The North American “National Hockey League” (NHL) is adopting historic measures in support of gay athletes.  It’s the first time any men’s professional sports league has done so.

The NHL is partnering with the You Can Play Project, an advocacy group pledged to fight homophobia in sports.  They’re planning programs to train and counsel teams and individual players on LGBT issues.

“Our motto is Hockey Is for Everyone, and our partnership with You Can Play certifies that position in a clear and unequivocal way,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in the statement.

“We are delighted to reaffirm through this joint venture with the NHL Players’ Association that the official policy of the NHL is one of inclusion on the ice, in our locker rooms and in the stands.”

Other major North American sports leagues such as the National Football League, Major League Soccer, the National Basketball Association and Major League Baseball have anti-discrimination policies.

A few athletes have come out of the closet after retiring, but none have while they’re still playing.