David Booth’s Pride Night Decision Sparks Controversy, Fallout in UK Hockey
David Booth has never been shy about his faith. During his NHL days - including a stint with the Detroit Red Wings - he was open about his Christian beliefs. Now skating for the Fife Flyers in the UK’s Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), those beliefs have landed him at the center of a firestorm.
In what was supposed to be a night celebrating inclusion and support for the LGBTQ+ community, Booth’s refusal to wear a Pride Night jersey during pregame warmups triggered a series of events that left the Flyers organization scrambling and their fans - and community partners - feeling blindsided.
Pride Night Plans Altered After Booth’s Refusal
The Flyers have a long-standing tradition of honoring the local LGBTQ+ community with a Pride Night game, complete with specially designed jerseys and a postgame auction benefiting a chosen charity. This year, that charity was The Hive - a local organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth.
But in his first season with the Flyers, Booth declined to wear the Pride-themed jersey. As a result, the team made a last-minute change: instead of wearing the jerseys during the game, players would wear them only during warmups, then switch back to their regular kits for puck drop.
Booth opted out of the warmup entirely, refusing to wear the jersey in any capacity. His jersey was also removed from the postgame auction, a key part of the team’s annual fundraising efforts for LGBTQ+-focused causes.
The Flyers later issued a public apology, acknowledging the pain and disappointment caused by the decision and reiterating their commitment to inclusion. They stated the choice to alter the night’s plans was made to “respect the diversity of personal beliefs” among players - a delicate balancing act that left many feeling the team had come up short.
Community Fallout and Charity Rejection
The fallout was swift.
Representatives from The Hive, who had come to the arena expecting to be part of a celebratory evening, were informed of the change just before puck drop. Upon learning that the team would not be wearing the Pride jerseys during the game, they left the rink and declined to accept any donations from the team.
That decision sent shockwaves through the local hockey community - and beyond. Fans and allies rallied in support of The Hive, donating thousands independently in a show of solidarity. But the damage to the Flyers’ relationship with the LGBTQ+ community was already done.
Booth Injured Minutes Into Game
In a twist of fate, Booth’s night ended early - and painfully. Just five minutes into the game against the Guildford Flames, the 41-year-old forward suffered a leg injury and had to be helped off the ice by teammates and staff.
It was a rough ending to a night that had already been emotionally charged. Booth, who played 530 NHL games - including 28 with the Red Wings in the 2017-18 season - had been trying to extend his career overseas. That Detroit stint saw him put up four goals and one assist, a modest but meaningful contribution from a veteran presence.
A Night That Will Linger
For the Flyers, this was more than just a midseason game. It was a moment that tested the organization’s values, its relationship with the community, and its handling of internal differences. The team now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust with fans and local partners who expected more than a compromise.
For Booth, the situation underscores the complexities athletes can face when personal beliefs intersect with team initiatives - especially those centered around inclusion and visibility. Whether or not he returns to the ice this season, the ripple effects of his decision will likely be felt long after his injury heals.
The Flyers have said they remain committed to inclusion. But actions - and timing - speak louder than words. In this case, the message was muddled, and the community noticed.