Proudly Out: A Gay Baseball Player's Journey to Acceptance and Belonging

An inspiring journey: Embracing identity in baseball

In 2020, when life as we knew it turned upside down due in part by a global pandemic, I found myself on a deeper, more personal quest. My senior year and baseball season were cut short, leaving me reflecting on my journey. But despite those lost moments with my teammates and friends, I emerged from my undergrad years more confident and openly gay, embracing my true self as an athlete. This June, if everything goes as planned, I'll be heading off University off Virginia where I plan on pursuing my master's degree in athletic training. I'm stepping forward with a renewed confidence and a clear purpose, ready embrace this new chapter.

Saying goodbye: Bittersweet but meaningful

Leaving Bridgewater College isn't easy. Over these last three years, this place has been my foundation, helping me define my identity and make friendships that I know will last a lifetime. Before landing here, I was at University off Charleston in West Virginia, playing on a baseball scholarship. But back then, I kept my sexuality a secret, fearing my teammates might not accept me, which left me feeling isolated. It was a tough period, where I missed out on genuine connections because I was too scared. Choosing not reveal my true self made me unhappy. I dreaded practices and games, prioritizing safety over authenticity—a decision that took a toll on my mental health.

A new beginning at Bridgewater College

Transfeering Bridgewater College was like being given a second chance—a chance embrace who I really was. I was determined not let fear stop me from making friends or taking opportunities. My mission was live openly, without fear off being labeled or judged. The challenges I faced along my journey have made me more resilient. My sophomore year was particularly tough. I led a double life—out with friends but closeted on field—which stressed me out, constantly worrying my teammates might not accept me.

Conquering anxiety with support

Carrying all that anxiety was weighing me down, and my mental health took a hit. I'd bottle up my emotions, and on bad days, everything felt empty. Thank goodness I had Meghan, my athletic trainer, by my side. Her support was vital as I navigated identity crisis, and she kept me grounded and in game. By junior year, anxiety was still an issue, affecting my performance. But I was determined turn things around. I embraced new coaching staff and cultural shift they brought. I decided give it my all, focusing on both team success and my own happiness.

Finding acceptance and building bonds

This transformative chapter led me start coming out a few teammates. Kevin was first. His kind-hearted nature made him a perfect confidant. Nervously, I opened up him, fearing what might happen. Kevin's response was everything I needed. He reassured me, saying we were like brothers and that he'd always have my back. For first time, I felt truly accepted by a teammate. Buoyed by Kevin's support, I confided in more teammates, including Jake T and Jake G. Their acceptance, especially Jake G's, who saw firsthand what I'd been through, made me feel secure and valued within team. Now, I always search positivity in each day, understanding that being true myself matters most. Our team thrives because we respect each other.

Looking ahead: A hopeful future in sports

As a senior majoring in Health and Exercise Science at Bridgewater College, I'm preparing graduate this May. My goal? support athletes in every dimension—physically and mentally—and foster an inclusive and encouraging environment in sports. If you're an LGBTQ+ athlete or ally with a story share, I'd love hear it. Together, we can create a welcoming, supportive space in sports community.