defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin and Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Ivan Provorov, who was then with the Philadelphia Flyers, did not wear the jersey. Some teams, including the St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers, and Minnesota Wild, even scrapped the warmup sweaters entirely.
While the decision to restrict Pride-themed tape on sticks may disappoint some players and fans, it is important to remember that the NHL still supports and encourages off-ice expressions of support for various causes. The league’s focus is on maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment on the ice.
In recent years, the NHL has made significant efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the sport. Pride nights, along with other special initiatives, have played a crucial role in raising awareness and fostering a more inclusive hockey community. These events provide an opportunity for players, teams, and fans to come together and celebrate diversity.
However, it is also essential to respect individual beliefs and concerns. Some players may have personal or religious reasons for not participating in certain events or wearing specific jerseys. The NHL acknowledges these concerns and allows players to express themselves off the ice in ways that align with their beliefs.
The decision to restrict Pride-themed tape on sticks may be seen as a compromise between allowing players to express themselves while maintaining a neutral on-ice environment. By focusing on off-ice expressions of support, the NHL ensures that players can still actively participate in promoting causes they believe in without compromising their personal beliefs.
As the new NHL season begins, it is crucial to remember that the league’s commitment to diversity and inclusion remains strong. While the absence of Pride-themed tape on sticks may be disappointing for some, it is essential to recognize the broader efforts being made by the NHL to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all players and fans.
In conclusion, NHL players will not be allowed to use Pride-themed tape on their sticks while on the ice this season. The league’s decision aims to maintain a neutral on-ice environment while still supporting off-ice expressions of support for various causes. While some players and fans may be disappointed, it is important to acknowledge the NHL’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion within the sport.