Florida Panthers defenceman Aaron Ekblad has a message for all LGBT athletes:
“Don’t be afraid. You’ll be surprised by how many people are accepting,” he said in an interview with Boca Magazine on Wednesday.
The NHL has never had an openly gay player, past or present, though many NHLers have spoken out to say they would absolutely be accepting of a gay teammate. Ekblad told the South Florida-based publication that he believes the pro sports landscape has become friendlier and more supportive.
“Do I think it’s getting better? I think so. People are getting more educated and more understanding,” said Ekblad, who recently appeared in a Nike ad as part of the brand’s BETRUE campaign. “I would like to think the climate is getting better.”
Support and empower anyone willing and able to play #equality #betrue @nike @nikelosangeles
2,157 Likes, 22 Comments – Aaron Ekblad (@aaronekblad5) on Instagram: “Support and empower anyone willing and able to play #equality #betrue @nike @nikelosangeles”
“If you’re good enough to play, you’re good enough to play on my team,” he said.
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