The discussion surrounding the TPS hockey team's participation in a pride-themed game took a surprising turn after Veli-Matti Savinainen, a forward for the team, chose not to wear the associated themed jersey. Kirsi Mikkonen, chairperson of Turun Set, publicly invited Savinainen to discuss face-to-face the importance of the pride flag, showcasing the ongoing dialogue around visibility and representation in sports. This initiative is part of a Facebook post by the organization, aiming to emphasize the values of equality and inclusivity in hockey.

The SM-Liiga game between TPS and Tampereen Ilves had a 'With Pride from Turku' theme, wherein players donned jerseys embellished with rainbow colors to celebrate diversity. Ahead of the match, TPS expressed the intention of raising awareness about equity and the significance of every individual feeling welcomed in the sport, both on and off the ice. The notion that hockey belongs to everyone was a central message communicated in their match preview.

The controversy arose from the fact that while all other players embraced the thematic apparel, Savinainen's choice to abstain led to criticism and highlighted the challenges within professional sports regarding LGBTQ+ representation. His subsequent comments on social media indicated a focus on his role as a hockey player, suggesting a reluctance to engage in discussions outside of his athletic responsibilities. This situation underscores the ongoing societal discourse surrounding inclusivity and the potential impact of athletes' decisions in this space.