Nashville Predators defenseman Luke Prokop on Tuesday became the first active NLH player to come out as gay. The 19-year-old made the announcement on social media.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter
"It has been quite the journey to get to this point in my life, but I could not be happier with my decision to come out," Prokop wrote. "From a young age I have dreamed of being an NHL player, and I believe that living my authentic life will allow me to bring my whole self to the rink and improve my chances of fulfilling my dreams."
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 pic.twitter.com/7zqT0A2gJj
— luke prokop (@lukeprokop_6) July 19, 2021
"The Nashville Predators organization is proud of Luke for the courage he is displaying in coming out today and we will support him unequivocally in the days, weeks, and years to come as he continues to develop as a prospect," the team said in a statement posted on Twitter.
National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman, said, "I share his hope that these announcements can become more common in the hockey community. LGBTQ, players, coaches and staff can only perform at their absolute best if they live their lives as their true and full selves."