Sean Avery, Uptown Sports go head-to-head on gay marriage issue

With the frequency of homophobic remarks in the world of sports (intentional or not), it's nice to see one athlete going out of his way to support gay rights.

Sean Avery of the NHL's Rangers recently appeared in a PSA supporting marriage equality in New York. Though the hockey player has landed himself in some hot water for being naturally outspoken, this is one case of being vocal that we can commend.

"I treat everyone the way I expect to be treated, and that applies to marriage," he says. "Committed couples should be able to marry the person they love. Join me in supporting marriage equality."

Avery's support has not gone unnoticed, and unfortunately that includes backlash in the sports world. Todd Reynolds, a player agent at Uptown Sports Management took to his company's Twitter account (Um, hello -- fired?) to voice his opinion on Avery's LGBT backing.

"Very sad to read Sean Avery's misguided support of same-gender 'marriage,' he tweeted. "Legal or not, it will always be wrong." Reynolds represents Carrie Underwood's hubby Mike Fisher, as well as Jonathan Bernier of the LA Kings.

Naturally, the management company has received significant kickback from Twitter users and the media. In an attempt to "clarify," Reynolds continued:

"To clarify. This is not hatred or bigotry towards gays. It is not intolerance in any way shape or form. I believe we are all equal... But I believe in the sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman. This is my personal viewpoint. I Do not hate anyone.'

Just a thought, but if it's a personal viewpoint, maybe keep it to a personal account rather than a professional one. As for claiming those comments are not "intolerance" -- Is it, in fact, possible to actively believe that we are "all equal" except for when it comes to legal rights?

While the use of a company wide account to promote one persons beliefs is infuriating, we're glad this issue is being brought to light. Many NHL fans have already voiced their displeasure with Reynolds' comments, and we are still anxiously awaiting Avery's response.

Watch the PSA that sparked it all below. What do you think of Avery and Reynolds' public statements?