The Portland Pirates become the fourth American Hockey League team to take the You Can Play Pledge as part of the league’s ongoing relationship with You Can Play to end homophobia in sports. In addition to appearing in the spot, the video is edited by team members.
“It’s great that the Pirates have joined the You Can Play cause by taking the Pledge,” said Pirates foward Andy Miele. “I hope that our efforts, as well as the efforts of other teams that have taken the Pledge, will help raise awareness for You Can Play and help eliminate homophobia in sports.” Pirates forward Andy Miele is a You Can Play advisory board member and, along with Miami University RedHawks teammate Tommy Wingels, provided the first player donations to You Can Play Project. Miele won the Hobey Baker Memorial Award in 2011 as the nation’s best hockey player.
Appearing in the video (in order of appearance) are Pirates players Andy Miele, Chris Summers, Alexandre Bolduc, Ethan Werek, Brendan Shinnimin, Chris Brown, equipment manager John Krouse, and Head Coach Ray Edwards.
Celebrating its 20th season in the AHL, the team is the minor league affiliate of the Phoenix Coyotes.