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Our Founding

Sport has a unique way of uniting people, igniting friendships, and changing lives. When we met in 2011, Patrick had been invited by Glenn to speak at a forum for athletes at the University of Denver. Glenn and Patrick had mutual friends. Brian showed up at the invitation of Glenn, who he’d known while working for the Avalanche and while Glenn was working with GForce Sports. Without much discussion other than hockey small talk, but with a real determination, we began a year-long process to leverage what we know about sports, and what we felt about what is right, into You Can Play.

Along the way, we’ve been able to choose our teammates and they’ve chosen us – men and women to whom we owe tremendous gratitude. Some of their efforts have been great assists, some have been jaw-dropping game changers. We thank them all.

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Brendan Burke's Legacy

Brendan Burke was an amazing advocate, hockey player, and example for a generation of athletes. He was unfortunately taken too early by a car accident, but not before Brendan had come out to his team and the public while at Miami University and was one of the first to do so in the hockey world. You Can Play was founded with Brendan and all the other athletes in mind who struggle with their sexuality, gender identity and their sport. 

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Read about Brendan's Life

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The Founding

In 2011 discussions began between Brendan's brother Patrick Burke, and Glenn Witman and Brian Kitts. Kitts and Witman were both passionate about LGBTQ+ advocacy within sport and working to make change. Once teamed up, they founded You Can Play in early 2012 and the progress was launched!

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The Early Years

Out of the gate, You Can Play found traction within the NHL and many professional leagues, as well as collegiate and youth programs. Early success brought an ESPY award, recognition from the UN on humanitarian efforts and several leagues signing on to make positive change within their organizations. 

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Continued Success

Our continued work focuses on the persistant need for inclusion efforts at the pro and participation level of sport. Every day we are reminded of the need for education, awareness, tools & tips, voices sharing their stories and attention on the issues that keep many kids out of sport. We will not alter our course until sport is a welcoming and safe home for all athletes, regardless of sexuality or gender identity, because if you can play, YOU can play!

You Can Play flag at Pride Parade

Just a few of the Awards You Can Play has earned through the years:
 

  • GLAAD Media Awards – Outstanding Video, Sports, 2013

  • ESPN Stuart Scott ENSPIRE Award – 2015

  • 1st LGBTQ sports advocacy group to address United Nations Human Rights Commission – 2015

  • National Education Association Award for Creative Leadership in Human Rights – 2016

  • International Olympic Committee Sport Beyond Borders Award – 2017

Meet the Founding Team

Many more individuals, teams, leagues and supporters deserve a place in our recognition and deep gratitude for their help in getting You Can Play off the ground.

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