You Can Play

Prior to his death, Brendan Burke was renowned for his dedicated efforts to combat homophobia within the hockey community. Brendan served as a student manager for the Miami University RedHawks hockey team and gained significant recognition when he publicly came out as a gay man in 2009. His coming-out story was shared through an article written by John Buccigross and published on ESPN.com.{{cite web |title = ESPN Article |date = November 24, 2009|url = https://www.espn.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=buccigross_john&id=4685761 |access-date = November 17, 2012 }} Brendan and his father, Brian, appeared together on the Canadian channel TSN during a nationally televised hockey game intermission, where they openly discussed Brendan's sexuality and his father's acceptance of him.

During the interview, Brendan said, "I think it's important my story is told to people because there are a lot of gay athletes out there and gay people working in pro sports that deserve to know there are safe environments where people are supportive regardless of your sexual orientation."{{cite web |title = TSN Brian and Brendan |url = https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=299904 |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}

Brendan died on February 5, 2010, in a car accident. He was only 21 years old, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, advocacy, and a sincere desire for inclusivity in sports.{{cite news |last = Stickgold |first = Emma |title = Brendan Burke, 21; raised awareness by coming out as young, gay athlete |url = http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/obituaries/articles/2010/02/08/brendan_burke_21_raised_awareness_by_coming_out_as_young_gay_athlete/ |work = The Boston Globe |access-date = June 12, 2012 |date = February 8, 2010 }}

Brian and Patrick continued to combat homophobia in the NHL after Brendan's death; Patrick, along with Brian Kitts and Glenn Witman, founded You Can Play as a tribute to his brother.{{cite news |last = Allen |first = Kevin |title = Anti-homophobia ad carries on Burke's legacy |url = https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/story/2012-03-04/burke-family-ad/53357084/1 |work = USA Today |access-date = June 12, 2012 |date = March 4, 2012 }} The name You Can Play originates from a piece Patrick Burke wrote for outsports.com. In the piece, Patrick talks about the overwhelmingly positive experience surrounding Brendan's coming out: "I waited to get a negative email, or to read a damning article, or to hear a snide comment at a game. I waited, and I waited, and I waited ... and I got what I should have expected the entire time: love, support, and admiration." He talks of letters and emails that poured in to his family, and he also talks of fellow scouts and hockey personnel pulling him aside and giving their support. He summarizes his feelings in the revelation that across the hockey world, what matters is whether or not you can play. "If you can play, we welcome you."{{cite web |last = Burke |first = Patrick |title = Never forgotten: Patrick Burke remembers his pioneering brother, Brendan |url = http://www.outsports.com/os/index.php/component/content/article/59-columns/322-never-forgotten-patrick-burke-remembers-his-pioneering-brother-brendan |work = Outsports |access-date = June 12, 2012 |archive-date = May 3, 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120503225752/http://www.outsports.com/os/index.php/component/content/article/59-columns/322-never-forgotten-patrick-burke-remembers-his-pioneering-brother-brendan |url-status = dead }} The quote was adapted to the catchier "If you can play, you can play" by the campaign.

You Can Play had its genesis in early 2011 at an event at the University of Denver, at which Glenn Witman had asked Patrick to be a guest speaker. Witman also invited Brian, and their casual conversations led to the eventual founding and launch of You Can Play.{{cite web |title = Why We Exist |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/pages/why-we-exist |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}

On March 4, 2012, the You Can Play Project released a video called "The Faceoff".{{cite web |title = You Can Play – The Faceoff |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXoTRTAw6Dc |work = June 12, 2012 }} In it, Patrick Burke and Brian Burke introduced the You Can Play Project, stating that their aim is to "carry on [Brendan's] legacy, and ensure that LGBT athletes around the world are afforded equal opportunity; judged only by their talent, character, and work ethic in their sport." The video features appearances from prominent NHL players Rick Nash, Duncan Keith, Claude Giroux, Matt Moulson, Daniel Alfredsson, Corey Perry, Henrik Lundqvist, and other popular NHL players. The video was uploaded to YouTube and aired during a Bruins-Rangers game.{{cite news |title = Taking a Stand to Change Locker Room Culture |url = http://slapshot.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/04/taking-a-stand-to-change-locker-room-culture/ |work = The New York Times |access-date = June 12, 2012 |first1 = Jeff Z. |last1 = Klein |first2 = Stu |last2 = Hackel |date = March 4, 2012 }} It was produced by HBO and aired originally by NBC.{{cite news |last = Malone |first = Scott |title = Pro hockey players aim to combat homophobia with ad campaign |url = https://www.reuters.com/article/hockey-gays-idUSL2E8DS3Y420120304?feedType=RSS&feedName=everything&virtualBrandChannel=11563AP |publisher = Reuters |access-date = June 12, 2012 |date = March 4, 2012 }} "The Faceoff" won the 2012 GLAAD Amplifier Award.{{cite web |title = GLAAD Award |date = September 10, 2012 |url = http://www.glaad.org/blog/best-advertising-nominated-glaad-amplifier-awards |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}

The You Can Play Advisory Board includes Brian Burke, ESPN SportsCenter anchor John Buccigross, Miami University head hockey coach Enrico Blasi, Kraft Sports Group Vice President of Customer Marketing & Strategy Jessica Gelman, ESPN columnist LZ Granderson, Olympic soccer player Angela Hucles, Be The Change president and CEO Kevin Jennings, Andy Miele of the Grand Rapids Griffins/Detroit Red Wings, sports psychologist Dana Sinclair, AEG Vice President Kelly Staley, professional soccer player David Testo, Chicago Blackhawks forward Tommy Wingels, and Golden State Warriors president Rick Welts.{{cite web |title = Staff and Board |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/pages/staff-and-board |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }} In February 2013, the Advisory Board added transgender activist and baseball analyst Christina Kahrl and former NFL players Wade Davis and Esera Tuaolo.{{cite web |title = Davis, Kahrl and Tuaolo Join You Can Play Advisory Board |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/davis-kahrl-and-tuaolo-join-you-can-play-advisory-board |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }} Miele and Wingels were the founding donors of You Can Play.{{cite web |last = Kurz |first = Kevin |title = Wingels supporting Burke family's 'You Can Play' project |url = http://www.csnbayarea.com/blog/sharks-talk/post/Wingels-supporting-Burke-familys-You-Can?blockID=664236&feedID=5881 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20130120055702/http://www.csnbayarea.com/blog/sharks-talk/post/Wingels-supporting-Burke-familys-You-Can?blockID=664236&feedID=5881 |url-status = dead |archive-date = January 20, 2013 |publisher = Comcast SportsNet Bay Area |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}

On August 20, 2013, Patrick Burke stepped aside as the main voice of You Can Play and named Wade Davis executive director of the organization.{{cite web |title = Wade Davis, Out Gay Former NFL Player, Will Lead Group Promoting LGBT Equality In Sports |url = https://www.buzzfeed.com/chrisgeidner/wade-davis-out-gay-former-nfl-player-to-run-group-promoting |work = BuzzFeed |date = August 20, 2013 |access-date = August 28, 2013 }} Burke remained with the organization in a less public role{{cite web |last = Burke |first = Patrick |title = Tweet |url = https://twitter.com/BurkieYCP/status/369886804469489665 |via = Twitter |access-date = August 28, 2013 }} until March 2017, when he stepped down from the organization completely.{{Cite news |url = https://www.outsports.com/2017/3/7/14840374/patrick-burke-you-can-play-project-retirement |title = Patrick Burke retires as head of You Can Play Project |work = Outsports |access-date = July 19, 2017 }} In September 2016, Chris Mosier joined the organization as Vice President of Program Development and Community Relations{{Cite web |url = http://www.youcanplayproject.org/news/2016/08 |title = Latest News |publisher = You Can Play Project |language = en |access-date = July 19, 2017 |archive-date = December 11, 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171211114933/http://www.youcanplayproject.org/news/2016/08 |url-status = dead }} and Wade Davis moved from Executive Director to Director of Professional Sports.{{Cite web |url = http://www.youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/patrick-burke-leaves-you-can-play-as-advocacy-group-hits-milestone-brian-ki |title = Patrick Burke Leaves You Can Play; Brian Kitts Assumes Role as President |publisher = You Can Play Project |language = en |access-date = July 19, 2017 |archive-date = July 17, 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170717035835/http://www.youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/patrick-burke-leaves-you-can-play-as-advocacy-group-hits-milestone-brian-ki |url-status = dead }}

You Can Play aims to rid professional sports of "casual homophobia" in the locker room.{{cite web |last = Friesen |first = Paul |title = NHLers target homophobia |url = http://www.winnipegsun.com/2012/03/05/changing-hockeys-culture |work = The Winnipeg Sun |access-date = June 12, 2012 }} Their approach emphasizes education rather than punishment or blame.{{cite web |last = Yerdon |first = Joe |title = Patrick Burke speaks about players lending support to You Can Play Project for gay athletes |date = March 4, 2012 |url = http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2012/03/04/patrick-burke-speaks-about-players-lending-support-to-you-can-play-project-for-gay-athletes/ |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}

The You Can Play mission statement reads as follows:

{{blockquote|You Can Play is dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes, without regard to sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

You Can Play works to guarantee that athletes are given a fair opportunity to compete, judged by other athletes and fans alike, only by what they contribute to the sport or their team's success.

You Can Play seeks to challenge the culture of locker rooms and spectator areas by focusing only on an athlete's skills, work ethic and competitive spirit.{{cite web |title = Mission Statement |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/pages/mission-statement |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}}}

Patrick Burke has been quoted as saying, "The end goal of our project is that we're completely useless. We want the day to come when it's not a story when an athlete comes out, when athletes are only judged by how they can help their teams win."{{cite news |last = Steinberg |first = Dan |title = NHL stars will promote 'You Can Play' movement |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dc-sports-bog/post/nhl-stars-will-promote-you-can-play-movement/2012/03/04/gIQAg67VqR_blog.html |newspaper = The Washington Post |access-date = June 12, 2012 |date = March 5, 2012 }} In March 2012, Burke stated that he believed the NHL would see a current player come out within the next two years.{{cite web |last = Spector |first = Jesse |title = The necessary next step for You Can Play: A gay NHL player in 'about two years' |url = http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-03-07/you-can-play-project-video-patrick-burke-brendan-burke-lgbt-athletes |work = Sporting News |access-date = June 12, 2012 |archive-date = March 9, 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120309032354/http://aol.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2012-03-07/you-can-play-project-video-patrick-burke-brendan-burke-lgbt-athletes |url-status = dead }}

The You Can Play website promotes an initiative called the "Captain's Challenge," encouraging team captains from various sports, no matter the level of competition, to sign a form in support of You Can Play and its message. The challenge reads:

{{blockquote|As a team captain, I pledge to respect the talents and work of all my teammates. I will encourage my teammates to speak up for each other when confronted with slurs of any sort in the locker room or on the playing field. And I'll start discussions that promote the acceptance of all of my teammates in order to build trust and a winning ethic.{{cite web |title = Captain's Challenge |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/page/s/take-the-captains-challenge |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}}}

You Can Play intends to release a playbook about casual homophobia as a resource for athletes and sports officials to help ensure safety for LGBT people in their communities.{{cite web |last = Kimelman |first = Adam |title = Patrick Burke gets support for "You Can Play" project |url = http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=620668 |publisher = National Hockey League |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}

The following NHL players and personnel have publicly endorsed You Can Play and/or acceptance of gay players in professional hockey:

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• {{flagicon|SWE}} Daniel Alfredsson{{cite web |title = The NHL makes LGBT history |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/the-nhl-makes-lgbt-history |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 22, 2014 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} David Backes{{cite web |last = Masisak |first = Corey |title = USA players, Burke speak against Russian law |url = http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=681010 |publisher = National Hockey League |access-date = August 28, 2013 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Patrice Bergeron
• {{flagicon|DEN}} Mikkel Bødker
• {{flagicon|USA}} Brian Boyle{{cite web |title = Van Riemsdyk, Parros, Greene, and more |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-second-period |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Tyler Bozak
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Tim Brent
• {{flagicon|USA}} Dustin Brown{{cite web |title = Dustin Brown, Alec Martinez |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-dustin-brown-alec-martinez |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 28, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Brent Burns{{cite web |title = Brent Burns, Logan Couture, TJ Galiardi, Douglas Murray |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-brent-burns-logan-couture-tj-galiardi-douglas-murray |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = January 13, 2014 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Dustin Byfuglien{{cite web |title = Dustin Byfuglien, Tanner Glass, Ryan Kesler |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-byfuglien-glass-kesler |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Ryan Callahan
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Brian Campbell{{cite web |title = Steven Stamkos, Brian Campbell, Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-all-stars-stamkos-and-campbell |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|SVK}} Zdeno Chára{{cite web |title = Zdeno Chara, Jason Pominville, Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-team-captains-zdeno-chara-jason-pominville |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Casey Cizikas{{cite web |title = NHL announces You Can Play club ambassadors |url = https://www.nhl.com/news/you-can-play-club-ambassadors-announced-for-each-team/c-286374036?tid=285562886 |publisher = National Hockey League |access-date = February 4, 2017 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Cal Clutterbuck{{cite web |title = Cal Clutterbuck, Minnesota Wild |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-cal-clutterbuck |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = September 25, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Logan Couture
• {{flagicon|USA}} Charlie Coyle
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Sidney Crosby{{cite web |title = Tweet |url = https://twitter.com/YouCanPlayTeam/status/372014674436694016 |via = Twitter |author = @YouCanPlayTeam |access-date = August 28, 2013 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Shane Doan
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Jordan Eberle{{cite web |title = Jordan Eberle – Edmonton Oilers, Brian Elliott – St. Louis Blues |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/You-Can-Play-All-Stars-Eberle-and-Elliott |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Brian Elliott
• {{flagicon|USA}} Mark Fayne
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Andrew Ference{{cite web |title = Andrew Ference |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-andrew-ference |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = September 27, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} TJ Galiardi
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Jason Garrison{{cite news |last = Mooney |first = Harrison |title = Canucks' Manny Malhotra, Jason Garrison, mascot Fin march in Vancouver Pride parade |url = https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/canucks-manny-malhotra-jason-garrison-mascot-fin-march-154628059--nhl.html |work = Yahoo! Sports |access-date = September 13, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Brian Gionta{{cite web |title = Brian Gionta, Brenden Morrow, Ben Smith |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-brian-gionta-brenden-morrow-ben-smith |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = January 13, 2014 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Claude Giroux{{cite web |title = You Can Play: The Faceoff |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-the-faceoff |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Tanner Glass
• {{flagicon|USA}} Tim Gleason
• {{flagicon|USA}} Andy Greene
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Scott Hartnell
• {{flagicon|USA}} Matt Hendricks{{cite web |title = Matt Hendricks |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-matt-hendricks |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = September 13, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Braden Holtby{{cite web |last = Sportak |first = Randy |title = Olympic NHLers stand up against anti-gay law in Russia |url = http://www.calgarysun.com/2013/08/26/olympic-nhlers-stand-up-against-anti-gay-law-in-russia |work = The Calgary Sun |access-date = August 28, 2013 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Zach Hyman{{cite web |title=Maple Leafs to Host You Can Play Night |url=https://www.nhl.com/mapleleafs/news/leafs-host-you-can-play-night-on-monday/c-305095052 |website=NHL.com |access-date=February 26, 2019 |date=February 22, 2019}}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Ryan Jones{{cite web |title = Ryan Jones |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-ryan-jones |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = September 15, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Nazem Kadri
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Duncan Keith
• {{flagicon|USA}} Ryan Kesler
• {{flagicon|USA}} Mike Knuble
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Chris Kunitz
• {{flagicon|SWE}} Eddie Läck
• {{flagicon|SWE}} Gabriel Landeskog{{cite web |title = Gabriel Landeskog |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-gabriel-landeskog-mountain-vista-regis-jesuit |access-date = January 13, 2014 }}
• {{flagicon|SWE}} Henrik Lundqvist
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Joffrey Lupul
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Manny Malhotra
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Brad Marchand{{cite web |title = NHL Names LGBTQ Ambassador For Each Team; Brad Marchand To Rep Bruins |date = February 3, 2017 |url = http://nesn.com/2017/02/nhl-names-lgbtq-ambassador-for-each-team-brad-marchand-to-rep-bruins/ |publisher = NESN.com |access-date = February 4, 2017 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Alec Martinez
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Curtis McKenzie
• {{flagicon|USA}} Andy Miele
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Brenden Morrow
• {{flagicon|USA}} David Moss
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Matt Moulson
• {{flagicon|SWE}} Douglas Murray
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Rick Nash
• {{flagicon|DEN}} Frans Nielsen
• {{flagicon|SWE}} Anders Nilsson
• {{flagicon|USA}} Brooks Orpik{{cite web |title = Brooks Orpik, Pittsburgh Penguins |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-brooks-orpik |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Zach Parise
• {{flagicon|USA}} George Parros
• {{flagicon|CAN}} David Perron
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Corey Perry
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Dion Phaneuf
• {{flagicon|USA}} Jason Pominville
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Carey Price{{cite web |title = Shea Weber, Carey Price, Nashville Predators, Montreal Canadiens |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-all-stars-weber-and-price |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Brandon Prust
• {{flagicon|FIN}} Tuomo Ruutu
• {{flagicon|SWE}} Henrik Sedin
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Andrew Shaw{{cite web |title = Andrew Shaw surprise name among NHL's LGBTQ ambassadors |url = https://sports.yahoo.com/news/andrew-shaw-surprise-name-among-nhls-lgbtq-ambassadors-225513458.html |work = Yahoo! Sports |date = February 2, 2017 |access-date = February 4, 2017 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Ben Smith
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Brent Sopel{{cite web |title = Brent Sopel takes Stanley Cup to Chicago's Pride Parade |date = June 27, 2010 |url = http://nhl.nbcsports.com/2010/06/27/brent-sopel-takes-stanley-cup-to-chicagos-pride-parade/ |publisher = NBC Sports |access-date = February 4, 2017 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Matt Stajan
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Steven Stamkos
• {{flagicon|USA}} David Steckel
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Joe Thornton{{cite web |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-crisp-davis-reece-thompson-thornton-wondolowski-zito |title = Bay Area All-Stars |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = August 15, 2013 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Chris Tierney
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Jonathan Toews
• {{flagicon|USA}} Jacob Trouba
• {{flagicon|USA}} RJ Umberger
• {{flagicon|USA}} James van Riemsdyk
• {{flagicon|USA}} Trevor van Riemsdyk{{cite web |title = NHL names LGBTQ ambassadors for each team; Andrew Shaw to represent Canadiens |url = http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/hockey/blackhawks/ct-nhl-lgbtq-ambassadors-andrew-shaw-20170202-story.html |work = Chicago Tribune |date = February 2, 2017 |access-date = February 4, 2017 }}
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Shea Weber
• {{flagicon|CAN}} Kevin Westgarth
• {{flagicon|USA}} Ryan Whitney{{cite web |title = Ryan Whitney |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-ryan-whitney |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = September 15, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Tommy Wingels{{cite web |title = Tommy Wingels, San Jose Sharks |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-tommy-wingels |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Colin Wilson
• {{flagicon|CAN}} W. Brett Wilson (Predators owner){{cite web |title = W. Brett Wilson |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-the-owners-w.-brett-wilson |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = September 13, 2012 }}
• {{flagicon|USA}} Keith Yandle
• {{flagicon|NOR}} Mats Zuccarello

}}

Brian Burke appeared on TVOntario in July 2012 to talk about You Can Play. In response to a question about whether the NHL is ready to accept gay players, he said, "Before we started, we went to the NHL and said, 'Does this have your support?' and Gary Bettman was like, 'Absolutely.' He knew Brendan, and he was like, 'Absolutely, that day can't come soon enough.'"{{cite web |title = Brian Burke: Homophobia and Hockey |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqIeFbTrfjc |publisher = The Agenda with Steve Paikin |access-date = July 5, 2012 }} On April 11, 2013, the NHL and NHLPA announced an official partnership with You Can Play, including a commitment to educate prospects on LGBT issues and provide avenues for players to seek confidential counseling related to sexual orientation.{{cite web |title = NHL and NHLPA Announce Partnership with You Can Play |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/nhl-and-nhlpa-announce-partnership-with-you-can-play |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = April 11, 2013 }}

Landeskog's support in January 2014 made history because it meant that each National Hockey League team had at least one player supporting The You Can Play Project. In December 2016, Anders Nilsson began wearing a mask with a gay pride flag painted on the back as a sign that ice hockey welcomes diversity, drawing praise from Wade Davis for "taking a risk on multiple fronts and standing up for something that he believes in, knowing the backlash that could come his way."{{cite news |title = Inside the Sabres: Nilsson proudly waves pride flag |first = John |last = Vogl |date = December 4, 2016 |access-date = December 9, 2016 |newspaper = The Buffalo News |url = http://buffalonews.com/2016/12/03/inside-sabres-nilsson-proudly-waves-pride-flag/ }}

On February 2, 2017, the NHL and its partners announced as part of Hockey is for Everyone month that each of its 30 member teams will have one player designated as a You Can Play ambassador. In June 2019, Kurtis Gabriel became the first NHL player to play a game while using Pride Tape, which was usually saved only for warmups.{{cite web |last1=Douglas |first1=William |title=Gabriel scores big win for inclusion with use of Pride Tape in NHL game |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/kurtis-gabriel-was-first-nhl-player-to-use-pride-tape-in-game/c-307671020 |access-date=April 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191130155117/https://www.nhl.com/news/kurtis-gabriel-was-first-nhl-player-to-use-pride-tape-in-game/c-307671020 |date=June 3, 2019|archive-date=November 30, 2019}}

Several American Hockey League teams have created videos for You Can Play and/or taken the You Can Play Pledge, a pledge to support the campaign's principles signed by the entire organization. These teams include:

{{columns-list|colwidth=20em|

• The Albany Devils
• The Bridgeport Sound Tigers{{cite web |title = You Can Play Pledge – Bridgeport Sound Tigers |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHCcsXpkg-Q |via = YouTube |access-date = February 20, 2013 }}
• The Charlotte Checkers{{cite web |title = Charlotte Checkers |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-charlotte-checkers |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}
• The Hamilton Bulldogs{{cite web |title = You Can Play – Hamilton Bulldogs |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mw2HTaGAfLU |via = YouTube |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}
• The Manchester Monarchs{{cite web |title = Manchester Monarchs |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-manchester-monarchs |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}
• The Peoria Rivermen{{cite web |title = Peoria Rivermen |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-peoria-rivermen |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}
• The Portland Pirates{{cite web |title = Portland Pirates |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-portland-pirates |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}
• The Providence Bruins{{cite web |title = Providence Bruins |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-providence-bruins |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}
• The Rochester Americans{{cite web |title = Rochester Americans |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-rochester-americans |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = May 10, 2013 }}
• The Toronto Marlies{{cite web |title = Toronto Marlies |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-toronto-marlies-pledge |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}

}}

A number of colleges and universities from across North America and Canada have contributed videos to the campaign. This list includes:

{{columns-list|colwidth=20em|

• The America East Conference{{cite web |title = America East ADs |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-america-east-athletic-directors |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 |archive-date = January 21, 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130121140819/http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-america-east-athletic-directors |url-status = dead }}
• Amherst College{{cite web |title = Amherst College |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-amherst-college |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Bates College{{cite web |title = Bates College |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-bates-college |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Bowdoin College{{cite web |title = Bowdoin College |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-bowdoin-college |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• Brown University{{cite web |title = Brown University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-brown-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Bryant University{{cite web |title = Bryant University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-bryant-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Colorado College women's soccer {{cite web |title = Colorado College – Women's Soccer |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-colorado-college-womens-soccer |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 19, 2013 }} and men's basketball{{cite web |title = Colorado College – Men's Basketball |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-colorado-college-mens-basketball |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 19, 2013 }}
• Connecticut College{{cite web |title = Connecticut College |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-connecticut-college |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Cornell University{{cite web |title = Cornell University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-cornell-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Dartmouth College{{cite web |title = Dartmouth College |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-dartmouth-college |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Duke University{{cite web |title = Duke University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-duke-university |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• Georgetown University{{cite web |title = Georgetown University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-georgetown-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• George Washington University{{cite web |title = George Washington University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-george-washington-university |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• Grand Valley State University{{cite web |title = Grand Valley State University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-grand-valley-state-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Louisiana State University{{cite web |title = Louisiana State University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-lousiana-state-university-rec |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Memorial University of Newfoundland{{cite web |title = Memorial University of Newfoundland |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-memorial-university-of-newfoundland |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Miami University{{cite web |title = Miami University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-miami-university |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• Northeastern University{{cite web |title = Northeastern University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-college-week-northeastern-university |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• The Ohio State University{{cite web |title = The Ohio State University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-the-ohio-state-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Portland State University Campus Rec{{cite web |title = Portland State University Campus Rec |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-portland-state-university-campus-rec |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Princeton University{{cite web |title = Princeton |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/college-week-princeton-womens-ice-hockey |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute{{cite web |title = Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-rensselaer-polytechnic-institute |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Ryerson University{{cite web |title = Ryerson University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-ryerson-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• St. Thomas University (New Brunswick){{cite web |title = St. Thomas University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-st.-thomas-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Stanford University{{cite web |title = Stanford University |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-stanford-university |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• UCLA{{cite web |title = UCLA |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-college-week-ucla-bruins |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• University at Buffalo hockey{{cite web |title = University at Buffalo hockey |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-university-at-buffalo-hockey |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• University of Alberta{{cite web |title = You Can Play teams with University of Alberta for anti-homophobia work |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/you-can-play-teams-with-university-of-alberta-for-anti-homophobia-work |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}
• University of California, Berkeley{{cite web |title = University of California, Berkeley |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-uc-berkeley |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• University of Cincinnati{{cite web |title = University of Cincinnati |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-university-of-cincinnati |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• University of Connecticut{{cite web |title = UConn |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/uconn-mens-hockey-supports-you-can-play |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• University of Denver{{cite web |title = University of Denver |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-university-of-denver-hockey |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• University of Missouri{{cite web |title = University of Missouri |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-university-of-missouri |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• University of New Brunswick{{cite web |title = University of New Brunswick |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-univeristy-of-new-brunswick |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• University of Notre Dame{{cite web |title = University of Notre Dame |url = http://notredame.247sports.com/Bolt/Notre-Dame-Posts-Response-to-New-Indiana-Law-36543573 |access-date = April 13, 2015 }}
• University of Ottawa{{cite web |title = University of Ottawa |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-college-week-university-of-ottawa |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}
• University of Vermont{{cite web |title = University of Vermont |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-university-of-vermont |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}
• Wheaton College (Massachusetts){{cite web |title = Wheaton College |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-wheaton-college |access-date = February 20, 2014 }}

}}

In March 2012, the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League became the first Major Junior team to contribute to the You Can Play project.{{cite web |title = Soo Greyhounds |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-sault-ste.-marie-greyhounds |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}

On October 12, 2012, You Can Play published a video from DC United of Major League Soccer. This was the campaign's first public service announcement from a professional sports league outside of the NHL, as well as the first outside of hockey.{{cite web |title = DC United |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-dc-united |access-date = November 17, 2012 }} Two months later Toronto FC became the second MLS team, and the first Canadian soccer team, to support You Can Play.{{cite web |title = Toronto FC |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-toronto-fc |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 22, 2014 }} The following year, in 2013, Major League Soccer and the Major League Soccer Players Union partnered with You Can Play. "The diversity found in our league has always been a point of pride for us," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. "We are proud to partner with You Can Play to ensure that all of our fans and players know that MLS is committed to providing a safe environment where everyone is treated equally, and with dignity and respect."{{cite web |title = Major League Soccer and MLS Players Union announce You Can Play partnership |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/major-league-soccer-and-mls-players-union-announce-you-can-play-partnership |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}

On December 20, 2012, You Can Play announced an official partnership with the Canadian Women's Hockey League. In a statement, Patrick Burke said, "LGBT female athletes face a different set of problems than male athletes, but those problems are no less serious. This partnership will encourage both LGBT athletes and their numerous straight allies to speak up for each other, without fear of recrimination from teammates, coaches, fans, or sponsors." The CWHL is the first league to partner with You Can Play.{{cite web |title = CWHL Becomes First League to Partner with You Can Play |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/cwhl-becomes-first-league-to-partner-with-you-can-play |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}

In February 2013 the Colorado Mammoth became the first National Lacrosse League team to support You Can Play.{{cite web |title = Colorado Mammoth |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-colorado-mammoth |access-date = February 21, 2014 }} Later that year the Denver Outlaws joined the Mammoth in becoming the second NLL team to support the project.{{cite web |title = Denver Outlaws |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-denver-outlaws |access-date = February 21, 2014 }} In February 2019, the Toronto Rock held their first Pride Night in support of You Can Play.{{cite web |last1=Taylor |first1=Anna |title=NLL'S TOP TEAMS MEET IN TORONTO ON FRIDAY |url=https://www.nll.com/news/nlls-top-teams-meet-in-toronto-on-friday/ |website=nll.com |access-date=February 26, 2019 |date=February 14, 2019}}

In March 2013 the San Francisco Bulls of the ECHL became the first team in that league to partner with the You Can Play project.{{Cite web|url=http://sfbulls.com/|title=San Francisco Bulls Professional Hockey - SFBulls.com|website=sfbulls.com}}

In June 2013 Seattle Reign FC of the National Women's Soccer League published a video in support of the project, becoming "the first professional women's team in the United States to speak on behalf of You Can Play."{{cite web |title = Seattle Reign FC |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-seattle-reign-fc |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}

The Denver Nuggets became the first National Basketball Association team to partner with You Can Play in January 2014. One of the three Nuggets players who appeared in the video, Kenneth Faried, was already "a vocal supporter of equality" before joining the You Can Play project.{{cite web |title = Denver Nuggets, East High School |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-denver-nuggets-east-high-school |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 22, 2014 }}

In June 2017, U.S. Soccer partnered with You Can Play. The U.S. Men's and Women's National Teams wore pride-inspired rainbow numbers during the June friendlies. One set of game-issued jerseys from each team was auctioned for You Can Play.

In April 2012, The Sports Network released a You Can Play video wherein James Duthie, Darren Dreger, Pierre LeBrun, and Bob McKenzie promised to cover LGBT athletes without sensationalizing their sexual orientations.{{cite web |title = TSN Broadcasters |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-tsn-sportscasters-support-lgbt-athletes |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = June 12, 2012 }}

Akil Patterson, a former University of Maryland athlete and aspiring Olympian in Greco-Roman wrestling, contributed a video to the project, talking in detail about his struggles with addiction and his own sexuality.{{cite web |title = Akil Patterson |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-akil-patterson |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}

Jon Cornish of the Calgary Stampeders received media attention in 2012 when, after a practice during Grey Cup week, he revealed to reporters that his mother was a lesbian. His open admission of his mother's sexual orientation was part of a growing trend of acceptance of homosexuality and gave him "a seat at the head table of the You Can Play movement."{{cite web |title = CFL's Outstanding Canadian Jon Cornish has nothing to hand his head about |url = http://sports.nationalpost.com/2012/11/22/outstanding-canadian-jon-cornish-has-nothing-to-hang-his-head-about/ |work = National Post |access-date = February 21, 2014 }} Then, in late 2013, Cornish released his own 15-second video of support for the project, in which he said he "is proud to support LGBT athletes everywhere."{{cite web |title = You Can Play - Jon Cornish |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWjn5CtPM2Y |via = YouTube |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}

The band Fun joined the list of celebrity supporters when its video was published in November 2013.{{cite web |title = You Can Play - FUN. |url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEKavKIuYbw |via = YouTube |access-date = February 21, 2014 }} Each member of the band discussed his respective aspirations to be an athlete if he was not in the music industry, and stressed the fact that together the group "make[s] music for everyone."{{cite web |title = FUN. |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-fun |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}

Rapper Macklemore of Macklemore & Ryan Lewis added a video to the project, in which he talked about the need to be welcoming to everyone and that homophobic language has no place in sports or music. The duo's song "Same Love" was about the subject of homosexuality and gay rights, and was a success on charts around the world.{{cite web |title = Macklemore and Ryan Lewis |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/videos/entry/you-can-play-macklemore-ryan-lewis |access-date = February 21, 2014 }}

In December 2014, the You Can Play foundation and Egale Canada partnered with the Canadian Olympic Committee in a new program to combat homophobia in sports within the Olympic committee's mandate.{{cite news |url = https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/more-sports/canadian-olympic-committee-partners-with-leading-lgbtq-organizations-to-promote-equality-in-sport/article21883678/ |title = Canadian Olympic Committee partners with leading LGBTQ organizations to promote equality in sport |work = The Globe and Mail |date = December 2, 2014 }}

Since You Can Play has gained widespread support and recognition by North American professional leagues, they have been called to comment on challenging instances of homophobia involving professional athletes.

In July 2012, Cam Janssen of the New Jersey Devils appeared on an internet radio talk show, making several derogatory and threatening jokes involving women, gay-bashing, and his role on his team as an enforcer.{{cite web |last = Hughes |first = Travis |title = Cam Janssen Makes Gay Joke, Calls Kings 'Fat Broads You Regret Bangin{{'-}}' |date = July 12, 2012 |url = https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2012/7/12/3155651/cam-janssen-interview-video-devils |publisher = SB Nation |access-date = February 17, 2013 }} After speaking with Patrick Burke, Janssen apologized for his comments and expressed his support for You Can Play, and the campaign released a statement saying they believe Janssen's apology to be sincere.{{cite web |title = Statement Regarding Cam Janssen |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/statement-regarding-cam-janssen |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}

On September 15, 2012, Yunel Escobar, then a shortstop for the Toronto Blue Jays, played a game with a homophobic slur written in Spanish across his eye black. In response, the Blue Jays suspended their player for three games.{{cite news |title = suspension |url = https://www.cbc.ca/sports/baseball/mlb/blue-jays-suspend-yunel-escobar-3-games-for-anti-gay-slur-1.1205925 |access-date = November 17, 2012 |publisher = CBC News }} Twelve days later, Yunel sat down with Patrick Burke and LGBT athlete Jose Estevez to discuss the incident. Patrick Burke left the meeting feeling confident in the interaction between Yunel and Jose. He is quoted as saying: "I thought the meeting was very productive. Yunel seemed genuinely interested in what Jose had to say, and appeared to really take it to heart. I think Jose did a tremendous job of making Yunel fully grasp the implications behind his actions."{{cite web |title = Yunel Escobar and YCP |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/you-can-play-meets-with-escobar-blue-jays-management |access-date = November 17, 2012 }}

Just prior to the 2013 Super Bowl, Chris Culliver of the San Francisco 49ers responded as follows to an interview question about whether he had any gay teammates: "We don't have any gay guys on the team ... They gotta get up outta here if they do. Can't be with that sweet stuff." You Can Play, GLAAD, and Athlete Ally released a joint statement condemning these views. Culliver subsequently apologized and pledged to grow from the experience.{{cite web |title = You Can Play Issues Joint Statement on 49ers' Chris Culliver Anti-Gay Comments |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/you-can-play-issues-joint-statement-on-49ers-chris-culliver-anti-gay-commen |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 17, 2013 }}

The 2014 Winter Olympics caused a stir given the controversial status of LGBT rights in Russia, the host country, that prevented gay propaganda from being spread, and threatened jail time and punishment for those who disobeyed the law. You Can Play sought out many options aimed at protesting the Games, but none were viable options because of the fine line "between advocating" for the LGBT community, "and exploiting" it.{{cite web |title = You Can Play and Grantland look at Sochi Olympics from unique perspective |url = http://youcanplayproject.org/news/entry/you-can-play-and-grantland-to-look-at-sochi-olympics-from-a-unique-perspect |publisher = You Can Play Project |access-date = February 22, 2014 }}

Instead they worked with groups who would not only be able to do work during the Olympics, but continue to do work once the Games finished. Another decision You Can Play made was to partner with Grantland, which was not without controversy.

Grantland was criticized after it ran an article revealing the transsexual background of a doctor without her consent,{{cite web |title = Dr. V's magical putter |date = January 15, 2014 |url = http://grantland.com/features/a-mysterious-physicist-golf-club-dr-v/ |publisher = Grantland |access-date = February 22, 2014 }} which needed two follow up pieces from the editor-in-chief {{cite web |title = The Dr. V story: A letter from the editor |date = January 20, 2014 |url = http://grantland.com/features/the-dr-v-story-a-letter-from-the-editor/ |publisher = Grantland |access-date = February 22, 2014 }} as well as a contributor, who is also on the board of directors of GLAAD,{{cite web |title = What Grantland got wrong |date = January 20, 2014 |url = http://grantland.com/features/what-grantland-got-wrong/ |publisher = Grantland |access-date = February 22, 2014 }} to explain why the story was run.

After discussing both internally and with supporters, however, You Can Play made the decision to remain partnered with Grantland for the duration of the Olympic Games. You Can Play's role was to provide the link between the sports perspective in the stories and the LGBT community's perspective.

On April 19, 2016, during Game 4 of the Chicago Blackhawks' first-round series against the St. Louis Blues, Andrew Shaw was penalized for interference with 2:04 remaining in the third period while the Blackhawks down by a goal. He was recorded using an anti-gay slur during a tirade in the penalty box, and the recording circulated widely on social media. As a result, the NHL suspended him for Game 5, fined him $5,000 for related hand gestures, and ordered him to undergo sensitivity training.{{cite web |title = NHL suspends Andrew Shaw one game; forward apologizes for homophobic slur |url = http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/hockey/blackhawks/ct-andrew-shaw-discipline-homophobic-slur-20160419-story.html |work = Chicago Tribune |date = April 20, 2016 |access-date = February 4, 2017 }} The following day Shaw apologized to the gay and lesbian community saying "That's not the type of guy I am" and that "I have no excuses for ..." getting caught up in the heat of the competition.{{cite web |title = Blackhawks' Andrew Shaw on homophobic slur: 'I have no excuses for anything' |url = https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2016/04/20/andrew-shaw-slur-chicago-blackhawks-stanley-cup-playoffs/83293468/ |work = USA Today |access-date = February 4, 2017 }} After the press conference, Shaw personally apologized to Chicago Tribune reporter Chris Hine, who is gay.{{cite web |title = Andrew Shaw's slur sheds light on homophobia in sports |url = http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/columnists/ct-shaw-homophobic-slur-blackhawks-spt-0421-20160420-column.html |work = Chicago Tribune |date = April 20, 2016 |access-date = February 4, 2017 }} Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews, who had previously recorded a You Can Play video, said the incident was a learning experience for Shaw. After being traded to the Montreal Canadiens during the off-season, Shaw volunteered to be the team's ambassador to You Can Play as "a leader in the locker room and in the community on diversity, equality and inclusion."{{cite web |title = Canadiens Notebook: Andrew Shaw named team ambassador for You Can Play |url = http://www.hockeyinsideout.com/news/canadiens-notebook-andrew-shaw-named-ambassador-for-you-can-play |work = Montreal Gazette |access-date = February 4, 2017 }}{{cite web |title = Why Andrew Shaw decided to be Canadiens' LGBTQ ambassador |url = https://sports.yahoo.com/news/why-andrew-shaw-decided-to-be-canadiens-lgbtq-ambassador-192635257.html |work = Yahoo! Sports |date = February 3, 2017 |access-date = February 4, 2017 }} The announcement was met by skepticism by some.{{cite web |title = Andrew Shaw as a YCP Ambassador? A Cause for Concern. |date = February 3, 2017 |url = http://www.outsports.com/2017/2/3/14507378/andrew-shaw-as-a-ycp-ambassador-a-cause-for-concern |access-date = February 4, 2017 }}

{{portal|LGBTQ}}

• Homosexuality in sports
• Homophobia
• LGBT rights movement
• Principle 6 campaign

{{Reflist}}

• [http://youcanplayproject.org Front]

Category:LGBTQ political advocacy groups in Canada

Category:LGBTQ political advocacy groups in the United States

Category:Anti-homophobia

Category:American LGBTQ-related web series

Category:Canadian LGBTQ-related web series

Category:LGBTQ sports organizations in Canada

Category:LGBTQ sports organizations in the United States

Category:Organizations established in 2012