Britta Kahl, the ninth overall selection in the 2024 PWHL Draft, has apologized for the “hurt” she caused with her social media activity.
Karl, a center out of the University of Wisconsin, was selected by PWHL's Minnesota in the second round on Monday night in St. Paul, where her selection was met with boos at Roy Wilkins Auditorium and criticism from fans online, some of whom threatened to boycott the team.
Karl's social media activity sparked controversy in the weeks leading up to the draft. His “likes” on X included posts promoting COVID-19 conspiracy theories, attacking inclusive language toward transgender women and appearing to show support for Kyle Rittenhouse, the man who shot and killed two people and wounded a third during unrest in Kenosha, Wisconsin, following the killing of George Floyd.
On Friday night, Karl released a video in which X spoke directly to PWHL fans and addressed the controversy surrounding his social media activity.
Dear PWHL Fans…
(1/2) pic.twitter.com/srLPAa9b8e— Britta Curl (@brittacurl) June 15, 2024
“I specifically recognize that my social media activity has caused hurt across communities, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC people, and I want to apologize and take responsibility,” Karl said.
She added: “I do not, and never have, any hatred or criticism towards any group or individual.”
The PWHL also released a statement to fans on Friday night. The league's statement did not name Karl or directly address the controversy surrounding her draft selection, but it did emphasize the importance of inclusivity within the league.
“Our commitment remains the same: to build an inclusive league that develops, supports and elevates the best women's hockey players in the world, while fostering a safe and welcoming environment for our growing, diverse and passionate fan base.”
To our amazing and passionate fans: pic.twitter.com/DoVZDOm9VK
— PWHL (@thepwhlofficial) June 15, 2024
For the draft, Athletic All six teams confirmed that Karl was not on any “undraftable lists.” The Badgers captain had been expected to be drafted early after scoring 62 points at the NCAA level last season and playing for the U.S. at the 2024 Women's World Championship.
Minnesota head coach Ken Klee, who was in charge of the team's draft selections after the league and general manager Natalie Darwitz parted ways days before the draft, was heavily criticized for the selection. When asked about the decision, Klee said the team was trying to select the best player available.
“I've looked into her,” the coach said Monday night, “and she's obviously a great player. I've talked to my coaching staff and they've said she's a great kid, a great competitor, great in the locker room. I've talked to her teammates at USA and elsewhere and they've said, 'She's a great teammate, coach, you'd love to have her.'”
“I have played with countless teammates who had different personalities, religious beliefs, political views and lifestyles, but we have always maintained a mutual respect and love for one another,” Karl added in a statement.
“I think my former teammates, coaches and staff would agree that this is how I conduct myself when entering and leaving the locker room, but I want to better represent this to PWHL fans and the general public.”
“I have learned a lot from this experience and view it as an opportunity to develop humility and love. My goals in this league remain the same – to be a positive influence, a good leader and a good example, practice hard, play hard and give my heart to the people around me, the league and the sport.”
“To all of you who are still on the fence, I ask that you be generous in allowing me to prove who I really am. I'm so grateful to be here and to be a part of this. I appreciate your open minds and open hearts, and I'm really looking forward to seeing you all next season.”
(Photo courtesy of PWHL)
