Gay Hockey Player ‘Disappointed’ in Other Players’ Lack of Support

Within days after a professional hockey player refused to wear a jersey affirming the LGBTQ+ community as part of the NHL’s Hockey Is for Everyone initiative, the first out NHL player active in the sport has voiced his disappointment.

On Saturday, as part of a celebration of inclusivity, members of the San Jose Sharks suited up in warm-up jerseys that featured a rainbow flag. All but the team’s goalkeeper participated.

That player, James Reimer, claims that his belief in the Bible makes it impossible for him to celebrate the openness meant to be conveyed by the program.

“For all 13 years of my NHL career, I have been a Christian — not just in title, but in how I choose to live my life daily. I have a personal faith in Jesus Christ who died on the cross for my sins and, in response, asks me to love everyone and follow Him. I have no hate in my heart for anyone, and I have always strived to treat everyone that I encounter with respect and kindness,” his statement began.

However, he explained that his understanding of the Bible supports a little bit of bigotry.

“In this specific instance, I am choosing not to endorse something that is counter to my personal convictions which are based on the Bible, the highest authority in my life,” he wrote.

Many criticized the player, making the point that Reimer surely violates many of the rules outlined in the Bible, like working on Saturday and eating certain foods, but is selective about this one in the name of exclusion. In addition, some called Reimer’s actions a publicity stunt that left him on an island, separated from his team.

Gay player Luke Prokop, a Nashville Predators prospect, expressed his disappointment with the stunt on Twitter.