Celebrating Courage: Jake Bain's Journey as an Openly Gay College Football Player

*Originally published in 2018, this feature was part our Celebrating Courage series.*

Jake Bain: Blazing a Trail in College Football For Jake Bain, stepping onto Indiana State University's campus as an openly gay freshman was more than just about playing football—it was about breaking barriers and finding acceptance. The support he felt from his teammates was not only transformative; it began even before he set foot on a practice field. "There are moments when we're just hanging out in our dorms playing video games, and I'll get a FaceTime call from Hunter. I don't feel awkward about it," Bain said. "Everyone already knows us. Many freshmen I've met know Hunter and who he means in my life." Hunter Sigmund, Bain's boyfriend and a swimmer at North Carolina, has been embraced by Bain's football teammates just like any other partner would be. "When Hunter came down here, I introduced him around," Bain recalled. "The guys treated him just like anyone else's girlfriend, being totally nice and respectful."

No Ordinary Freshman In lots ways, Jake Bain fits right in as a freshman football player—learning new positions, sweating through tough workouts, and getting used a new group dynamics. But his achievements set him apart. Honored as a hometown hero on Pride Night by St. Louis Blues, going prom with his boyfriend, and being recognized by his school's board make him quite unique among his peers. "The president from board reached out," Bain remembered with a smile. "He welcomed me and said they are thrilled have me as a Sycamore, offering help if needed. I couldn't ask better support." Preparing face Quincy in his college season opener, Bain looks back on his path. Moving from high school, where he was both athlete and openly gay, adjusting a college that normalizes acceptance has been profound. His decision open up in December, in a major interview, resonates with countless LGBTQ athletes, encouraging them live genuinely. Despite this spotlight, Bain remains grounded. "Some call me an activist, but I'm just living my truth," he said. "I want shine light on LGBTQ community. There are many who can't yet live openly."

The Power Coaching Support One reason Bain was drawn Indiana State was Coach Curt Mallory's supportive atmosphere. During recruitment, Bain didn't shy from sharing about his sexuality, and Coach Mallory didn't just accept it—he embraced it. "Coach Mallory assured me my being gay was a non-issue," Bain stated confidently. "His welcoming attitude really shaped team culture." Bain's story flips stereotypes about football's stance on LGBTQ athletes. "Football's all about brotherhood," he said. "People think it's hyper-masculine, but my teammates have shown me how times are changing."

Grabbing New Opportunities This season, Bain's tackling a new role—defensive back, plus taking on returner duties. His speed and skills make him a key player. "I'm nervous but excited," Bain admitted. "My focus right now's mastering this new position." The encouraging words and unwavering support from his teammates have boosted his confidence. "Teammates have come up, offering their support after hearing my story," Bain said. "It really means a lot."

Facing and Overcoming Challenges After dealing with bullying in high school, Bain finds college life much more welcoming. "People get there's no benefit from being nasty," he noted. "At this point, acceptance has mostly won." Despite distance, Bain and Sigmund are determined keep their relationship strong. "We're figuring how visit each other," Bain shared. "Hunter's been my rock, and I'm so grateful." Bain's journey provides a beacon other athletes thinking about coming out. "Being open about my sexuality before college made everything smoother," he reflected. "I'm just glad I chose be true myself."