Brock Mcgillis is leading a revolution in the Hockey World. Let’s reflect on sad truth for a moment. Historically, the world of professional sports has not been a haven of inclusivity, especially for the LGBTQ+ community.

The sports industry has not made it easy for gay athletes to feel accepted. Sports are ripe with a culture that often radiates traditional, sometimes toxic, masculinity.

However, in recent years, a transformative wave has been sweeping across the sports industry.  

Brock McGillis, a former professional hockey player, is leading for change. He’s hosting the “Culture Shift Tour.” This 100-day journey across Canada is a tour with the goal of touching the lives of young hockey players.

Brock McGillis’ Personal Journey of Breaking Barriers and Coming Out

Brock McGillis’ story is a powerful narrative of resilience and courage. Facing the ingrained homophobia in hockey, Brock set off on a personal journey. That journey that would not only change his life, but inspire countless others to be their authentic selves.

In November 2016, he made the brave decision to come out publicly. This challenged the stereotypes and prejudices prevalent in the sports industry. In hockey it challenges them more because the sport is often aggressive and testosterone driven.

This groundbreaking moment was a turning point for the entire hockey community. It opened doors to conversations about inclusivity and acceptance in sports.

Brock Mcgillis’ “Culture Shift Tour” is A Call for All to Be Themselves

The Culture Shift Tour is proof of Brock’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive sports environment. Addressing high-school-aged hockey teams across Canada, Brock shares his experiences, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice.

His talks give insight into the importance of empathy. He explores the power of allyship, and the need for a supportive community in sports. Brock’s approach resonates deeply with young athletes, many of whom are navigating their own identities. 

His message is clear: sports should be a safe space for everyone. A place where everyone regardless of their sexual orientation feels valued and respected.

Planting Seeds of Change: Broadening the Impact

Brock’s influence, although focused on the LGBTQ community, sheds light on general, broader issues within the Hockey industry. He addresses broader issues of marginalization, including challenges faced by people of different races, faiths, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

His efforts are sowing seeds of change. He iscreating ripple effects that are reshaping the landscape of hockey and sports in general.

The anticipation for his upcoming tour in the United States reflects the need for such transformative initiatives in sports.

Creating a Community of Acceptance

Brock McGillis’ journey is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in challenging and changing deep-seated norms. Norms that are just as much societal as cultural.

His “Culture Shift Tour” is, on the surface, a series of talks. But, behind his powerful words is a movement towards a more inclusive and accepting world. As we reflect on Brock’s inspiring journey, we are reminded of the power of community. His journey reiterates the importance of standing together against those who aim to keep us down.

To all our readers, we pose the following question to you.

How can we continue to drive inclusivity and acceptance in all areas of life, including sports? 

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s continue the conversation Brock is starting. Let’s pave a path to creating a more inclusive world for everyone. 

If you’ve ever been ostracized when playing sports, feel free to share. When we keep things bottled up inside, others who are experiencing the same will never know. If nobody knows others are experiencing the same issue, it never becomes a discussion. Failing to start a discussion leads to communal stagnation.

Reflect on Brock Mcgillis, his powerful message and tour, and remember that you too can drive change. And, most importantly,  require a tour. A simple word of goodwill sent to a struggling community member can make a huge impact.