Last November Nilsson revealed a new CCM mask, which he wears when the Canucks play on the road. It's matte on the sides, glossy on top. His son Mio and fiancé (a pregnant silhouette) are on the top left and right corners, his hometown crest is also on top, while a bear ("symbol from back home") and pride flag ("to support my gay friends") are on the back, similar to the blue mask he wears at home.
The mask, created by David Gunnarsson of DaveArt, has garnered a great deal of attention, especially for the pride flag. A lot of work went into deciding what to put on his new mask, but the rainbow flag was a no-brainer.
During the 2015-16 season, as a member of the Edmonton Oilers, Nilsson was inspired by the team's efforts to raise awareness for the LGBTQ community. The following season, then with the Buffalo Sabres, he became the first NHL goalie to put a pride flag on his mask. He followed suit this season and has become an unofficial advocate of You Can Play, an initiative working towards equality for all in sports, including LGBTQ athletes, coaches and fans.
Instagram from @andersnilsson31: #YouCanPlay night tonight. #HockeyIsForEveryone
You Can Play believes "Locker rooms should be safe and sports venues should be free from homophobia. Athletes should be judged on talent, heart and work ethic, not sexual orientation and/or gender identity."
"That's exactly right," said Nilsson. "Some of my good friends back home are gay and it wasn't always easy for them growing up. Sports should be a safe place for people, regardless of their sexual orientation. Athletes are athletes and I proudly support that with the pride flag on my helmet."
Nilsson was recently recognized by the LGBTQ community in Sweden as he was named 'Hetero of the Year' at the QX Gay Gala. QX is the largest LGBTQ-media publisher in Scandinavia, celebrating its 20th anniversary.
Instagram from @andersnilsson31: More information
Nilsson is honoured to have received the award and proud he's helping initiate change and acceptance in sports.
"It's great to see that the rainbow flag on my goalie helmets has been getting so much attention," said Nilsson. "For me it is really important to be a good role model and show that hockey is for everyone. Especially when it comes to kids and teenagers.
"Everyone should feel welcomed to play hockey, no matter your sexual orientation, religion, or race."
On February 20th the Canucks host You Can Play night, in support of the NHL's Hockey is for Everyone initiative. Hockey is for Everyone uses the game of hockey - and the League's global influence - to drive positive social change and foster more inclusive communities.
Simply put, Hockey is for Everyone!
Watch: Youtube Video
