Real-Life Hockey Player Inspired by Rivalry to Publicly Come Out as Gay

Jesse Kortuem, a former hockey player, has publicly come out as gay, inspired by the show “Heated Rivalry.” Although he never played in the NHL, Kortuem participated in several leagues as a defenseman and center. His passion for hockey kept him from revealing his sexuality for years.

Inspiration from Heated Rivalry

Kortuem shared that the success of “Heated Rivalry” touched many closeted individuals in the hockey community. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from former teammates after announcing his truth. “I never imagined something this positive could emerge from a sport often seen as hyper-masculine,” he stated.

A Personal Journey

Reflecting on his past, Kortuem described the internal conflict of being an athlete while grappling with his sexuality. Growing up in Minnesota, known as the #StateOfHockey, he felt pressure to conform to traditional masculine ideals in sports. “I loved the game, but the fear of being open about my identity kept me silent,” he said.

Turning Point

• At 17, Kortuem left his high school hockey team, fearing the social implications of coming out.
• Years later, he returned to the ice but still hid his sexuality from teammates.
• The pivotal moment came when he participated in the Sin City Classic gay sports tournament in Las Vegas.

At this tournament, Kortuem formed meaningful connections with fellow gay players, paving the way for personal acceptance and community support. “That moment changed everything for me,” he noted, highlighting the importance of shared experiences among LGBTQ+ athletes.

A New Beginning

Recently, at an event hosted by The Cutting Edges Hockey Club in Sun Peaks, BC, Kortuem felt a sense of belonging. Wearing the team’s jersey symbolized bridging the gap he had long experienced. “Standing on that ice finally felt like home,” he reflected.

Jesse Kortuem’s story serves as a beacon of hope for athletes still in the closet. His message encourages others to embrace their identities, stating, “There is a deep happiness waiting for you on your path.” The journey may be challenging, but support and acceptance are possible within the sporting community.