Thunderbirds Announce Partnership with You Can Play

Halifax, NS (December 23, 2019) – The Halifax Thunderbirds announced today a partnership with You Can Play for their January 11th home game against the Colorado Mammoth. As part of the night, both organizations will work together to show that lacrosse is welcoming of all coaches, players and fans, including those from the LGBTQ+ community.

This partnership will focus on ensuring equality, respect and safety for all coaches, athletes and fans, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.

"We are incredibly honoured to partner with You Can Play, and not only support, but prove that the sport of lacrosse is meant for everyone," said John Catalano, President and CEO of the Halifax Thunderbirds. "We can only hope that our partnership will help bridge the gap of inclusivity in sport and create lasting relationships across Halifax and Nova Scotia."

You Can Play works to guarantee that coaches, athletes and fans are given a fair opportunity to compete in any sport setting, from grassroots to professional level. It also seeks to challenge the culture of locker rooms and spectator areas by focusing only on an athlete’s skills, work ethic and competitive spirit.

"You Can Play is so appreciative of the generous support of the Thunderbirds organization and their fans,” said Ryan Pettengill, Executive Director, You Can Play Project. “This is an important message of support for inclusion in sport and helps ensure You Can Play's LGBTQ+ education focused programs reach as many young people as possible."

Throughout the game there will be various activations to bring awareness to the LGBTQ+ community. Fans can purchase a ticket package which will include a discounted ticket in the upper bowl and a t-shirt for $25 (plus HST). The proceeds from t-shirt/merchandise sales will be donated directly to You Can Play LGBTQ+ efforts. In addition, proceeds from the 51/49 raffle will go to the You Can Play LGBTQ+ efforts.

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