Fife Flyers Apologise Over Pride Jersey Decision
The UK's oldest ice hockey team, the Fife Flyers, has issued an apology following its decision not to wear specially-designed rainbow jerseys during a match intended to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
The team stated that its annual Pride Night, held on Saturday, was designed to honour diversity and foster an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
However, in a social media announcement, the Kirkcaldy-based club explained that the Pride-themed jerseys would only be worn during the warm-up session to respect the personal beliefs of its players.
For the match against Guildford Flames at the Fife Ice Arena, the Flyers reverted to their standard jerseys and were defeated 6-1.
In previous years, the Flyers have worn distinctive rainbow jerseys during Pride Night matches.
Club Statement on Jersey Usage
Prior to the game, the club released a statement clarifying the approach for Pride Night:
"Following internal discussion, we want to clarify how tonight's Pride Night will now be reflected on the ice.
"The team will wear Pride-themed jerseys during warm-ups and will compete in standard Fife Flyers home jerseys for the game itself.
"This approach allows us to support Pride Night while also respecting the diversity of backgrounds and personal beliefs within our playing group. Our commitment to inclusion and our support for the LGBTQ+ community remains unchanged."
Apology and Commitment to Inclusion
The day after the match, the club issued an apology acknowledging the "hurt and disappointment" caused by the decision.
A spokesperson for the Fife Flyers reaffirmed the club's dedication to inclusion and being a welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community.
"We are truly sorry for the impact this had and understand why it has caused upset amongst the community.
"We will reflect on this, continue listening, and work to ensure our values are better reflected in how we move forward."
Charity Auction and Reaction from The Hive Kirkcaldy
The Pride-themed match kit was intended to be auctioned to raise funds for The Hive Kirkcaldy, a local LGBTQ+ charity.
The Hive expressed being "extremely disappointed" by the club's decision and noted that they had not been informed beforehand.
"In light of this, The Hive have refused to accept any money, strip or donations from the club and left the match immediately.
"We will be writing to them regarding this. The Hive will always stand up for LGBTQIA+ rights and we will not be silenced."
Fife Pride's Response
Fife Pride also voiced its anger and deep disappointment over the Flyers' decision.
"Let us be clear: Pride is not a warm-up. Pride is not optional. And Pride is not something that should be compromised to accommodate 'personal beliefs'.
"When an organisation chooses to scale back visible LGBTQIA+ inclusion, that is a choice, and it has consequences.
"Decisions like this undermine trust, damage relationships with the community, and send a harmful message about whose identities are considered negotiable."
