These players have become a beacon of light because they overcame stereotypes and other challenges faced by homosexual athletes way too often. Nigel Owens, one of the best referees in the world, is openly gay and has been vocal about how the rugby world has been hugely accommodating. Campbell Johnstone has been lauded for his public statements on his sexuality. Former prop Campbell Johnstone, who wore the black jersey in , came out publicly on TVNZ last night. Current and former players, coaches and commentators have backed Johnstone for going on the record.
While World Rugby is taking a firm stance on inclusion and diversity, there are many personalities who have been paving the way for this inspiring movement. 1. Nigel Owens. All fans, players, and anyone who knows anything about rugby will know the name, Nigel Owens. From dating app dopamine to locker room breakdowns, the messy overlap of rugby and mental health. Episode 16 of The Gay Rugby Podcast is less polished highlight reel and more raw post-match debrief. We ask the uncomfortable question: is this toxic behavior?
In this article, we’ll name ten of the most notable gay rugby personalities, analyze their accomplishments, discuss how they are shaping the game today, and assess their impact on the overall perception of homosexual professional athletes around the world. feature image credits via Getty Images from left to right. Rugby is such a cool and intense sport. The athleticism and strength it requires are striking.
Simon Dunn (27 July – 21 January ) was an Australian bobsledder and amateur rugby player. Raised in Wollongong, he was the first openly gay male to represent any country in the sport of bobsled, but then retired in by Anonymous student. Rugby, taken out of its sporting context, is about as homoerotic as a platonic activity can get. Yet somehow, the game where thirty muscular, mostly in-shape men hug each other has the reputation of being the pinnacle of masculinity.