The Game
More than 500 spectators filled the Aspen Recreation Center on Saturday, Jan. 19 to witness team G-Force’s 7-3 win over the Eurotrash All-Stars during the fifth annual Aspen Friendship Cup, gay versus straight hockey game. Team G-Force, made up of an all-star group of gay athletes, faced off against Aspen’s Eurotrash All-Stars in an event touted as the tie breaker match to determine bragging rights. The Cup was previously tied 2-2 with team G-Force winning the last two years, making this year’s match all the more exciting.
“Both teams played hard and played to win during this tough and emotional game,” said Glenn Witman, captain of team G-Force. The capacity crowd was treated to a high caliber contest whose score remained close until well into the third period. “The spectators were so involved and got into the drama of the match as it unfolded. It was the biggest crowd ever and included more diversity than previous years – with a much larger group of straight spectators.”
“It was a ton of fun to play in front of so many people especially with a more balanced representation in the stands,” agreed Dave Elkin, member of the Eurotrash team.
“We want to foster an environment of tolerance and understanding where straight and gay athletes can embrace their similarities and enjoy a great game of hockey. I think we get closer to that goal with events like this. Everyone involved can feel comfortable being themselves while playing a sport they love. Stereotypes are quashed and it quickly becomes self evident that gays are great athletes too,” noted Witman. “Above all, even though it was a heated battle, it was a fun time. And next year’s game promises to be just as exciting as the rivalry continues.” |
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Independent filmmaker Bob King will showcase The Friendship Cup in his upcoming documentary. The film will present an in depth profile on many of the event’s players including backgrounds, personal histories, game highlights, interviews and insights. The film hopes to promote the idea that gay athletes can feel comfortable being open while competing at all levels of professional and recreational sports.
Associated with the Friendship Cup was a panel discussion held at the Wheeler Opera House entitled “Gays in Sports – the Invisible Athlete.” The forum was co-sponsored by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) and featured prominent members of the media and gay sports community including former NBA player John Amaechi and ESPN senior writer LZ. Moderating the event was the co-founder of the sports web site Outsports, Cyd Zeigler. “More than 70 people showed up for a very enlightening and engaging conversation and we hope to have a similar event next year,” commented Witman.
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