Gay activists praise rugby star Gareth Thomas's decision to come out

[muriel_volestrangler]

The shock decision by rugby union player Gareth Thomas to announce that he is gay has triggered speculation that other sports stars might come out. Thomas is Wales's most-capped player and a former British and Irish Lions captain. The fact that he has confirmed his sexuality while still playing the game has been praised by gay rights campaigners.

Yesterday the 6ft 3in, 16-stone rugby star said he hoped he could make a difference to others struggling with their sexuality. "I just want to thank everyone for the amazing response I have received, on behalf of me, my family and friends," Thomas said. "I hope that by saying this I can make a big difference to others in my situation."
...
Yesterday Thomas received the full backing of both the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) and Cardiff.

"He is most probably one of the most popular players among his peers," said Roger Lewis, WRU group chief executive. "While Gareth's private life is entirely irrelevant to his career as an international sportsman it would be remiss of the WRU not to remind him of the high esteem in which he is held in the game in Wales at a time when he has decided to bring such personal reflections to public notice."

Robert Norster, Cardiff Blues chief executive, said: "Gareth Thomas is a credit to Cardiff Blues who has truly brought honour to the jersey as a formidable player and a strong leader. His private life is his own concern and we will continue to acknowledge him for the qualities he brings to the squad as a player and an individual who exemplifies the values of commitment, determination and fair play we expect from our team."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/dec/19/gay-groups-applaud-gareth-thomas

Thought this might be interesting for the forum. While in the rest of Britain, rugby is not the most popular sport (but still popular - England matches always fill a 75,000 seat stadium), in Wales it is. And Thomas is a major player - at the end of his career now, but 'most-capped' means he's played more times for Wales than anyone else, ever. And being captain of not just Wales but the British and Irish Lions (the combined team for the 3 British nations and Ireland) means he was highly respected and liked - the captain has to inspire, lead and rally the team during the game (the team has no contact with the coach apart from at half time).

And in my final bit of translation, 16 stone is 224 pounds. :)

[Kerrytravelers]

1. What a touching piece. I particularly liked the section talking about his emotional torture.

He felt horrible betraying his now estranged wife, whom you can tell he admires and respects. I am glad to see that he is being supported by his team and sport. Thanks for the article!

[virgogal]

2. Good for him. I saw "Invictus" today and have learned more about

rugby than I ever planned on,especially the scrum.

I wish Gareth well.

[ruggerson]

3. he's a dead ringer for Jerry Brown

n/t