The Boston Bruins will illuminate TD Garden with rainbow lights on March 15, 2024, as part of their annual Hockey Is for Everyone night. This event aims to support the LGBTQ+ community and raise funds for the Boston Pride Hockey league, marking nearly a decade of commitment to promoting inclusivity in the sport. This year’s celebration coincides with the rising popularity of the HBO series, “Heated Rivalry,” which tells the story of a romantic relationship between two closeted professional hockey players.
The show’s success has sparked discussions about the potential for greater inclusivity in hockey, a sport that has yet to feature an openly gay player in its over 100 years of history. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged the show’s impact, stating, “We’re well aware of ‘Heated Rivalry’… it’s a wonderful story.” The series has resonated with audiences beyond the LGBTQ+ community, turning it into a cultural phenomenon.
Impact on LGBTQ+ Representation in Hockey
The NHL has historically struggled with LGBTQ+ representation, with no active or retired openly gay players. However, some hope that “Heated Rivalry” might inspire players to come out. Bettman noted that the show serves as a “unique driver for creating new fans.” The depiction of a gay love story in a sport often perceived as hypermasculine could challenge outdated attitudes among fans and players alike.
While some analysts believe the show may not directly influence players to come out, it could foster a more accepting environment. Edward Kian, a professor of sport management, emphasized that “if the show can get more hockey fans to accept that some of the 736 athletes on NHL active rosters must be gay, then that could lead to more gay hockey players feeling welcomed enough to come out publicly.”
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the show, some caution against expecting immediate change. Jim Buzinski, co-founder of LGBTQ+ sports news outlet Outsports, pointed out the personal challenges athletes face when coming out. He noted that most professional athletes who identify as LGBTQ+ typically do so after their careers have ended.
Challenges Within the Sport
Concerns about homophobia and the sport’s aggressive culture continue to deter LGBTQ+ players from fully participating in hockey. Many recount experiences of exclusion and discrimination. Kevin Corsino, a player for the Boston Pride Hockey league, shared his story of leaving the sport due to locker room homophobia. “I decided it just wasn’t the space for me,” he said. However, he found a welcoming environment in Boston Pride Hockey, which boasts around 400 members.
Similarly, Jackie Farnham expressed that the hypermasculine environment of traditional hockey often perpetuates homophobic behavior. “It’s just so hypermasculine and aggressive… throwing slurs around,” he recalled. After stepping away from the sport for some time, he returned to hockey with Boston Pride, finding a supportive community.
Despite the NHL’s efforts to promote inclusivity, such as collaborating with organizations like You Can Play, challenges remain. In a controversial move, the league announced a ban on specialty jerseys and Pride tape during promotional nights. Following backlash from players and fans, the decision was reversed, demonstrating the ongoing struggle for acceptance within the league.
The storylines emerging from “Heated Rivalry” may continue to challenge perceptions and encourage dialogue about LGBTQ+ representation in hockey. As the series garners attention, it has the potential to create safer spaces for players to express their identities.
Cheryl Cooky, a professor at Purdue University, remarked on the broader cultural impact of the show, stating, “It’s also straight audiences that are appreciating this type of storytelling… that might lead to cultural shifts so that people on the ice and in the stands might feel safer or feel opportunities to authentically be themselves.”
While the show may not immediately lead to players coming out, it has provided a platform for a nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships in sports. As Buzinski noted, “The show has given us a fairy tale romance… Finally, we have one.”
The upcoming Hockey Is for Everyone night and the buzz surrounding “Heated Rivalry” highlight a pivotal moment for the NHL and its fans, as they navigate the intersection of sports, identity, and inclusion.
