Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
Thanks to everyone who took the time to remember Brendan today. We are all so proud to see how far his love has spread.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
As to why we started @YouCanPlayTeam I never forgot an email Brendan got after he came out, from a young gay athlete.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
He wrote, "I always loved sports, and I never felt sports loved me back." And Brendan told me that is how many LGBT youth feel.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
And it was like the two halves of my life collided. My family and hockey suddenly were perceived by many to be in opposition.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
And that's how YCP was born. I love my family. I love hockey more than anything except my family. And I'll be damned if those don't align.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
So to those who support us, thank you. To those who support our mission but don't like me, I'm sorry. To those who oppose us, good luck.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
We will fix this or die trying. And if I have to burn down my professional career, my personal life, and everything else to make it, I will.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 2h
And if you're opposed to us and think you can outwork, outthink, outfight, or outlast us, you don't know me at all.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 1h
I'm 30 years old. I will be working in hockey for another 40 years. Better dig your trench deep and get cozy, because I'm not leaving.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 1h
Anyway, I'm done ranting. I just miss my brother. And this is the only way I can think of to honor him. Thank you all for the support.
Patrick Burke ‏@BurkieYCP 1h
Tommy Wingels scoring at the end of that rant is so perfect. He was there for Brendan since day one.