Finding a new direction in college sports
Getting noticed by college football recruiters was an incredible rush—proof that all my sweat and determination were finally making a splash. Offers came my direction, either playing college football or wrestling, and I felt like I was on top. But alongside this excitement was a naggling worry: would they accept me as I really am?
Most recruiting experiences were a mix; I was always on edge, wondering if my sexuality would be a deal-breaker. I craved authentic connections but felt they were just out there somewhere until Coach Mike Cody from College Idaho walked in.
Creating meaningful relationships
Coach Cody was different. He reached out weekly, genuinely interested in knowing who I was beyond just stats on paper. One day, a handwritten note from their coaching staff hit home, showing they truly valued me as a person, not just my athletic skills.
Confronting fear and prejudice
Despite this promising rapport, fear was still looming. I was terrified at being judged in a place I yearned would be like home. On February 3, 2018, I took a leap and called Coach Cody, ready, real, and raw.
"I want in, but I'm unsure about football because I'm gay," I confessed. "I'm scared about being harassed."
His response was life-altering. "I'm glad you told me," Coach Cody reassured. "I've got close friends who are gay, and they're amazing. You'll be safe here. We don't tolerate discrimination on our team." Those words led me straight toward commitment, and I signed my scholarship papers without looking back.
Tackling new challenges head-on
Growing up in Olympia, Washington, sports were my everything, and my family was big on athletics. From a young age, I was in it, driven by my dad's encouragement.
High school was sports-crazy, with wrestling meets and football under those Friday night lights. Hard work paid off—I became a state champion wrestler and helped my team reach state football championships.
The switch from high school heroics was intimidating. Uprooting from my support network and diving headfirst was a big shift. Thankfully, Coach Cody's backing made all that difference during this period.
Finding my place in college life
Landing in Idaho, I was jittery about blending in. As fall camp kicked off, grueling workouts pushed my limits. Initially, drills overwhelmed me and doubts crept, even considering a redshirt year just so I'd have time.
Two weeks before our opening game, Nate Potter, our new offensive line coach, dropped a bombshell: "You're starting at right tackle." His faith caught me off guard, but it was like rocket fuel, and I welcomed that challenge.
My first game was nerve-wracking, full-on panic in parts. But as minutes ticked, my old fierce self came through. I realized I didn't have anything left hiding—I could actually shine here.
Coming out and building self-assurance
As games came and went, I grew in more ways than one. Not only as a player but in owning my identity. Bit by bit, I opened up about being gay; my teammates were unfailingly supportive. Some even reached out, offering support that mattered more than words could ever say.
Confidence soaring, I took my boyfriend along with me during Winterfest. And let me tell you, feeling embraced by peers and teammates was incredible.
We turned our rough start around, winning six games straight and landing a national ranking—a historic feat at College Idaho.
Gaining a fresh outlook on identity and sports
This rollercoaster taught me a powerful lesson: authenticity breeds success. Playing with a team and coaches who had my back let me be more open about myself with others.
It's vital LGBTQ+ athletes feel free being them while excelling at their game. Sport thrives on passion—not sexual orientation. I hope sharing my story pushes others toward chasing their dreams with confidence.
Balancing college football and academics, I'm set on driving change, encouraging others along their paths. Stand tall, be you, and never let fear win.
A conclusion: catalysts in change and acceptance
To every LGBTQ+ athlete: be unapologetically you, compete with that fierce self-assurance, and don't hold back from greatness. You hold power in sparking change and acceptance simply by playing your best game.
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