San Jose Sharks goaltender James Reimer won't wear the team's Pride jersey in warmups for Saturday night's game against the New York Islanders.
Reimer won't participate in warmups and will dress as the team's backup for the contest, according to SJ Hockey Now's Sheng Peng.
"For all 13 years of my NHL career, I have been a Christian - not just in title, but in how I choose to live my life daily," Reimer said in an official statement.
He added, "In this specific instance, I am choosing not to endorse something that is counter to my personal convictions, which are based on the Bible, the highest authority in my life.
"I strongly believe that every person has value and worth, and the LGBTQIA+ community, like all others, should be welcomed in all aspects of the game of hockey."
The Sharks emphasized their "values and dedication to an inclusive, welcoming, and safe environment for all guests" in an official statement addressing Reimer's decision.
"We also acknowledge and accept the rights of individuals to express themselves, including how or whether they choose to express their beliefs, regardless of the cause or topic," the statement continues. "As an organization, we will not waver in our support of the LGBTQIA+ community and (will) continue to encourage others to engage in active allyship."
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov refused to wear his team's Pride jersey during warmups in January.
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