During the recent match between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Anaheim Ducks, one member of the Flyers did not wear the Pride Night themed rainbow warmup jersey meant to show support for the LGBTQ+ movement.
Ivan Provorov via Philadelphia Flyers YouTube
Defensemen Ivan Provorov, a religious Christian and part of the Russian Orthodox Church, abstained from taking part in the compulsory-endorsement of beliefs that go against his faith. For his refusal, the Flyers put out a politically correct response before the online mob descended on them.
The statement, shared to Twitter by hockey commentator Frank Seravalli, said “The Philadelphia Flyers organization is committed to inclusivity and is proud to support the LGBTQ+ community. Many of our players are active in their support of local LGBTQ+ organizations, and we were proud to host our annual Pride Night again this year. The Flyers will continue to be strong advocates and the LGBTQ+ community.”
Source: Frank_Saravelli Twitter
The reports of Provorov’s refusal to wear the Pride Night jersey were confirmed by head coach John Tortorella, who unlike the statement released by the unnamed team spokesperson, praised the player for standing by his faith instead of throwing him under the bus.
“He’s being true to himself and his religion,” said Tortorella. “This has to do with his beliefs and his religion. It’s one thing I respect about [Provorov], he’s always true to himself.”
Torts says Provy didn’t take warmups because he was against Pride Night. He didn’t consider benching him. #Flyers pic.twitter.com/UlWUwQkuf9
— Sam Carchidi (@BroadStBull) January 18, 2023
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Provorov did speak with the media where he affirmed his position not to take part in the LGBTQ+ propaganda.
“I respect everybody and respect everybody’s choices. My choice is to stay true to myself and my religion,” he said.
Many professional and even collegiate level athletes have faced backlash for not conforming to the LGBTQ+ agenda.
Recent examples include Tampa Bay Rays players who were hit by a slurry of verbal attacks online and from the media for not wearing Pride patches on their jerseys, as well as a group of Australian rugby players who opponents demanded to be removed from the team for their refusal to wear Pride themed uniforms.
Ivan Porovov via Philadelphia Flyers YouTube
What are your thoughts on Provorov’s decision to stick by his faith? Let us know in the comments below.
NEXT: Australian Rugby Players Boycott Match Over Pride Themed Jerseys