2018 Pride Game

#PuckHomophobia: Australian Ice Hockey’s second year supporting LGBTIQ+ rights

The KODIAK Melbourne Mustangs Ice Hockey team will don rainbow jerseys Saturday July 7th, to challenge the CBR Brave in the annual Australian Pride Ice Hockey Game for LGBTQI+ rights.

The thrilling, high-contact pride game is an ongoing partnership with Amnesty International, Proud 2 Play, and Team Melbourne.  

“Last year’s pride game encouraged me to come out in the ice hockey community, because of the Mustangs initiative, I felt safe and accepted,” Liam Finning, Australian Ice Hockey Player.

"I'm proud to be part of a team that promotes equality for everyone," said Damian Bright, Melbourne Mustangs Pride Game Ambassador.

“No matter your sexual orientation and gender identity, you can play. We are thrilled to present our second annual pride game and look forward to wearing the pride colours for the event on July 7." Maxime Langelier-Parent, the Melbourne Mustangs Head Coach.

The games follow the success of AFL Pride games, and in the tradition of Ice Hockey Pride rounds in Canada, the world leaders in Ice Hockey.

“Sport has a unique ability to unite people. I’m so proud that we have the opportunity to extend the power of this to a pride game in 2018. The AIHL is for all Australians and as Captain of the CBR Brave I am proud to take on the role of pride ambassador. Our playing group are looking forward to playing our part in sending a strong message about our genuine commitment to inclusiveness” Matt Harvey, Captain of The Canberra Brave.

Game day activities will focus on educating punters, and eradicating LGBTIQ+ discrimination and homophobic language from the game.

The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is also getting involved in this year’s game by shining rainbow for the occasion.

Amnesty International Australia National Director Claire Mallinson, said, “Sport is for everyone. It’s great to see The Melbourne Mustangs taking a leadership role in ensuring the ice hockey rink is a place of fun and inclusion for all through it’s annual pride game.”

What:  Ice Hockey Pride Game

When: Saturday 7 July

Where:http://bit.ly/PrideMustangs

CBR Brave at Melbourne Mustangs

O’Brien Group Arena, Melbourne

Start Time: 5:00 PM