NHL backtracks on ban on supporting social causes, including Pride tape

The NHL had instituted the ban via a league-wide memo sent to its 32 teams ahead of the 2023/24 regular season, drawing criticism from players, fans and a number of prominent organizations.

"After consultation with the NHL Players' Association and the NHL Player Inclusion Coalition, players will now have the option to voluntarily represent social causes with their stick tape throughout the season," the NHL said in a statement on Tuesday.

The decision by the NHL comes three days after Arizona Coyotes defenseman Travis Dermott became the first player to defy the ban with colourful tape wrapped around the shaft of his stick during his team's home opener.

The You Can Play Project, an organization that works to ensure the safety and inclusion of all who participate in sports, called the NHL's decision to reverse its ban "a win for us all".

"Actively welcoming communities into hockey is imperative to keep the sport strong now and into the future," You Can Play said in a statement posted on social media.

"We appreciate every person, team and organization that made their voice heard to support this change and appreciate the NHL's willingness to listen and make the right choice."

NHL Pride Night events, which were designed as a show of support for LGBTQ+ fans and athletes, were thrust under an unwelcome spotlight last season as some teams and players objected to participating.