UPDATE
8:24 AM PT — The NHL simply launched a press release on the matter, and did not condemn Ivan Provorov‘s actions — as an alternative, the org. stated, “Players are free to determine which initiatives to assist, and we proceed to encourage their voices and views on social and cultural points.”
Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov refused to point out up for his workforce’s warmups on Tuesday night time … boycotting Philadelphia’s choice to have its gamers put on rainbow-colored jerseys that supported the LGBTQ+ group.
Provorov, who in the end ended up enjoying within the recreation after the Flyers switched again to their regular uniforms, stated after the competition he made the choice attributable to his Russian Orthodox beliefs.
“I respect all people and I respect all people’s selections,” the 26-year-old stated. “My selection is to remain true to myself and my faith. That’s all I’m going to say.”
Reporters tried to ask Provorov additional questions concerning the choice … however he shut them down, saying, “Did you not hear what I simply stated? Can you respect that?”
Flyers head coach John Tortorella, in the meantime, appeared to again his participant’s selection … telling media members after the sport he by no means as soon as thought-about not enjoying Provorov, regardless of the pregame protest.
Philadelphia Flyers
“It’s one factor I respect about Provy,” the 64-year-old supervisor stated. “He’s at all times true to himself. And, so, that is the place we’re at with that.”
The Flyers opted to put on the pregame kits — in addition to wrap their sticks with rainbow-colored tape — to be able to promote inclusivity in a sport that is traditionally struggled with range. Philly auctioned off its gamers’ pregame gadgets after the sport, donating proceeds to teams who’re serving to develop hockey in numerous communities. Provorov was the one Flyer who did not have memorabilia up within the public sale.
Hockey Is For Everyone. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜#ANAvsPHI | #FueledByPhilly pic.twitter.com/oIyJ6dV1Ae
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) January 17, 2023
@NHLFlyers
The workforce spoke generically concerning the subject in a press release simply earlier than the sport … saying, “The Philadelphia Flyers group is dedicated to inclusivity and is proud to assist the LGBTQ+ group. Many of our gamers are lively of their assist of native LGBTQ+ organizations, and we have been proud to host our annual Pride Night once more this yr. The Flyers will proceed to be robust advocates for inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ group.”
The NHL has but to touch upon all of it.
Provorov ended up enjoying a team-high 22:45 minutes within the recreation in opposition to the Ducks, which Philadelphia received, 5-2.
Originally Published — 6:34 AM PT
