The world of athletics and the LGBT community can appear to be two seemingly separate and hostile spaces for some people. The reality, however, is that LGBT athletes play a critical role in all sports and are no different from their straight teammates and competitors in regards to athletic ability.  Although some may think that allowing LGBT athletes to be open will ruin a team's dynamic or chemistry, I think many would argue the opposite.  An all-inclusive environment that celebrates people's differences can only help a team or an individual's level of achievement.  
     
At Princeton, we have recently launched our own version of Athlete Ally in order to raise awareness of LGBT issues on our athletic teams.  From an outsider's perspective, Princeton may appear to be relatively conservative, but I have found this to be an inaccurate judgment of the campus environment. Although the university places a large emphasis on tradition, Princeton is very progressive and its students and faculty are incredibly accepting and supportive of those who are different.  Princeton's success in athletics is one of the school’s many traditions. As one of the leading competitor's in the Ivy League, I think it is Princeton's responsibility to show its support for the LGBT community on our varsity sports teams. 

The goal of Princeton Athlete Ally is to create a more inclusive and less hostile environment for those student-athletes who identify as LGBT.  By giving allies the means to express their support for the LGBT community, we hope individuals will feel more inclined to open up to their teammates.  One of the most important parts of Athlete Ally at Princeton is the belief that anyone can be an Athlete Ally.  Whether someone is a player, fan, parent, coach or referee, everyone can support this movement.  Allies can be straight or not straight, sexual orientation does not matter, what does matter is that people stand up for what they think is right. Every student has a right to play and sexual orientation or gender identity should never inhibit individuals from excelling or contributing to their team’s goals.    

"As a global sport, soccer knows no boundaries," said Silverbacks General Manager Andy Smith. "No matter your race, sex, religion, or sexuality, soccer is and always should be open to everyone."

Members of the Silverbacks team, coaching staff, and front office pledged their support to several organizations whose missions are to promote equality and gay rights in sports. One organization that Smith, head coach Brian Haynes, and other members of the Silverbacks family pledged their support to this week was Athlete Ally.

Based in New York, Athlete Ally was formed in January 2011 to educate, encourage, and empower straight and LGBT athlete allies to combat homophobia and transphobia in sports. LA Galaxy midfielder Robbie Rogers, who is a member of Athlete Ally's advisory board and an ambassador for the organization, recently became the first openly gay man to play in a top North American professional sports league. The U.S. international announced his retirement and came out as gay in February after playing nearly eight professional seasons in the U.S., Holland, and England. After the outpouring of support he received following his announcement, he decided to return to the playing field with the Galaxy. 

Rogers' courageous announcement sent a message throughout the professional sports world, especially the soccer community. To the Silverbacks, it was an important message to support.

"What Robbie Rogers did was very brave, but nobody in professional sports, or anywhere for that matter, should have to fear acceptance based on their sexuality," Smith said. "I hope this opens the door for others after seeing the unbelievable support that he has received since his announcement."

The fans of the Carolina RailHawks, one of the Silverbacks' fellow North American Soccer League teams, gave Rogers a big ovation when he recently came on as a substitute for the Galaxy during a U.S. Open Cup match at WakeMed Soccer Park. It was just one of the many examples of how supportive the soccer community has been of Rogers and the entire movement to promote equality within the sport.

"I'm honored as a coach of a professional soccer team to promote and support equality in sports," Haynes said. "Soccer has been a sport for both males and females, regardless of their sexual preference. It's an equal rights sport, and with the Atlanta Silverbacks having both a men's and women's team, we support this equality wholeheartedly."

Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally, commented on the team’s support saying, "The Silverbacks' pledge to LGBT inclusion and respect in sports is a testament to their values and leadership, and sends powerful message to LGBT athletes and fans that soccer respects and welcomes them. I commend the team's leadership in taking the Athlete Ally pledge, and I look forward to the positive impact of this important moment."

The Silverbacks have already begun reaching out to local LGBT groups to investigate the possibilities of working together to promote the cause. For fans who want to learn more about Athlete Ally, they can visit the organization's website at athleteally.org.

The team, which currently sits in second place in the NASL standings, will go on the road this Saturday to play the Fort Lauderdale Strikers before returning home on June 22 to host the Tampa Bay Rowdies, the league’s defending champions. To purchase tickets, call 404-969-4900 or visit atlantasilverbacksfc.com.

"Athlete Ally is a proud partner in this effort as the NFLPA makes clear to all of its players that the union supports and welcomes them, regardless of sexual orientation, and to all LGBT fans that they are respected," said Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally. 

"I am extremely proud to be a part of this collaboration between Athlete Ally and the NFLPA's One Team Shop to raise awareness both of Pride month and the issue of tolerance and respect within the NFL itself," said Chris Kluwe, punter for the Oakland Raiders. "As players, we are role models to a wide variety of people, and this is a great way to send a message of empathy to those who love and watch the game. Also, I'm pretty stoked that people can buy something with my number on it."

"June is a special month for the LGBT community,” said Super Bowl Champion Brendon Ayanbadejo. I am extremely excited that the NFLPA Is adding its name to the list of ever growing allies. The simple fact that football players believe in equality for every human being Is going to make an impact on a lot of peoples lives."

The One Team Pride Shirts include the option to add the jersey number of the following players: Brendon Ayanbadejo, Connor Barwin, Scott Fujita, Steve Gleason, Chris Gocong, Chris Kluwe, Donte' Stallworth, Terrell Suggs and Eric Winston. 

The shirts are available for purchase immediately at the One Team Shop webiste, get yours here!

Coleman's career culminated at the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials where he earned a spot to compete for the United States team in the Greco-Roman 60 kg competition. Coleman, who is of Puerto Rican and African American descent, explained that he has faced discrimination on professional and personal levels and wants to commit to Athlete Ally's mission of ending homophobia in sports.

"I know the negative effects that hate and discrimination can have on people's lives, and that is why I insist that respect and equality stand strong in sport, regardless of people's race, gender, or sexual orientation," Coleman said. "Gay rights are particularly close to my family, and that's why I’ve chosen to take a stand against homophobia in sport - there is no place for it, whether referring to my personal friends or athletes across the world who I’ve never met. We are all equal human beings and deserve to be treated as such."

Akil Paterson who serves on the Athlete Ally Advisory Board and is an aspiring Olympian in Greco-Roman wrestling, directly helped connect Coleman to the organization. Patterson said, "Wrestling is one of the most diverse sports in the world. Regardless of your background, size, physical disabilities, weight, gender, nation of origin or sexual orientation, wrestling welcomes you. We hold firm in our faith that wrestling is and always will be one of the most inclusive sports in the history of humankind.  Ellis lives up to that value everyday and I think the international wrestling community respects him for it."

"I'm extremely proud to have an athlete with Ellis'  recognition, values and talents join this cause. It is a true testament to the movement that we are seeing Olympic athletes take action," said Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally. "With the sport of wrestling so close to my heart, as a former wrestler and now Division I wrestling coach, I am confident in saying that the power of supporting gay rights is permeating every sport, including wrestling, and making a difference for people across the globe. I salute Ellis for being such a role model and leader."

As an Athlete Ally Ambassador, Coleman joins NBA star Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), WNBA Player Kristi Toliver (Los Angeles Sparks), an NFL contingent of Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Oakland Raiders), Scott Fujita (New Orleans Saints), Donte Stallworth (New England Patriots), D’Qwell Jackson (Cleveland Browns), Connor Barwin (Philadelphia Eagles) and free agents Chris Gocong, and Eric Barton, tennis greats Andy Roddick, James Blake and Mardy Fish, MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, Dan Grunfeld (Israeli Basketball), Rashad Evans (UFC), 12 Minnesota United FC players, and four Australians in rugby stars David Pocock and James Hilterbrand, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, and World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell along with scores of college athletes who have already signed on.  Coleman will act as a liaison between Athlete Ally and the his peers in the wrestling world. He will help promote Athlete Ally’s mission to end homophobia in sports by speaking out to his peers, sport and fan base, and encouraging his colleagues to join in the effort.

"We are disappointed by Hibbert's comments, as that kind of language is disrespectful, has no place in sports and is antithetical to the NBA's policies. As an official partner of the NBA and NBPA, Athlete Ally works closely with the league on delivering trainings and workshops to educate players about LGBT inclusion and respect. The league is undoubtedly a leader in this area, and Roy's statement of apology clearly recognizes the harms of his comments. We are confident that the NBA will do its part to rectify the issue to the extent it can, comprehensively educate Hibbert, who seems genuinely apologetic, and make sure that these kinds of comments are soon a thing of the past."

Brendon Ayanbadejo added: "Hibbert's comments show his lack of awareness on this issue. He often talks about love and seems to be a positive and caring person. I think he has potential to be an ally and I hope he takes this moment and learns from it."

Brian Ellner, a leading LGBT advocate and Athlete Ally Board Member said, "Far too many young people look up to our sports stars, especially when on a stage as big as the playoffs.  We can't emphasize enough the need for education, because instances like this are harmful to youth. At the same time, we applaud the NBA's swift action and strong rebuke on this."

Roy Hibbert issued an apology this morning saying the following:

"I am apologizing for insensitive remarks made during the postgame press conference after our victory over Miami Saturday night. They were disrespectful and offensive and not a reflection of my personal views. I used a slang term that is not appropriate in any setting, private or public, and the language I used definitely has no place in a public forum, especially over live television. I apologize to those who I have offended, to our fans and to the Pacers’ organization. I sincerely have deep regret over my choice of words last night."

Cuban, an advocate of LGBT rights and gay inclusion in the NBA, has said he would be honored to have an openly gay player on the Mavericks. Cuban will advise Athlete Ally on its programming to help make sports a more welcoming environment for both LGBT athletes and fans.

"It's a new world. Everyone should know that they can be themselves in sports. Leagues like the NBA, their teams and players have a great opportunity to set an example and spread a message to people who are either LGBT or straight that our culture should be celebrated for diversity and individual authenticity."

Cuban's decision to join Athlete Ally is lauded by pioneer and tennis great, Martina Navratilova, another member of the advisory board.

"As this movement grows, it is important that athletes know that they have the support of team ownership and coaches. Mark Cuban being a vocal ally does just that, especially through his commitment to the programmatic work of Athlete Ally. I hope other people in positions of power and influence take Mark’s lead to further this international culture shift."

Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally said, "Mark Cuban is known for fearlessly speaking his mind on this issue, and his vision and role with Athlete Ally go even deeper than that.  As an advisory board member, Mark is helping to shape the course and impact of our organization. We're grateful for Mark’s support and excited to learn from him."

As an official partner of the NBA and NBPA, Athlete Ally works with the league on player development, delivering trainings at the NBA Combine, the NBA & NBPA Annual Rookie Transition Program, along with workshops for the Team Player Development Directors. The organization also published a pioneering resource for the NBA in the spring of 2013.

On the Athlete Ally Advisory Board, Cuban joins Navratilova, Super Bowl Champion Brendon Ayanbadejo, LA Galaxy star Robbie Rogers, NBA Executive Kathy Behrens, NFL pioneer David Kopay, NFL Network commentator Mark Kriegel, The Tennis Channel sportscaster Brett Haber, journalist and commentator LZ Granderson, WTA icon Rennae Stubbs, President of the Minnesota United Football Club Nick Rogers, Cornell University professor Beth Livingston, international Greco-Roman wrestler Akil Patterson and The Jim Rome Show’s Erin Sharoni.

Blake learned about Athlete Ally after Fish reached out to engage him in the cause. This kind of connectivity exemplifies the momentum and the peer-to-peer model of the Athlete Ally Ambassador program. In a similar way, we saw NFL veteran Scott Fujita recently inspire former teammates D'Qwell Jackson of the Cleveland Browns, and free agents Eric Barton and Chris Gocong to join the organization.

"We are seeing athletes across all sports take a stand and get their friends and teammates involved because when you love the game you play, you respect it. Joining our movement is a way for true sportsmen to demonstrate their commitment to fair play," said Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally Hudson Taylor. "James Blake has made the United States proud over the years both on the court and off of it and we are confident that his allyship will, in turn, embolden more allies to speak out as well."

Blake, who achieved a career high ranking of number four in the world, said, "I am proud to be affiliated with Athlete Ally because they do exceptional work that can actually make a difference in the sports world and beyond. Inclusion doesn't have to be a political issue, but more a human issue. As a mixed background person, I have been told I could be hated by both sides. I have always tried to look at it the opposite way as a positive that I could be accepted and included. I am extremely lucky and feel that everyone should have the feeling of acceptance."

Blake has racked up ten titles over the course of his career, reaching the semifinals of the Beijing Summer Olympics and the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open in 2005-06 and the Australian Open in 2008. He also started a research foundation in support of early cancer detection called The James Blake Foundation.

As an Athlete Ally Ambassador, Blake joins fellow tennis greats Andy Roddick and Mardy Fish, NBA star Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), WNBA Player Kristi Toliver (Los Angeles Sparks), an NFL contingent of Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Oakland Raiders), Scott Fujita (New Orleans Saints), Donte Stallworth (New England Patriots), D'Qwell Jackson (Cleveland Browns), Connor Barwin (Philadelphia Eagles) and free agents Chris Gocong, and Eric Barton, MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, Dan Grunfeld (Israeli Basketball), Rashad Evans (UFC), 12 Minnesota United FC players, and four Australians in rugby stars David Pocock and James Hilterbrand, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, and World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell along with scores of college athletes who have already signed on.  Blake will act as a liaison between Athlete Ally and the ATP. He will help promote Athlete Ally’s mission to end homophobia in sports by speaking out to his peers, sport and fan base, and encouraging his colleagues to join in the effort.

"I am forever grateful to the game of football for teaching me the value of teamwork and sportsmanship and honored that my former teammates recognize their responsibility as role models in our culture," Fujita said. "With each new Athlete Ally that speaks out, an LGBT athlete may feel more comfortable in his or her sport, and will know that there is support. It is clear by the advocacy of these players that Cleveland is a welcoming environment. That is something I am very proud of."

As D'Qwell Jackson, a team leader on defense, explained: "I believe that everyone should be treated the same. That's my thought as a person and as a teammate. Joining Athlete Ally is my way of letting it be known that I would respect any teammate - gay or straight - it just doesn't matter."

Chris Gocong, a member of the Browns for the past two seasons, added: "Scott Fujita was a pioneer in the player movement to create an inclusive environment in the NFL and I feel it is my duty to help continue that work as the league moves from tolerance to acceptance. I want to support any athlete to feel more comfortable and confident being himself."

Jackson, a team leader on defense, is entering his eighth season in Cleveland and was drafted by the Browns in 2006 out of the University of Maryland. The Philadelphia Eagles originally drafted Cocong, a linebacker who missed last season due to injury, in 2006. Barton, began playing his career in Oakland (1999-2003), and then played for the Jets (2004-08), and Browns (2009-10).

"It is important for athletes to be vocal on this front. Other wise sports would just maintain an informal  'Don't ask, Don't tell' kind of policy and that sends the wrong message to young people," said Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally.  Taylor added: "Athlete Ally's foundation is our programmatic work with professional sports leagues and at colleges and universities across the country. Yet, creating a welcoming sports environment emanates from the inspired work of the players who advance the cause. I salute D'Qwell, Chris, and Eric for standing up for what is right and providing vision moving forward."

As Athlete Ally Ambassadors, Jackson, Gocong, and Barton join the NFL contingent of Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Minnesota Vikings), Scott Fujita (New Orleans Saints), Donte Stallworth (New England Patriots), and Connor Barwin (Philadelphia Eagles), as well as tennis greats Andy Roddick and Mardy Fish, NBA star Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), WNBA Player Kristi Toliver (Los Angeles Sparks), MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, Dan Grunfeld (Israeli Basketball), Rashad Evans (UFC), 12 Minnesota United soccer players, and four Australians in rugby stars David Pocock and James Hilterbrand, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, and World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell along with scores of college athletes who have already signed on.  Jackson, Gocong, and Barton will act as liaisons between Athlete Ally and the league. Athlete Ally Ambassadors help promote Athlete Ally’s mission to end homophobia in sports by speaking out to their peers, sports and fan bases, and encouraging their colleagues to join in the effort.

The PSA is available here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zb9TKRiJ7Tk&feature=youtu.be

Earlier today, Athlete Ally announced that men's tennis stars Andy Roddick and Mardy Fish became the first of their sport to stand up for LGBT inclusion in athletics.

About Athlete Ally

Athlete Ally is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally calls on the athletic community to use its status and influence to help stop anti-gay bullying by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion in sports.

To contact Athlete Ally:

hudson@athleteally.org

609.712.4306

# # #





---------------------------------------------------------------------
Tim Kuck
National Basketball Association
Senior Specialist, Basketball Communications
p - (212) 407-8564

Andy Roddick noted: "Yesterday was an incredible day for athletes everywhere. Jason Collin's courage and leadership in coming out reminds me of how important it is for an athlete to be able to be true to him or herself.  As an Athlete Ally, I want to support every athlete to feel comfortable and confident being themselves and to make sure that all people - players and fans alike - are  welcome and included in tennis."

"Everybody deserves a shot at playing sports. It shouldn't matter in the least if that person is gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Building community through healthy and inclusive activities should be one of the main focuses behind athletics, and that isn't possible if you exclude LGBT individuals, especially our youth," said Fish.

Athlete Ally Advisory Board Member Martina Navratilova added: "It's people like Andy and Mardy who will help pave the way for LGBT athletes in tennis. Though coming out is an intensely personal decision, with each new Athlete Ally that speaks out, an LGBT athlete could feel more comfortable coming out."

Roddick is a retired American professional tennis player who ranked among the top 10 in the world for almost a decade including number one, winning the U.S. Open and Grand Slam Singles titles. Andy launched the Andy Roddick Foundation at 18 years old with the goal of developing and inspiring underserved youth through sports-based mentoring. He received the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award in 2005 and the Arthur Ashe Leadership Award in 2007. Roddick was also awarded the 2009 Heineken Star Award for his philanthropy.

An admired and decorated American tennis player of the last decade in his own right, Mardy Fish reached a career high ranking of number seven in the world in 2011, won a silver medal at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games, and has clamed six ATP titles in his career. Off-court, he is also a committed humanitarian.  Mardy establishing his own charitable organization, The Mardy Fish Foundation, which helps promote balanced, healthy lifestyles for youth in Indian River County, Florida.

No professional men's tennis player has ever publicly come out of the closet, but there have been gay male tennis players. Francisco Rodriguez came out after retirement in 2008, and one of the greatest of all time, Bill Tilden who dominated the sport in the 1920's, is widely known as having been gay. 

Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally said, "As Athlete Ally advances the conversation of LGBT inclusion in athletics, it's critical that we empower new voices and new sports. It's amazing to have our first Athlete Allies in professional men's tennis, and particularly powerful for them to be two of the world's most successful and admired players." Taylor added: "We couldn’t be happier to have such remarkable athletes join our organization, and we look forward to continued leadership in men's and women's tennis."

Taylor's enthusiasm was shared by fellow advisory board member Rennae Stubbs, who said: Athlete Ally has been moving the needle forward from sport to sport. We’re seeing allies in football, men's and women's basketball, hockey, rugby, cricket, UFC, soccer and now I am proud to say tennis. All these sports are standing up for principles common to every sport on Earth: respect, equality and acceptance."

Brett Haber, a host for Tennis Channel, who also serves on the Athlete Ally Advisory Board, said: "Tennis fans have applauded Andy and Mardy for years. They have been warriors on the court and inspirational figures for the battles they have fought off of it. Each is a tremendous humanitarian, and it’s only appropriate that these two leaders would be the first among men's professional tennis to take such a stand."

As an Athlete Ally Ambassador, Roddick and Fish join NBA star Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), WNBA Player Kristi Toliver (Los Angeles Sparks), Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Minnesota Vikings), Scott Fujita (New Orleans Saints), Donte Stallworth (New England Patriots), Connor Barwin (Philadelphia Eagles), MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, Dan Grunfeld (Israeli Basketball), Rashad Evans (UFC), 12 Minnesota United soccer players, and four Australians in rugby stars David Pocock and James Hilterbrand, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, and World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell along with scores of college athletes who have already signed on. Roddick and Fish will act as liaisons between Athlete Ally and the ATP. Athlete Ally Ambassadors help promote Athlete Ally’s mission to end homophobia in sports by speaking out to their peers, sports and fan bases, and encouraging their colleagues to join in the effort.

About Athlete Ally
Athlete Ally is a no--profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally calls on the athletic community to use its status and influence to help stop anti-gay bullying by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion in sports.

To contact Athlete Ally:

hudson@athleteally.org
347.699.2632
Also connect with Athlete Ally on
Twitter: www.twitter.com/athleteally,
Facebook: www.facebook.com/athleteally, YouTube:www.youtube.com/user/AthleteAlly
or by visiting http://www.athleteally.org

"I applaud Jason Collins and his decision to be the first openly gay male athlete in a major American team sport. He is paving the way for a more accepting and welcoming environment in the world of professional sports."

"I hope that Collins' decision to go public with this news will make all people feel comfortable enough to follow in his footsteps. I look forward to meeting Jason Collins and working with him in the future."

Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally said, "We know that today’s announcement marks the end of what must have been a long and challenging process for Jason Collins. As we continue to educate and empower straight allies, we will do everything in our power to help create a welcoming environment for all in basketball. We are confident that the NBA, which has shown very tangible leadership on this issue, will do everything necessary to support its pioneering player."

Brian Ellner, a leading LGBT advocate and Athlete Ally Board Member added: "Jason Collins has had a fantastic career, two trips to the NBA Finals, he's enormously respected by all, and a great leader on the court and off and his career is not over. I look forward to learning who will become the ‘Branch Rickey’ of today."

Some athletes and fans are coming out strong against Jason Collins. If you believe a player should be judged by his or her performance and NOT their sexual orientation, sign our statement of support NOW and we’ll deliver it to Jason and the NBA: http://athleteally.org/page/s/stand-with-jason-collins

About Athlete Ally

Athlete Ally is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally calls on the athletic community to use its status and influence to help stop anti-gay bullying by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion in sports.

Athlete Ally has set a foundation and  become the backbone for how athletes,coaches, and anyone who is involved with athletics can make a positive impact in our society.

Luckily, today's generation seems to be in a place that is more accepting and understanding than in years past, but there is still a battle to fight. As a collegiate coach and former collegiate athlete, I have witnessed homophobia both on and off the field of competition. Athletes and coaches have often been guilty of using the words "fag" or "fairy" in an extremely derogatory context. These terms are used naively, without any understanding or thought as to how they may be offensive and hurtful to an individual.

Having two siblings who are homosexual and a best friend and former college roommate who is also gay, I have become more aware of the language that we use in our daily lives. I cringe every time I hear the phrase "That's so gay" or "You're a fag." As an athlete on a sports team, it's difficult to stand up to teammates and colleagues; but it's not impossible. Many athletes feel pressured to fit in and go along with group mentality at times, even if it means saying or doing something they don't truly feel comfortable with. It takes a special person to be able to stand up to peers when something is being said or done that they don't agree with.

As a coach, I have a job to not only prepare our players for games, but to guide them as they mature and become adults. Creating a safe environment, one that does not tolerate prejudice or homophobic behavior, is a key ingredient to upholding this mission. I have found that an effective way to create such an environment is by setting clear expectations around the language that the team uses. When it is known that a coach will not tolerate homophobic phrases, players are much less likely to use them! The trick, however, is to get more coaches on board with this mission.

With more and more professional athletes coming out, there's no doubt in my mind that there will be a growing trend in collegiate sports with athletes coming out. We need to uphold our end as coaches and establish a culture amongst our teams that found itself on the basis of accepting everyone as they are.

The YBMLC, a nonprofit sports education organization founded on the campus of Montclair State (NJ) University in 1998, was inspired by the life and career of the legendary Yogi Berra, the winningest player in baseball history and one of America's most beloved sports figures.  Its exhibits and year-round character education programs pay tribute to the honorable values by which Mr. Berra has always lived.

When asked about the significance of YBMLC's partnership with Athlete Ally, Yogi Berra said: "Respect the game, respect others - that's what I always learned in sports." Mr. Berra, whose playing career (1946-63) with the Yankees included 10 world championships and three MVP Awards, also added: "Whatever background or whatever you are, it doesn's matter. Treat everyone the same, that's how it should be."

Athlete Ally is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally works with professional, college and high school sports figures to use their influence to help stop anti-gay bullying and discrimination by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion.

Consistent with its history of culturally diverse programs, the YBMLC, in partnership with Athlete Ally, will unveil a new exhibit in mid-June 2013 entitled "Championing Respect." The 800-square foot exhibit will examine the evolution of societal attitudes around inclusion and acceptance in sports, from Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in baseball in 1947 to the courageous strides made by women in the sports world, up to the current social movement to end homophobia in sports.  The exhibit will focus on the critical role played by athlete allies in accepting and respecting all people, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation.

"We are delighted to partner with Athlete Ally and commend their impressive work in empowering allies and helping change the sports culture for the better," said Dave Kaplan, director of the YBMLC." Collaborating on these programs, and developing Championing Respect, will serve to educate more people and provide insight into how individuals and movements can change existing prejudices within athletics."

Under the leadership of Founder and Executive Director Hudson Taylor, Athlete Ally will design a series of sustainable programs for the YBMLC, providing ways for coaches, parents and young athletes to prevent homophobia, ensuring that every athlete feels welcome and respected on and off the playing field.

Taylor said: "The YBMLC is an institutional pillar of American sportsmanship and character and the ideal platform to discuss and explore respect in sports." Taylor added: "With both a pioneering exhibit and innovative programming, this partnership will offer the sports community meaningful education and resources for learning about and empowering LGBT allyship in sports. We’re honored to be collaborating with YBMLC and so grateful for their leadership on this issue."

Rogers said of his commitment to Athlete Ally: "As I continue to tell my story and appreciate its impact, I want to work with Athlete Ally and its team of professional and college athletes, coaches and administrators to ensure that all LGBT people –- whether closeted or out –- feel respected and empowered in sports. It's important to me that my insight and experiences are put to good use and it's a pleasure to work with Athlete Ally toward that end."

Athlete Ally Executive Director Hudson Taylor added: "As a member of our advisory board, Robbie will utterly amplify the voices of LGBT athletes everywhere. We look forward to learning from his experience and insight as we continue working with professional leagues and college institutions in the battle to end homophobia in sports."

Just this week Athlete Ally announced that 12 players from Minnesota United FC have joined our ambassador program, along with several of their coaches.  Soccer continues to lead on the issue of LGBT inclusion in sports, whether by joining programs like Athlete Ally, producing compelling PSA's or enforcing strict penalties for homophobic conduct on the field.

Brian Ellner who led the campaign for New York marriage equality and serves on the Athlete Ally Board of Directors added: "As we rapidly mobilize straight ally support in college and professional sports, Athlete Ally also works to empower and highlight LGBT voices and experiences. We couldn’t ask for a better voice and guide in that effort than Robbie and it’s a real honor to be working with him."

As an advisory board member of Athlete Ally, Rogers joins chairman Brendon Ayanbadejo, author and former National Football League player David Kopay, author and former Major League Baseball player Billy Bean, CNN commentator and ESPN columnist LZ Granderson, NFL Network commentator Mark Kriegel, Executive Vice President, Social Responsibility & Player Programs for the National Basketball Association Kathy Behrens, The Tennis Channel sportscaster Brett Haber, manager of the Minnesota United Football Club Nick Rogers, Cornell University professor Beth Livingston, international Greco-Roman wrestler Akil Patterson and The Jim Rome Show's Erin Sharoni.

About Athlete Ally
Athlete Ally is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally calls on the athletic community to use its status and influence to help stop anti-gay bullying by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion in sports.

To contact Athlete Ally:
hudson@athleteally.org

Also connect with Athlete Ally on Twitter: www.twitter.com/athleteally, Facebook: www.facebook.com/athleteally, YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/AthleteAlly or by visiting http://www.athleteally.org

Athletes Miguel Ibarra, Kevin Friedland, Connor Tobin, Brian Kallman, Pablo Campos, Travis Wall, Justin Davis, Kentaro Takada, Max Griffin, Etienne Barbara, Simone Bracalello and team captain Kyle Altman have all signed on as Athlete Ally Ambassadors. In addition, head coach Manny Lagos, longtime pro and former member of the United States Men's National Team, and assistant coach Carl Craig have joined.

All these men bring exceptional resumes to the table, and many have played around the world for their respective universities and nations. Etienne Barbara was in fact the MVP of the North American Soccer League in 2011 and Pablo Campos won the same honor in 2012. Kyle Altman was the 2012 NASL Best XI honoree.

Athlete Ally Advisory board member Nick Rogers is the president of the club, and is an incredible advocate for respect and inclusion in the North American Soccer League.

"We are developing our advisory board to engage even more diverse voices in the conversation about LGBT inclusion in sports," says Hudson Taylor, Executive Director of Athlete Ally. "Nick activating 12 of his players in less than a week of joining the advisory board is incredibly impressive. All of these young men have fans of their own, are world-class athletes, and are catalysts for progress among the international soccer community."

Rogers said that he knew many of his players would gladly join the Athlete Ally cause. "These guys are the type of athletes that work incredibly hard, and inspire younger players across the country. Now they'll do their best to inspire these same soccer fans to treat LGBT athletes with the respect they deserve."

As Athlete Ally Ambassadors, the Minnesota United players join NBA star Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Minnesota Vikings), Scott Fujita (Cleveland Browns), Connor Barwin (Philadelphia Eagles), NFL free agent Donte Stallworth, UFC fighter Rashad Evans, WNBA player Kristi Toliver (Los Angeles Sparks) MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, Dan Grunfeld (Israeli Basketball), and four Australians in rugby stars David Pocock and James Hilterbrand, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, and World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell along with scores of college athletes who have already signed on. They will act as liaisons between the organization and their teams, help promote Athlete Ally's mission to end homophobia in sports by speaking out to their league and fan base, and encouraging their colleagues to join in the effort.

Being a gay athlete in a small Ohio city was the biggest balancing act in my life. I wanted to be true to who I was, but at the same time, I knew that being gay AND an athlete was never an option for me. My biggest fear wasn't people judging me or losing friends, it was that my sexuality would be a distraction that would hurt the team. My biggest fear was proved true when the topic of LGBTQ rights got brought up at practice one day. Most of my teammates felt uncomfortable with the subject, some voiced their support, and even more voiced their disapproval. However, one reaction stays with me to this day.

One of my teammates said, "I'd be okay with gay people if we put them on their own island away from everyone else." From that moment on, I knew that I would never be able to come out to my soccer team. His comment made me feel like an outsider, almost as if he had stranded me on that island by myself. By being a student ambassador for Athlete Ally, my goal is to change the perception of LGBTQ athletes. We’re the same people, with the same love for the game that everyone else has. I hope that one day LGBTQ athletes won’t have to worry about being a distraction to their team and can feel completely safe being themselves while playing the sport they love.

Sports teams at Ithaca College are generally accepting of LGBTQ athletes. We've been consistently ranked in the top 10 colleges by many different websites for LGBTQ inclusiveness and have been an example for our policies that work with our transgender students. It is therefore pretty natural that our sport teams follow in this manner. To my knowledge, there is even a LGBTQ athlete that holds a captain position of their sports team and many more participate as active members of their team. However, there is still much to be done. There are still athletes that find the need to hide their sexuality from their teammates in fear of being looked down upon. Some incoming freshman don’t join sports because they are afraid of how their teammates would handle a LGBTQ teammate, and being honest, coming into college is a nerve-wracking experience enough without having deal with that kind of extra pressure.

As a student ambassador for Athlete Ally, I'll be working to make sure that all students feel comfortable on their sport teams regardless of their sexuality. Ithaca College has been a leader in LGBTQ rights on their campus and there is no doubt in my mind that with a little work, we can make this next step as well.

Since the day I could walk I laced up my skates and played hockey. Athletics have been an extremely huge part of my life and will continue to as I grow older. It has already been a tremendous accomplishment that women were able to gain acceptance throughout America to join college athletics. Sports build people's character and personalities and essentially mold them into who they are. It brings out a side that many people do not have. The drive, the dedication, the competitiveness, the perseverance; you can’t teach those things, they truly come naturally. No matter who your teammate is, they have the same passion and desire as you do. That is why I am proud to become a member of Athlete Ally.

I believe Athlete Ally is an extremely important organization to gain equality throughout sports. I have had numerous teammates, or know of people, who have been abused by other teammates, coaches, or players on opposing teams for who they are or their sexual orientation. The spread of equality needs to begin now, and quickly. Their sexual preference does not change who they are, and most certainly does not take away from their athletic abilities. All individuals should be treated the same, and we as student athletes should take pride and stand up for what we believe in. Every athlete deserves the same treatment as the teammate next to him or her, and the ignorance of others needs to come to an end. Homophobia is an excuse to abuse people, or to treat them differently.

As a women's ice hockey player, I pledge to stop all intolerance to the LGBT community, and strive to respect all of my teammates as well as opposing players regardless of sexual orientation. As an ambassador for my community, I will do my best to spread this message to all athletes on campus.

Minnesota Vikings punter and Athlete Ally Ambassador Chris Kluwe spoke at the event, and Anderson took the opportunity to query the NFL superstar about how he can encourage his teammates to be the best Athlete Allies possible. Kluwe's response centered on having the tough conversations, and being open and honest when discussing LGBT issues with fellow athletes.

For Anderson, the decision to come out was certainly difficult, but he recently found a way to come out on his own terms.

"Keeping a major part of myself a secret just made me feel like I was living a lie, and I had to keep compounding lies just to hide who I really was. All of this just became too much up to the point where i wouldn't even talk to my parents or became extremely secretive when I was around people that I didn't want to find out," he said. "I had to struggle with how i saw myself and find out who i really was on the inside. but with the support from my boyfriend I was able to come out in a way that was casual and easy."

Anderson is now an Athlete Ally Ambassador at OSU, and will do his best to create a safe athletic space for the LGBT community on campus.

I have been involved in competitive athletics throughout the course of my life. I got involved in rowing when I was a freshman in High school and have continued my athletic career during my education at Rutgers University. I, like many others, cherish every aspect of sport. I love training every day. I love the camaraderie that comes from training with a dedicated group. But above all, I love competition. No matter what sport you play or where you go, love for competition is the one commonality. This love for competition is what unites us as athletes. Competition is so special because it is the great equalizer. Undoubtedly, every team is different. Each squad has its own technique, team dynamic, training regiment, along with many other details, but none of this matters on game day. On game day, once the teams are squared away, both teams are on an even playing field; no one is given an advantage, everyone is considered equal. This is what we as athletes love, being lined up as equals, given the chance to demonstrate our athletic ability.

I strongly believe that just as all teams are treated as equals on game day, all athletes should be treated equally day in and day out. There should be no distinctions made based on unique features of one's person, especially sexual orientation. Accepting others will go a long way toward advancing equality in athletics. Unfortunately, accepting others is not enough.

We, as athletes, need to start standing up against the intolerance of others. As Athlete Allies, we need to speak out against acts of homophobia committed by others. We can no longer allow the outspoken ignorance of others to shape athletic culture in America. For too long, athletes of the LGBT community have been forced into silence by the intolerance of others. It is time that as athletes we stand up against these injustices and promote equality in athletics

As an Athlete Ally, I pledge to respect all other athletes, regardless of their sexual orientation and strive to ensure that all athletes are respected on and off the field.

About the Athlete Ally Campus Ambassador Program

Athlete Ally Campus Ambassadors are a volunteer network of athletes, coaches and administrators who work to uphold the principles of respect and inclusion in their athletic communities.  The Athlete Ally Ambassador Program is a volunteer-based initiative, helping college students across the country and the world connect with their campuses to spread Athlete Ally’s message of inclusion in sports. Ambassadors are asked to present to athletic directors, student leaders, coaches, teams, and student-run groups about the organization and encourage their peers to sign the Athlete Ally Pledge and stand up as allies through a range of campus programs. Ambassadors work directly with Athlete Ally to brainstorm programs and events that shed light on the mission. Our most active programs include:

• Brown University
• Cornell University
• Duke University
• Fresno State
• Ithaca College
• Kent State
• Luther College
• Marist College
• Mercyhurst University
• Montclair State University
• Ohio State University
• Princeton University
• Rutgers University
• The College of William and Mary
• University of California, Los Angeles
• University of Colorado, Boulder
• Virginia Commonwealth University
• Whittier College
• Whitman College

Several  LGBT rights organizations will be on hand to discuss techinques for standing up to homphobia, and building an inclusive space for gay athletes. Ben Cohen, from the StandUp Foundation, Brian Kitts from You Can Play, and Athlete Ally Advisory Board member and baseball legend Billy Bean, along with several other industry voices, will be on hand to lead the discussion.

Kirk Walker, a longtime LGBT rights activist and Assistant UCLA Softball Coach says of the school's effort, "It is my goal for UCLA and the Athletic department to become a leader among BCS level athletic departments in the fight for equality on LGBT issues just as UCLA was a leader for racial equality back in the 60s."

Walker went on to say that he thinks the climate is netural for UCLA student athletes, but there's also room for improvement, and not just in college athletics. "In addition, the hope is to create an LGBT Student Athlete group, like GO! Athletes, that can combine with the UCLA Athlete Allies group to work together for education in the local high schools, and middle schools against bullying and homophobia in sports," he said. 

Stallworth is a world-class wide receiver and has played for several NFL teams. Recently, he was involved in a harrowing hot air balloon accident in which both he and his girlfriend were nearly killed. The event triggered a desire to do his part to make the world a better, safer place and that includes for LGBT individuals in sports. "I realize that every day is a gift and you need to do the most with the time that you have," said Stallworth. "Joining my friend Brendon Ayanbadejo and the other NFL Ambassadors today is my way of helping make our game better. We need to build a support system in the NFL so that every player can be who they are, play their best, and live life to the fullest."

Rashad Evans is one of the top light heavyweights in the world. Though not many of his peers speak out against homophobia in sports, Evans sees the work of Athlete Ally Ambassadors as a huge step forward, and wants to make an impact in the UFC. "What Brendon Ayanbadejo and other Athlete Allies are doing is incredible and it’s important for everyone to realize that homophobia isn't just a problem in the NFL. It's an issue in all sports," he says. “We are making some positive strides in the UFC, but more work needs to be done.  Our sport, especially, has a young audience and I want kids to know that they will grow up and live in a more tolerant and accepting culture."

"Rashad Evans and Donte Stallworth are joining the Athlete Ally movement at a critical time and we are grateful to them for becoming active in the fight against homophobia in sports. In essence, they are being the change that they want see," says Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally Hudson Taylor.

Taylor went on to laud the efforts of the Athlete Ally Advisory Board chairman Brendon Ayanbadejo, saying, "These athletes are joining Athlete Ally today directly because of the efforts of Brendon Ayanabadejo. As the chairman of our advisory board, Brendon is showing the leadership skills of a grassroots organizer and the heart of a true advocate. He and other Athlete Allies like Scott Fujita, Chris Kluwe, David Pocock, Kristi Toliver and our other ambassadors are committing time and energy to spreading this movement to their teammates and peers."

"These men continue to inspire Athlete Ally Ambassadors in universities and colleges across the nation as well," says Luther College Athlete Ally Ambassador Matthew Yan. "By joining Athlete Ally, Donte and Rashad are putting themselves on the right side of history and showing people everywhere that it is okay to be in a masculine, aggressive sport and still be against homophobic and transphobic language."

It hasn’t always been this way.

Walking on to the deck of this year’s Atlantic Coast Conference Swimming Championships, I take a few moments to greet the coaches, swimmers, and officials on my way to the Broadcaster’s Table. It’s been ten years since I walked these decks as a swimmer for the University of North Carolina. Now, I am a full-time coach of swimming and rowing in Greenwich, CT. I am also fortunate to be a Color Commentator on the Swimming & Diving Championships for the ACC, for which I am in Greensboro this week. Some of the coaches that I chat with are former competitors of mine. Many are former coaches and mentors from when I grew up through the ranks of Age Group. These faces that once met me with distant stares now engage me with smiles and friendly greetings.

I was a closeted swimmer who had his career cut short by injury. Well, that is the way I tell it. In reality, a slight spontaneous pneumothorax (or partial lung collapse, from which I could have returned to the pool) my sophomore year was the excuse that I used to distance myself from the hyper-masculine world of collegiate athletics. Having grown up in a small town in rural North Carolina, I was accustomed to working my way to the top of my sport unnoticed. The background was a place I knew well, and I had become accustomed to hiding.  Stepping into the Division I spotlight with the Tar Heels proved to be a challenging task to this closeted lifestyle.

Some of the upperclassmen did their best to welcome the shy butterflyer into the folds, but mostly they seemed too afraid to engage with someone who was “different”. The coach, though gentle and true in his demeanor, was often too focused on the more talented swimmers than those of us on the periphery. In the pool, in the locker rooms, and at the dining halls, I attempted to avoid attention for fear of being found out, but I quietly deeply craved the affirmation and acceptance of my teammates and coaches. We didn’t really have any allies then, and the country was just becoming familiar with the issue of gay rights. But it didn’t come in time for me. After struggling to fit in, I hung up my cap and goggles (after my injury) to retreat to a safer world as a “normal” student. Here, I would have a less chance of being exposed as gay.

Over the course of my 20s, I wrestled with what it meant to be gay and still be an athlete. Though I was no longer a varsity athlete, I still loved sport and had a passion for fitness. This led me to work as a swim coach on the high school and college levels, teach undergraduate courses on sport sociology, and eventually find my way back to the world of elite athletics. All the while, I was having conversations with people as a closeted gay man about masculinity, diversity, and acceptance. I met enemies and allies, experienced victory and defeat, but all the time I was fighting for the peace to become myself.

Finally, a few conversations with straight allies in graduate school were what it took to allow me the comfortable environment to discuss my sexuality in a positive manner.  Just before my 29th birthday, I came out to my parents, extended family, and friends. As I came out, some friendships died while others strengthened. But as others around me came to know the true Warren, they came to respect and appreciate me for everything I was and had to offer. This included a skill and passion for coaching sports.

I am very grateful for those family and friends who accept me for a part of being myself. Of course, not everyone is supportive at first; some still struggle with my “lifestyle” choices. Coaching young athletes still has some parents on edge, especially when confusion from the Sandusky case reinforces stereotypes in peoples’ minds. But as I continue to live out of my true identity, and athletes, coaches, and parents interact with me as a true man, change occurs. Allies play a major role in endorsing the truth about people like me. My colleagues in Greenwich are extremely supportive, and a new generation of athletes and coaches are affirming not only our existence but our contributions to sport. As all of the stereotypes for being gay in athletics are challenged, division is bridged and acceptance offered.

The sports world I had once fled was now a place of safety to be embraced. I was once afraid to engage those faces on the pool deck because I did not sense the support of teammates and administration. But now, ten years later, I am working side by side with coaches and swimmers I once feared. As an openly gay coach, I am helping raise up a generation that sees a confident coach, compassionate leader, and a man secure in his identity. As a mentor, teacher, and friend, I am able to help others navigate the often rough waters of homophobic sports. The athletic world is becoming more inclusive of the gay community, and I am excited to have come out from a state of fear in to an era of love and acceptance.

So every time I broadcast college swimming, coach the novice rower, or teach the next 5-year old how to swim freestyle, I smile and think, “It’s not always been this way.” The ACC and my aquatics club are just two reputable institutions that foster truth, honor, and respect. It is with great joy that I file in the ranks of fellow sports leaders who proudly excel in their jobs, becoming known not only for who they love but how they love their sport.
And some of us just happen to be gay.

"I pledge to lead my athletic community to respect and welcome all persons, regardless of their perceived or actual sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Beginning right now, I will do my part to promote the best of athletics by making all players feel respected on and off the field."

Athlete Ally Ambassador and former Rutgers student Nick Angelides comments: "I met with Rutgers Athletics Director Tim Pernetti, and he signed the Athlete Ally Pledge, but  his failure to take action against Mike Rice is embarrassing, alienating, and entirely unjustifiable."

Athlete Ally Founder and Executive Director, Hudson Taylor, also commented on Rice's behavior: "Mike Rice puts homophobia in context, showing us what is at stake and how homophobic slurs and other forms of prejudice can manifest in real time. His behavior is a powerful and unfortunate reminder of what abuse and disrespect in sports can look like. His comments were homophobic, sexist and cruel. And, he used them often in moments of violence, showing just how abusive and dangerous that kind of language can be. We commend Rutgers for taking action and look forward to continuing to work with them to support allyship on campus."

About Athlete Ally

Athlete Ally is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally calls on the athletic community to use its status and influence to help stop anti-gay bullying by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion in sports.

To contact Athlete Ally:

hudson@athleteally.org.

609-712-4306

Also connect with Athlete Ally on Twitter: www.twitter.com/athleteally, Facebook: www.facebook.com/athleteally, YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/AthleteAlly or by visiting http://www.athleteally.org.

Toliver averaged a stellar 17.4 points per game in the 2011-2012 WNBA season, led her team in assists per game, and leads the league in free throw percentage.

"Being an athlete, and having the opportunity to teach a younger generation of people to treat everyone with respect and dignity, that's pretty important," says Toliver. "The LGBT community deserves the support of the athletic community, and I believe in the message Athlete Ally is putting out there."

"As our first professional female Athlete Ally Ambassador in the U.S., and as a woman that also plays basketball internationally, Kristi is a critical voice that means a lot for our program," says Hudson Taylor, Executive Director of Athlete Ally. "Joining Alex Blackwell, champion cricketer from Australia, Kristi is leading the way for more female athletes to show their support for the LGBT community as we’ve seen men like Kenneth Faried and Brendon Ayanbadejo do."

Athlete Ally Ambassador Christie Cicero, a women's ice hockey player for Mercyhurst University said, "It is inspiriting and encouraging seeing a female professional athlete join Athlete Ally. It demonstrates this issue isn’t divided by gender to say the least. It would be heartening to see more women join this cause."

"I am so happy to welcome Kristi Toliver's voice to the growing numbers of male athletes and coaches speaking out for LGBT inclusion in sports.  I hope she will be the first of many more women athletes and coaches standing up for respect in women's and men's sports," added Pat Griffin, author of Strong Women, Deep Closets: Lesbians and Homophobia in Sports and co-author with Hudson Taylor of the groundbreaking NCAA handbook on LGBT issues.

As an Athlete Ally Ambassador, Toliver joins NBA star Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Minnesota Vikings), Scott Fujita (Cleveland Browns), Connor Barwin (Houston Texans), MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, Dan Grunfeld (Israeli Basketball), and four Australians in rugby stars David Pocock and James Hilterbrand, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, and World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell along with scores of college athletes who have already signed on. Toliver will act as a liaison between the organization and the her team, help promote Athlete Ally's mission to end homophobia in sports by speaking out to her team, league and fan base, and encouraging her colleagues to join in the effort.

I am excited to announce that the Arcus Foundation has awarded Athlete Ally a $100,000 grant to support our efforts to end homophobia in sports. The Arcus grant is being offered as a partial match and we need your help now to maximize this incredible opportunity. 

With dozens of professional athletes and scores of college athletes signed on as Athlete Allies, a new NCAA policy guide on LGBT equality and major strides in the NBA and NFL, Athlete Ally is fundamentally changing sports culture.

Starting today, $50,000 of the $100,000 grant is contingent on Athlete Ally raising matching funds from supporters like you.  Please contribute now and do your part to build the Athlete Ally movement.

We need your help to meet this matching challenge, spread the Athlete Ally message of inclusiveness and put an end to homophobia in sports.

Please click here now and help us meet the match and amplify our work to end homophobia in sports.

Together,

Hudson Taylor

Brendon Ayanbadejo, the chairman of Athlete Ally's Advisory Board said in response: "People often have concerns when looking ahead to uncharted territory. Yet in this situation, I see opportunity when that first player comes out. I see the chance for all of his teammates to stand by his side and say 'We support you.' And then the team will be bigger than any one individual. It is a chance to build unity."

Hudson Taylor, Athlete Ally Founder Executive Director stated:  "I know there may be players who share Clemons' sentiment but asking a player to remain closeted is the only selfish act in this situation. No one should ever have to hide who they are. It is time for all of us to commit to making sports a better place. We need to stand by the lessons of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Let’s learn from the experiences of Jackie Robinson and be on the better side of history."

Brian Ellner, an Athlete Ally Board Member and leading marriage equality advocate said:  "No one - professional athlete or otherwise - should be encouraged to live a lie and remain in the closet.  It's a hurtful comment that has no place in sports. It's the opposite of what one would expect from a teammate."

About Athlete Ally
Athlete Ally is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally calls on the athletic community to use its status and influence to help stop anti-gay bullying by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion in sports.

Athlete Ally currently engages scores of college athletes as well as over a dozen professional athletes including: the NFL’s Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Minnesota Vikings), Scott Fujita (Cleveland Browns), and Connor Barwin (Houston Texans), MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, NBA standout Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), basketball player Dan Grunfeld, and four Australians in rugby star David Pocock, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell, and rugby standout James Hilterbrand.

To contact Athlete Ally: 
hudson@athleteally.org

Also connect with Athlete Ally on

Twitter: www.twitter.com/athleteally 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/athleteally 

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/AthleteAlly

According a report by CBSSports' Mike Freeman, a closeted NFL player is strongly considering coming out but is predominantly concerned about fan reaction. Founded on the belief that straight allyship creates a more welcoming sports environment, Athlete Ally is encouraging fans and athletes around the world to show their support for all gay athletes by signing the Athlete Ally pledge and sharing the hashtag #FB4ALL.

"The Athlete Ally movement is already 11,000 strong. We want to let this NFL player - or any closeted gay player - know that you have back up. Your community, whether it is your teammates or your fan base is here to support you," said Hudson Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally.

"The last thing we want to do is pressure someone into coming out or send a message that coming out is in some way better or more courageous than not," said Scott Fujita, Athlete Ally ambassador and 11 year NFL veteran.  "Everyone is different and has his or her own way of living life. At the same time, encouraging fans to stand up for inclusion in sports is fundamental to Athlete Ally's mission and inextricably bound to moments like this."

Super Bowl Champion Brendon Ayanbadejo, who was named the Chairman of the Athlete Ally Advisory Board today, emphasized his enthusiasm for the cause saying: "This isn't about one player, it's about all of us.  It's about being a good teammate and a loyal fan. It's about respect and everything the NFL stands for."

Joining Ayanbadejo on the Advisory Board is former NFL player and LGBT athletic trailblazer David Kopay. After he retired from the NFL, Kopay became the first professional team sport player to publicly come out in 1975 and he’s been an inspiration to countless LGBT athletes since. "When I began this fight, it sometimes felt like things would never improve for gay athletes. But now, with organizations like Athlete Ally, the tide is changing rapidly. I know much of what this player is going through and want to help in anyway I can."

The Advisory Board, which will cultivate and build the movement across sports by overseeing Athlete Ally policies and programs consists of an impressive array of straight and gay leaders from the world of sports, media, and academics. The other members are: former Major League Baseball player Billy Bean, CNN commentator and ESPN columnist LZ Granderson, Assistant Professor of Human Resource Studies at Cornell University Beth A. Livingston, NFL Network commentator Mark Kriegel, The Tennis Channel sportscaster Brett Haber, manager of the Minnesota United Football Club Nick Rogers, and The Jim Rome Show’s Erin Sharoni.

About Athlete Ally
Athlete Ally is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging athletes, coaches, parents, fans and other members of the sports community to respect all individuals involved in sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual-orientation or gender identity or expression. Athlete Ally calls on the athletic community to use its status and influence to help stop anti-gay bullying by championing respect, camaraderie and inclusion in sports.

Athlete Ally currently engages scores of college athletes as well as over a dozen professional athletes including: the NFL's Brendon Ayanbadejo (Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens,) Chris Kluwe (Minnesota Vikings), Scott Fujita (Cleveland Browns), and Connor Barwin (Houston Texans), MLS stars Omar Gonzalez, A.J. DeLaGarza, Stephen McCarthy and Chris Seitz, NBA standout Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets), basketball player Dan Grunfeld, and four Australians in rugby star David Pocock, Australian Rules Football player Brock McLean, World-Champion cricketer Alex Blackwell, and rugby standout James Hilterbrand.

To contact Athlete Ally: 
hudson@athleteally.org
347.699.2632

Also connect with Athlete Ally on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.

Want to embed the Athlete Ally pledge on your website? Use the following code:
<iframe src="http://www.athleteally.org/content/pledge" width="495" height="497" frameborder="0"></iframe>