Flyers player refused to wear a jersey in support of the LGBTQ community

The Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov decided not to participate in the warm-up period of his team on Tuesday night because of wearing the Pride jersey. To justify this controversial decision, he invoked his religion (Russian Orthodox)…

Let’s recall that during the warm-up before facing the Anaheim Ducks, the Flyers wore Pride-themed jerseys, in addition to a rainbow ribbon(tape) on their pads.

Obviously, this moment is meant to be an important annual moment set aside as a sign of support for the LGBTQ community, which has earned them a ton of criticism across America.

Flyers defenceman Provorov cites religion for boycott on Pride night https://t.co/rceKHX7BoK pic.twitter.com/e6GMtlNt3A

— The Globe and Mail (@globeandmail) January 18, 2023

Provorov, who spent all of 23 minutes on the ice surface, wanted to “respect” himself by refusing to put on the jersey.

So he declined to take further questions on the subject. Moreover, his coach, John Tortorella, supported him, indicating that he respected Provorov since he was always faithful to himself.

It is important to note that following this session as a sign of support, the jerseys and sticks will be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to “the team’s charity and its efforts to develop field hockey in various communities”.

The NHL also supports the You Can Play which aims to ensure equality, respect and safety for all athletes, regardless of sexual orientation.