In a world where the top two National Hockey League players were not just fierce competitors but also deeply in love with each other, Halifax author Rachel Reid has brought this intriguing scenario to life in her novel “Heated Rivalry,” soon to be adapted into a TV series on Crave. The story follows a Canadian NHL star who embarks on a forbidden romance with a Russian rival, setting the stage for a transformative journey in both their lives and the sport itself.
Rachel Reid’s collection of eight books, including “Heated Rivalry,” falls within the popular genre of hockey romance, which has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. These novels delve into steamy and explicit content, yet what sets Reid’s work apart is her creation of a world where LGBTQ hockey players can openly thrive, a stark contrast to the current reality where no openly gay player has graced the NHL’s ice in its 108-year history.
Writing as a form of activism, Reid uses her queer hockey romances to challenge the sport’s darker aspects, such as homophobia, racism, and sexual violence, aiming to offer a therapeutic outlet and push back against systemic issues plaguing hockey culture. Despite the lack of openly gay players in the NHL, progress is slowly being made, exemplified by Luke Prokop, the first active player under an NHL contract to come out as gay in 2021.
Organizations like You Can Play are working towards fostering inclusivity in sports, with the NHL making strides to support LGBTQ initiatives, despite occasional setbacks like the controversy surrounding themed jerseys. Simultaneously, grassroots efforts have emerged nationwide to create safe spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ hockey players, like the Halifax Mussels, providing a welcoming environment for marginalized individuals to reconnect with the game.
Reid’s novels have resonated with a diverse readership globally, with fans finding solace and connection through her narratives, particularly queer men who identify with the struggles and triumphs depicted in her works. By portraying queer representation in hockey, Reid hopes to challenge stereotypes and spark conversations around inclusivity in the sport, ultimately paving the way for a more diverse and accepting hockey community.
While women’s professional sports have made significant strides in LGBTQ+ inclusion, the NHL continues to lag behind in openly embracing gay players. Reid’s upcoming TV series adaptation of “Heated Rivalry” aims to spark dialogue and raise awareness around LGBTQ representation in hockey, potentially serving as a catalyst for change within the sport. As Reid anticipates the show’s premiere, she remains steadfast in her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in hockey through her groundbreaking storytelling.
