A pro soccer player known for her anti-LGBTQ+ views is refusing to play in team's Pride Night game [View all]

A National Women's Soccer League player with a public record of homophobic sentiment is declining to suit up alongside her teammates Friday night, when the team will be celebrating Pride Night.

North Carolina Courage defender Jaelene Daniels — formerly known by her maiden name, Hinkle — has opted out of the matchup against the reigning champion Washington Spirit. A devout Christian, Daniels reportedly refused to wear the Courage's rainbow-numbered jerseys meant to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, according to WRAL.

"Jaelene will not be rostered tonight as she has made the decision to not wear our Pride jersey," a spokesperson for the Courage told the North Carolina media outlet. "While we're disappointed with her choice, we respect her right to make that decision for herself.

"We're excited to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community with our fans, players, and staff tonight and look forward to hosting our first ever Pride Festival before kickoff," the team added.

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