Katie Thomas of The New York Times did a story Friday March 21st about the collision between Tradition and Taunts at the New York Ranger games.

There is a fan called Dancing Larry in New York, who is something of a cult figure. He dances during the last 10 minutes of many Ranger games from his perch in section 407. Like many teams with recognizable fans, Larry elicits a rather healthy response.

There is one problem. Part of that chanted response is a homophobic slur.

During the final 10 minutes of many Rangers home games, the spotlights focus on Section 407 as Larry Goodman, a longtime season-ticket holder, pumps up the crowd with a goofy dance.

As Goodman’s routine is broadcast on the giant monitors above the ice, a familiar chant picks up momentum. “Ho-mo Lar-ry!” the crowd shouts. “Ho-mo Lar-ry!”

The chant is one example of what several gay hockey fans describe as a toxic atmosphere during Rangers games and that Madison Square Garden, which owns the team, is not doing nearly enough to address their concerns.

Kevin Jennings, a Rangers fan who is gay, said he stopped attending home games for about a month this season because he felt so uncomfortable with the homophobic epithets that are shouted to the players. (Read the full NYTimes Story)

The story illustrates the delicate balance between getting your fans to react and respond and tacitly encouraging a more negative response that might damage part of your fan base. The story discusses several fans who have stopped attending games, or feel uncomfortable going to games due to the chants.

It’s an interesting read and something to consider. While the Ranger’s aren’t leading those chants, by putting the iconic Dancing Larry on the screen they are almost insuring the chants are heard.

It was interesting that the Rangers don’t seem interested in openly addressing it with the advocacy groups who are offering help.

Six from Six Game Review: New York Rangers