Openly Gay Defenseman Luke Prokop Joins Bakersfield Condors in Major AHL Move

Luke Prokop, a trailblazer in professional men’s hockey as the first openly gay player under NHL contract, has taken another significant step in his career by signing a one-year, two-way contract with the Bakersfield Condors for the 2025-26 American Hockey League (AHL) season . The Condors serve as the primary AHL affiliate for the Edmonton Oilers, firmly situating Prokop within a fresh NHL development system and expanding his opportunities to reach the highest level of the sport .

Prokop’s journey has been closely watched by both the hockey world and the LGBTQ+ community. In 2021, Prokop made headlines as the first player with an NHL contract to come out as gay, a move widely recognized as a pivotal moment in the sport’s history . Since then, Prokop has remained vocal about the importance of visibility and representation, using his platform to advocate for greater acceptance and safe spaces in men’s hockey .

With his move to the Bakersfield Condors, Prokop continues to challenge stereotypes in professional sports, demonstrating that LGBTQ+ athletes have a rightful place at every level of competition. This signing is particularly significant as it comes at a time when conversations about inclusion and diversity are intensifying both inside and outside the world of sports .

The Bakersfield Condors, who have a history of developing talent for the NHL, announced Prokop’s signing alongside three other players ahead of their home opening weekend set for October 18 and 19 at Dignity Health Arena . The team’s announcement was met with an outpouring of support on social media, with fans and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups celebrating Prokop’s continued presence in professional hockey .

Prokop, a defenseman with a reputation for strong leadership and steady play, has previously spent time with several AHL and ECHL teams, including the Milwaukee Admirals and Reading Royals . His addition to the Condors roster adds both skill and depth to the blue line, and his experience will be pivotal as the team aims for a competitive season .

Prokop’s visibility in professional hockey continues to resonate far beyond the rink. For many LGBTQ+ fans and aspiring athletes, his success is a source of inspiration and hope. Advocacy groups have highlighted his achievements as evidence of the slow but steady progress towards inclusivity in traditionally conservative sports environments .

Commenting on Prokop’s journey, LGBTQ+ sports organizations have underscored the importance of seeing openly gay athletes in developmental leagues like the AHL, which serve as direct pipelines to the NHL. “Luke Prokop’s continued presence in the AHL is a powerful reminder that the game is for everyone, and that visibility matters at every level,” one national advocacy group stated in a recent post .

Prokop himself has previously spoken about the impact of his decision to come out, noting that the support he has received from teammates, coaches, and the broader hockey community has been “overwhelmingly positive” .

As the Bakersfield Condors prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Prokop as he builds on his already historic career. The AHL remains a critical stepping stone for players with NHL aspirations, and Prokop’s journey will be closely followed by fans, scouts, and LGBTQ+ advocates alike .

For Prokop, the move is both a professional opportunity and a chance to further his mission of fostering inclusion in hockey. His signing with the Condors signals not only a new chapter in his personal career but also a win for visibility and acceptance in men’s sports. As the new season approaches, Prokop’s story serves as a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the ongoing push for equality on and off the ice.