QUESTION

Have any of your teammates looked at you differently after coming out? What advice do you have in terms of the best way to do so? (Telling individuals or as a group)

Answer

I’ve been surrounded by a great group of teammates and staff. I actually came out to my team in an email. I’m quite a shy, introverted person so the thought of talking to a room overwhelmed me. Overall, I think I had a better relationship with my teammates after coming out. I had a new confidence and ability to be vulnerable with them and it strengthened many relationships in my life. There were some players on my professional team at the time who were ignorant, but having the overwhelming majority of players and staff support me really created an environment where anything less than that wouldn’t be tolerated. I’ve learned in this process that it’s okay if I end a few friendships, because in reality someone who can’t support me isn’t someone I need in my life.

Quinn
they/them

Quinn is a two-time Olympic medalist, a midfielder on the Canada Women's National Team and a multi-year starter for Seattle Reign FC