Update: The International Triathlon Union reverses “propaganda” rule on LGBTQ symbols in races
As reported today by Outsports, the International Triathlon Union has decided to reverse a recent rule change that would have banned rainbow flags or other symbols of LGBTQ pride under a propaganda ban. It's important to give credit where credit is due. We applaud the International Triathlon Union for understanding how a rule banning LGBTQ symbols of […]
College Athletics Veteran, IBM Diversity Exec Join You Can Play Board to Fight Homophobia in Sports
You Can Play Project announced today that it has added two new members to its Board of Directors: America East Conference commissioner Amy Huchthausen, and IBM diversity and LGBTQ markets development executive Kimberley Messer. The addition of these two front runners in the fight for equality and respect in sports and business will help You […]
Los Angeles Valiant establish unprecedented partnership with You Can Play
LOS ANGELES (June 1, 2018) — The Los Angeles Valiant announced today the formation of a social change partnership with the You Can Play Project, an organization dedicated to ensuring safety and inclusion for all who participate in all sports — including LGBTQ+ players, coaches, and fans. You Can Play has found prominence with support […]
Scotiabank is Supporting You Can Play with a $20,000 Donation to Promote Inclusion in Sport
Scotiabank is continuing its support of You Can Play with a $20,000 donation to support educational outreach to university and kids’ community hockey leagues through complementary LGBTQ+ inclusion in hockey workshops and resources. To symbolize Scotiabank’s support of You Can Play and their work focused on inclusion in sport, You Can Play was presented with […]
You Can Play names Ryan Pettengill as its executive director
Non-profit executive and Ironman athlete Ryan Pettengill has been named the executive director of You Can Play, the group’s board has announced. Ryan joins You Can Play with more than 20 years of experience in athletics and health promotion, and he has worked extensively with athletes of all levels, specifically focused on improving sports culture […]
You Can Play awarded 2017 IOC Trophy for Sport Beyond Borders
TORONTO (November 30, 2017) — On Saturday, November 25, the Canadian Olympic Committee’s (COC) Awards and Recognition Committee presented the 2017 International Olympic Committee (IOC) Trophy for Sport Beyond Borders to You Can Play. Since 1985, the IOC has awarded a trophy to recipients identified by National Olympic Committees in their respective communities that highlight […]
Statement on NHL Draft Being Awarded to Dallas
Statement On the NHL Draft Being Awarded to Dallas We would encourage our partners at the NHL to carefully consider the message sent to fans – all fans – by holding the 2018 NHL Draft celebration in a state that has chosen to write discrimination into law. Hosting events like the draft is a privilege. […]
U.S. Soccer Partners With You Can Play
CHICAGO (May 26, 2017) – In recognition of LGBTQ Pride month in June, U.S. Soccer will activate a number initiatives in partnership with the You Can Play Project, along with the U.S. National Soccer Team Players Association and the Women’s National Team Players Association. The You Can Play Project is an organization dedicated to ensuring […]
You Can Play Seeks Applicants for Executive Director
Mission: To ensure the equality, respect, inclusion and safety of all in sports, including LGBTQ athletes, coaches and fans. You Can Play works to guarantee that athletes are given a fair opportunity to compete – judged on their skills, work ethic and competitive spirit without regard to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. If you […]
Patrick Burke Leaves You Can Play; Brian Kitts Assumes Role as President
Patrick Burke Leaves You Can Play as Advocacy Group Hits Milestone; Brian Kitts Assumes President’s Role with Reaffirmed Commitment to LGBTQ Inclusion in Sports The You Can Play Project today announced that co-founder and president Patrick Burke has retired from the organization that promotes LGBTQ inclusion in sports. “You Can Play has never been […]