British hockey captain, Hollie Pearne-Webb, has made the announcement that she will once again be showcasing a rainbow armband at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This decision is intended to convey the message that sport is a safe and inclusive environment for individuals of all sexual orientations.
Despite undergoing back surgery in February, Pearne-Webb has defied expectations and secured her placement at the Olympic Games for the third time. As a member of the team that achieved gold at Rio 2016 and bronze at Tokyo 2020, she is continuing her tradition of wearing a rainbow armband to demonstrate solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.
In her own words, Pearne-Webb stated, “I do it because I think we should strive for equality and ensure that everyone feels comfortable in their environment, especially in sports. It’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels at ease and knows that we, as a team, are allies who support the idea that sports should be inclusive for all.”
This Olympics holds a special significance for Pearne-Webb, as it will be the first time that her family will be able to attend. Her family was unable to attend the events in Rio, and fans were unable to come to Tokyo due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Additionally, Aldi’s Nearest & Dearest programme is providing crucial support to athletes like Pearne-Webb, helping to minimize distractions and enabling them to focus on their performance during this extraordinary opportunity to compete on a global stage.
Pearne-Webb also expressed her excitement about having her young nephews present at the games, underscoring the immense importance of this opportunity to her.
The road to Paris has been challenging for Pearne-Webb, who battled a back injury in September 2023. She underwent intensive rehabilitation leading up to the crucial Olympic Qualifier in Valencia in January, where Team GB secured their place in the tournament.
Given the timeline of her back surgery in February, Pearne-Webb faced a race against time to regain her fitness for selection. Her determination and the support from the medical team, surgeons, and physios played a pivotal role in her recovery and eventual selection for the Games.
Looking ahead to the competition, Pearne-Webb highlighted the experience within the women’s squad, which includes four athletes from the Rio 2016 games. She emphasized the team’s potential to be a top contender but also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of women’s hockey, stating, “In women’s hockey, the Dutch are the top team, and anyone can beat anyone on any given day.”
Pearne-Webb’s resolute stance and determination underscore her commitment to advocacy and inclusivity in sports. Her choice to wear the rainbow armband conveys a strong message of support for the LGBTQ+ community, reinforcing the notion that sports should be a welcoming and accepting environment for everyone. As she prepares for her final Olympic Games, Pearne-Webb’s unwavering spirit and dedication truly embody the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.