Luke Prokop Becomes First Active Player Under NHL Contract to Come Out as Gay

Nashville Predators prospect Luke Prokop came out as gay Monday on Twitter, making him the first openly gay player under contract for a National Hockey League team.

“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. Today I am proud to publicly tell everyone that I am gay.”

Prokop shared a bit of his story in his statement, saying that playing in the NHL has always been a dream for him. He also showed his gratitude for his friends, family and agents who have supported him “every step of the way.”

Prokop played for the Calgary Hitman junior league team for four years before the Nashville Predators drafted him in the third round in the 2020 NHL draft.

Nashville Predators prospect Luke Prokop came out as gay Monday on Twitter. Above, Prokop, #6 of the Calgary Hitmen, passes the puck against the Kelowna Rockets at Prospera Place on February 17, 2020 in Kelowna, British Columbia. Marissa Baecker/Getty Images

Prokop expressed his desire to ensure everyone is welcome within the hockey community, and he hopes to learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community and the people who laid the groundwork that enabled him to come out, his statement said.

“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 wrote.

This is a breaking story and will be updated as more information becomes available.