Quinn Returns to Canadian Soccer Amidst Rising Concerns of Anti-Trans Sentiment

In a bold move reflecting both professional aspirations and personal convictions, renowned soccer player Quinn has returned to Canada to join Vancouver Rise FC. The decision comes amidst growing concerns over the increase in anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, particularly in the U.S., which weighed heavily on Quinn's mind.

During a media event on Friday, the 29-year-old Canadian international midfielder was officially introduced as part of Vancouver Rise FC, ahead of the inaugural Northern Super League (NSL) season. Quinn's signing is seen as a significant boost for the Rise, one of the six teams in this new league.

Quinn, who publicly came out as nonbinary and transgender in September 2020 while playing for Seattle Reign FC in the NWSL, has been a trailblazer for transgender athletes in professional sports. They made history nearly a year after coming out by becoming the first openly nonbinary trans athlete to compete in the Olympics, where they achieved a gold medal victory with their Canadian teammates in Tokyo.

In 2023, Quinn further cemented their legacy by participating in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking another milestone for LGBTQ representation in sports. Despite their achievements, last season did not meet their expectations, and Quinn parted ways with the Reign after their contract expired.

An Important Decision Influenced by Political Climate

During a conversation with CBC reporter Shireen Ahmed, Quinn addressed whether the political climate in the U.S., particularly the rise in homophobia and transphobia, influenced their decision to return to Canada. "I’d be lying if I said I didn’t think about it," Quinn admitted. "That definitely crossed my mind and played an aspect and understanding about what’s happening in the U.S.”

Data from the FBI corroborates these concerns, showing a continual rise in reports of anti-LGBTQ hate crimes in the U.S. This troubling trend parallels similar sentiments reportedly growing in Canada, especially as a federal election approaches.

Quinn emphasized that while they cherished their advocacy work in the U.S., it’s crucial to address similar ideologies in their home country. "Although I’ve really appreciated my time in the U.S. to be able to do advocacy work there, I also think that it would be ignorant for me to say that that line of thought and ideology isn’t also present in Canada," Quinn noted.

Advocacy and Mentorship

Returning to Canada presents an opportunity for Quinn to harness resources and advocacy efforts to promote inclusivity in Canadian sports. They believe that the atmosphere for Canadian sports should remain inclusive, and that it’s essential to prevent the U.S.'s current situation from becoming a Canadian reality.

Quinn has been instrumental in initiatives aimed at fostering a welcoming soccer culture, notably through their "See Them, Be Them" mentorship program. This one-on-one virtual initiative, launched post-World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, is designed to support young gender-diverse soccer players.

In addition to their advocacy, Quinn is determined to play a pivotal role in the NSL. Vancouver’s sporting director, Stephanie Labbé, who shared the Olympic victory with Quinn, hailed their move to Vancouver as transformative. "Quinn is a trailblazer, someone who has forged their own path, and created history along the way,” she expressed.

Vancouver Rise’s head coach, Anja Heiner-Moller, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Quinn’s potential impact, both on fans and fellow players, thanks to their extensive experience in the NWSL and with the Canadian national team.

The Future with Vancouver Rise FC

Joining Vancouver Rise, Quinn reunites with Nikki Stanton, their former Reign midfield partner, who was recently confirmed as a signing for the Rise. Stanton, also openly LGBTQ, enhances the team’s diversity and experience.

Quinn’s return to Canada is not only a personal and professional milestone but also a statement of their commitment to using their platform to effect change. As Canada faces its own challenges with rising conservative sentiments and transphobia, Quinn’s presence in the Canadian soccer scene is poised to inspire and instigate positive change.

As the NSL season approaches, fans and advocates alike look forward to witnessing Quinn's contributions on and off the field, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment in Canadian sports.