Robert Goman's journey in sports took a surprising turn when Nike, that iconic brand we all know, brought him on board—even though entering sports was nowhere in his plans. Funny enough, when he first joined, he didn't own a single pair from Nike.
As time went on, Goman became instrumental in blending Nike with LGBTQ sports culture through some truly innovative ideas. Now, he's leading as board chair at Sports Equality Foundation, pushing education and visibility in sports forward, and has even given a fresh start-up boost at LGBTQ Sports Hall Fame.
Discovering a passion sports inclusivity
Growing up in Salinas Valley, California, in mid-1980s, Robert Goman was a high schooler urged play basketball because he was tall. But, he found his stride in cross-country track, where he shone as runner. Back then, he wasn't out about his sexuality, but sports were his safe haven—a barrier against any harassment.
When he was 23, Goman came out his family, after an acquaintance outed him. It was tough at first, but his family embraced him, letting him fully be himself.
Building a career at Nike
Goman kicked off his career in retail design at Gap Inc. before landing at Nike in 1997. He started off designing those famous Niketown stores, pulling him back towards sports culture he'd left behind in high school. This reignited his love teamwork camaraderie sports foster.
At Nike, he crossed paths with sports legends like Jerry Rice and Steve Young. Nike was big on inclusivity, especially with female athletes, but it took some time before Goman saw how LGBTQ culture could mix with pro sports.
Leading LGBTQ initiatives at Nike
As his role grew, Goman took charge Nike's LGBTQ employee group and helped organize Portland Pride. A casual idea from a senior exec about designing a parade shoe sparked Goman's plan: rainbow Pride sneakers made with Nike's custom design tools. They became a hit, not just with Nike staff, but parade-goers, signaling a need more LGBTQ-themed sportswear.
This set stage #BETRUE line, skyrocketing success across country. A big milestone came in 2013 when Jason Collins came out, sported #BETRUE shirt at Boston Pride—boosting LGBTQ visibility in sports.
The #BETRUE campaign resonated because felt genuine, not like a glossy marketing stunt. Goman's efforts opened doors, making it easier athletes come out, changing not just Nike, but sports culture as a whole.
Legacy and future goals
After 23 years Nike, Goman moved on amid company shifts in 2020. He dove back interior design with his husband, Jeff, founding E. Rigby Studios. Their studio flourishes, fueling his creative passions.
In 2023, Goman re-entered corporate scene with Tailor Brands, while key contributor Sports Equality Foundation. As chairman, he's tirelessly advocating LGBTQ inclusion sports, ensuring legacy #BETRUE lives on.
Goman's achievements have carved lasting mark sports history, promoting inclusivity acceptance. He's proud his work and remains dedicated advancing LGBTQ visibility inclusion sports.
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