The National Hockey League will no longer allow players to put rainbow-colored tape on their hockey sticks in honor of the LGBT community, according to a guidance sent to teams before the new season.
ESPN reported Thursday that the NHL sent a memo titled “Game and Practice-Related Special Initiatives” to all teams two weeks ago. The memo explained that players can’t wear any specialty sweaters during games, warmups and official practices.
A portion of the memo, obtained by ESPN, stated, “Players shall not be put in the position of having to demonstrate (or where they may be appearing to demonstrate) personal support for any Special Initiatives.”
“A factor that may be included in this regard includes, for example, whether a Player (or Players) is required to be in close proximity to any groups or individuals …”