NHL star sends powerful message to closeted gay hockey players.

While a number of professional athletes have come out as gay in North American pro sports, there has yet to be a high-profile National Hockey League player to do so while being an active player. 

What people do behind closed doors in no one else's business, however one current NHL star went out of his way this week to make sure that any players that may be closeted gay men would feel comfortable being open if they had to desire to do so.

“Don’t be afraid. You’ll be surprised by how many people are accepting,” said Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad, as per Boca Mag.

Many have suggested that hockey may not be an accepting sport, however Ekblad says attitudes have drastically changed in recent years, likely a reflection of society.

“Do I think it’s getting better? I think so. People are getting more educated and more understanding,” he says. “I would like to think the climate is getting better.”

It's a nice message for Ekblad, and hopefully if there are players in the NHL who felt uncomfortable this helps give them some level of comfort.