Hockey Player Luke Prokop Comes Out as Gay, Makes NHL History

Hockey player and Nashville Predators prospect Luke Prokop just made National Hockey League history after coming out as gay on Monday. 

The 19-year-old opened up about his identity on social media. "While the past year and a half has been crazy, it has also given me the chance to find my true self," Prokop wrote. "I am no longer scared to hide who I am."

"It has been quite the journey to get to this point in my life, but I could not be happier with my decision to come out. From a young age I have dreamed of being an NHL player, and I believe that living my authentic life will allow me to bring my whole self to the rink and improve my chances of fulfilling my dreams."

According to ESPN, Prokop is "the first active player signed under an NHL contract to come out as gay."

Prokop continued, "I wouldn't be able to do this without my amazing family, friends, and agents - who have known this about me and met me with love and support every step of the way. I see that gay people are welcome in the hockey community, as we work to make sure that hockey truly is for everyone. 

"I may be new to the community, but I am eager to learn about the strong and resilient people who came before me and paved the way so I could be more comfortable today. This is just the beginning of my journey and I am excited to see where it takes me, both in hockey and in life.

"Thank you!"

Prokop told ESPN that before coming out, he "was extremely frustrated because I couldn't be my true authentic self." Last April, when his Calgary season ended because of coronavirus, he decided that he was done hiding who he was. "Enough is enough. I'm accepting who I am. I want to live the way I want to, and I want to accept myself as a gay man."

Welcome to the family Luke!