Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov refused to take part in team warm-ups ahead of their game against the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday night due to them wearing pride jerseys before the annual Pride Game at the Wells Fargo Center.
Provorov, who did not join his teammates in putting on the rainbow-colored gear, says opted to do so as a result of his religious beliefs. The 26-year-old claims to be Russian Orthodox.
“I respect everybody, and I respect everybody’s choices. My choice is to stay true to myself and my religion. That’s all I’m going to say,” he said after the game.
Flyers head coach John Tortorella confirmed the defenseman wasn’t part of pregame affairs as he did not want to wear the pride jersey.
“With Provy, he’s being true to himself and to his religion,” Tortorella told reporters in a post-game interview.
The coach said he did not consider benching Provorov, who had a shot on goal in the 5-2 win.
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Flyers players also used warm-up sticks wrapped in pride tape on the night, having hosted a pregame skate for local LGBTQ+ youth and officers from the Greater Philadelphia G.O.A.L organization.
“The Philadelphia Flyers organization is committed to inclusivity and is proud to support the LGBTQ+ community,” the Flyers said in a statement. “Many of our players are active in their support of local LGBTQ+ organizations, and we were proud to host our annual Pride night again this year. The Flyers will continue to be strong advocates for inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ community.”
