Soccer star Josh Cavallo made history when he became one of the very few soccer players to declare themselves openly as gay.
Soccer Star Josh Cavallo Makes History By Coming Out-‘It’s OK To Be Gay And Play Football.’
The stigma surrounding gay men within high-level sports has been around for a while, with several sports stars coming out after their playing careers have ended.
While there has been work going on behind the scenes to enable players to feel comfortable within themselves, Josh’s actions were still very bold.
The Australian soccer player made the decision to reveal his sexuality in the most emotional manner. In an official video, Josh said: “I’m a footballer, and I’m gay. All I want to do is play football and be treated equally.
“I know there are other players living in silence. I want to help change this, to show that everyone is welcome in the game of football.”
The announcement received a positive response on social media. One fan wrote: “Dear @joshua.cavallo, we applaud you for your bravery and strength to come out, and we support you all the way!”
Nevertheless, Josh did risk receiving some backlash given that he is in a male-dominated sport. But in leading by example, he wants to ensure that he can encourage others to take that brave step.
He stated: “I want to inspire and show people that it’s OK to be yourself and play football. It’s OK to be gay and play football.”
The footballing authorities, in response, have come out to lend their support to him. The Premier League, which is known for arguably having the best footballing league in the world, had this to say: “The footballing world is behind you, and we wish you all the very best.”
In making this move, Josh joins another Australian soccer player Andy Brennan who came out as gay in 2019. And much, in the same way, Andy’s actions have led others to do the same.
Josh has changed the way that gay men will be viewed within sports, and it is only a matter of time that others follow his lead. And the fans will be there to support whoever does do that.
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