When we tried to do a video for the for You Can Play Project for the Canadian Women’s Hockey League, we had a difficult time getting gay athletes–as well as straight athletes–to participate. It was like pulling teeth with many people, whether or not it was articulated, because the assumption is that is there is “a guilty by association” philosophy with female athletes. You don’t want to be perceived as being a lesbian, and if you are a lesbian, you don’t want to fit into the stereotype. You don’t want to gratify that stereotype with a response. That’s something unique to women’s sports.
This is why I love hockey. During a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game Ottawa Senators fan Christina asked Toronto Maple Leafs fan Alicia to marry her. It is so incredibly cheesy and cute! Congrats ladies!
After many years of competing in hockey at an elite level, I've decided to share my story and experience with homophobia in sport. It's taken me many years to find the strength to share it, but I hope that people find value in hearing it.
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