The National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players’ Association threw their weight behind gay rights advocacy today, announcing a partnership with the You Can Play project to combat homophobia in sports.

It doesn’t look like the NHL’s gesture is purely symbolic. You Can Play will provide LGBT training for new players on NHL teams, and counseling on related issues for players who want it. The partnership will also speak out publicly against any homophobic remarks made by NHL players in the future. Here’s the official statement from league commissioner Gary Bettman:

“Our motto is ‘Hockey Is For Everyone,’ and our partnership with You Can Play certifies that position in a clear and unequivocal way. While we believe that our actions in the past have shown our support for the LGBT community, 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.”

The partnership will also produce PSAs on LGBT issues featuring NHL players. A few NHL players, it should be noted, have already participated in You Can Play campaigns in the past year.

Although other professional sports leagues have non-discrimination policies that address sexual orientation, the NHL’s announcement goes further. You Can Play founder Patrick Burke (who works as a scout for the Philadelphia Flyers) thought the league’s more international player base might have something to do with their ability to come out more strongly for gay rights.

Click here for the full story.