The Fife Flyers only wore the Pride-themed jersey during warm-ups. (Facebook/Fife Flyers)
An LGBTQ+ group’s fundraiser has surpassed its goal after it condemned a Fife ice hockey team for scrapping plans to wear rainbow jerseys for a Pride match at the last minute.
The Hive, a “non-discriminatory” community hub based in Kirkcaldy, Fife, criticised the Fife Flyers after the team refused to wear Pride jerseys during a match on its Pride Night in support of the organisation.
On Saturday (31 January), Fife Flyers posted on Facebook to explain that they would wear the Pride-themed jerseys only for warm-ups, playing the match in their standard home jerseys.
“This approach allows us to support Pride Night while also respecting the diversity of backgrounds and personal beliefs within our playing group,” the Facebook statement read, adding that a post-game auction of the Pride jerseys would go ahead in aid of The Hive.
The statement went on to promote the event’s partners, The Hive, before adding: “We believe hockey is for everyone, and we remain dedicated to fostering a space where all fans, players, and staff feel respected, valued, and welcome.”
However, The Hive hit back at the last minute change, posting to Facebook to share that they had “no knowledge” it would happen.
In a statement that has received more than 880 likes, the organisation shared it was “disappointed”, adding: “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 standup for LGBTQIA+ rights and we will not be silenced.”
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In response, the Hive set up a fundraiser that has already doubled its £1,000 goal.
Fife Pride took to Facebook to share that it was “angry” and “deeply disappointed” at the decision made by the team.
“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’,” the post began.
It continued: “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.”
Fife Flyers published an apology on Sunday (1 February) which acknowledged the “hurt and disappointment” felt by fan over the decision not to wear the Pride jerseys.
The statement read: “We are truly sorry for the impact this had and understand why it has caused upset amongst the community.
“The Fife Flyers are committed to inclusion and aim to be a welcoming club for the LGBTQ+ community and for everyone who supports our team.
“We will reflect on this, continue listening, and work to ensure our values are better reflected in how we move forward.”
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