erin Ambrose Leads 2SLGBTQ+ Inclusion with Innovative Pride Apparel in the PWHL
Montreal Victoire’s defender, Erin Ambrose, is breaking new ground off the ice by unveiling her second collection of Pride-inspired apparel in collaboration with CCM Hockey. This initiative bridges hockey culture and the 2SLGBTQ+ community,promoting visibility and acceptance within a sport historically known for its conservatism.
Empowering Symbols: The Intersection of Identity and Resistance
A highlight from Ambrose’s newest line is a bold gray t-shirt showcasing a raised fist wearing a hockey glove draped in a vivid rainbow flag. The glove carries the uplifting phrase “Be you,” representing both resilience and pride.
Ambrose regards this design as her moast meaningful yet, explaining that “the raised fist symbolizes standing strong for those confronting adversity.” For her, it goes beyond apparel-it serves as a powerful emblem against ongoing discrimination faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
The Fusion of Athletic Excellence and Advocacy
This collection embodies two core aspects of Ambrose’s life: an elite athlete-Olympic gold medallist and 2024 PWHL Defender of the Year-and an openly gay woman dedicated to fostering safer environments for marginalized groups. The range includes shirts, hats, and sweatsuits featuring subtle rainbow accents or striking graphics that celebrate Pride thoughtfully.
The Journey Toward Openly Wearing Pride
At 31 years old from Keswick, Ontario, Ambrose shares how she has grown increasingly agreeable displaying rainbow symbols publicly over time. While some settings still prompt caution, she confidently sports her Pride gear during everyday moments like walking her dog or running errands.
The collection strikes a balance between understated details-such as discreet rainbow touches on CCM logos-and eye-catching pieces like the gloved fist shirt. This allows individuals to express their identity authentically at their own pace without pressure.
A Milestone Moment for CCM Hockey
The introduction of a rainbow-colored CCM logo marks important progress within hockey culture. As one of Canada’s oldest sporting brands with over 100 years primarily linked to men’s hockey equipment, this move signals growing support for diversity across all levels of sport.
PWHL: A Trailblazer in Inclusivity Within Professional Hockey
The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) distinguishes itself from leagues such as the NHL by openly embracing its diverse roster. Numerous players identify as part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community-including stars like Boston Fleet forward Jamie Lee Rattray and Ottawa Charge forward Emily Clark-who actively champion inclusivity both on ice and beyond.
This welcoming spirit was vividly demonstrated when a fan journeyed more than 500 miles from New York City to Montreal dressed entirely in rainbow attire during their team’s recent Pride game.Touched by this dedication,Ambrose presented them with memorabilia after noticing their outfit-a brief encounter that left lasting impressions on both sides.
Depiction That Resonates Beyond Sport
“that moment wasn’t just about meeting one fan; it highlighted how much safer people feel attending PWHL games compared to others,” reflected Ambrose on that experience.
Reflecting on her own youth navigating sexuality while pursuing competitive hockey without visible role models wearing Pride gear makes these developments deeply significant for Ambrose today. She recognizes how increased openness among teammates can transform experiences for future generations entering sports traditionally lacking representation or acceptance.
A Vision Extending Past Sportswear: Where Style Meets Community
Dale Williams from CCM Hockey initially invited Ambrose to collaborate focusing on foundational basics; now entering its second year-the Erin Ambrose ’23 Collection pushes boundaries further by blending authentic style into spaces where hockey rarely intersected before:
- sincerity: Designs reflect genuine personal expression rather than superficial gestures;
- Cultural Bridge: Connecting athletic identity with social advocacy;
- togetherness: Inspiring fans and players alike to feel welcomed regardless of background or orientation;
“Our mission extended beyond apparel-we aimed at cultivating belonging far outside traditional rink walls,” stated Marrouane Nabih, CEO at CCM Hockey.”
Pride Apparel That Speaks Loudly today
The Strength Found in Proudly Expressing Your Truth
“I’m proud not only becuase I’m gay but because I can use my platform positively,” says Erin Ambrose reflecting on what it means personally-and professionally-to fully represent herself through sportswear designed explicitly around inclusion themes.
With global awareness rising rapidly-recent studies indicate nearly a 20% surge last year alone-in demand for inclusive sports merchandise-the timing couldn’t be more fitting.
Ambrose continues inspiring change inside locker rooms while encouraging fans everywhere who seek safe spaces where thay can belong without fear or compromise.
Her journey embodies hope that future athletes will face no barriers based on identity but instead celebrate diversity naturally woven into every aspect-from jerseys proudly worn under arena lights down through grassroots programs nurturing tomorrow’s champions across all communities alike.
