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Jailyne Daniels, a defender in the National Women’s Soccer League, did not participate in a North Carolina adventure game Friday night. Refusing to wear the jersey of pride, The team confirmed
A team spokesman told the media before the start of the game that Daniels, 29, would not be on the field for Friday’s match. Against the Washington Spirit Because of her decision not to wear Courage’s Pride-themed jersey.
Washington Spirits defender Kelly O’Hara, left, and North Carolina Courage defender Jailyn Hinkle Daniels fight for a ball during an NWSL game at Audi Field on March 30, 2022 in Washington, DC.
(Randy Leitzinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“Jileen will not be rostered tonight because she has decided not to wear our Pride jersey,” the statement read via ESPN. “While we are disappointed with his choice, we respect his right to make that decision for ourselves.
Several players took a break from the organization’s Pride Night logo citing religious reasons
“We are excited to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community with our fans, players and staff tonight and look forward to hosting our first Pride Festival ahead of kickoff.”
According to Sports Illustrated, Daniels, who signed a one-year deal with Courage in December, turned down an offer to play for the women’s national team in 2017 after refusing to wear the Pride jersey in 2017.
Jailyne Daniels of the North Carolina Courage is seen passing the ball against Angel City FC at the Bank of California Stadium on April 29, 2022 in Los Angeles.
(Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
The club issued a statement following reports of his signing after facing harsh criticism.
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“The decision to re-sign Jaylen was not made lightly and involved important conversations between the organization’s leadership and Jelyn,” said the open letter to fans via ESPN. “The priority expressed in those conversations is the safety of our players and maintaining an inclusive, respectful space for the entire team.”
Daniels later issued her own statement addressing the controversy on social media.
Jalen Daniels of the North Carolina Courage instructs her team during a game against Portland Thorns FC on July 17, 2020 in Herriman, Utah.
(Brian Byerly/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
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“I’ll be committed to my faith And I want people to know that my love for them is not based on their belief system or sexuality. I respect and love them. ,
He has yet to comment on Friday’s incident.