QUESTION

Am I wrong for thinking I don’t deserve to be in sports because of my queer identity?

Answer

"Your feeling is totally valid. I think one of the things that make sports so great is the interconnectedness between you and your teammates. And what builds that up is having a common goal.

And on really great teams and in sports you are going to be viewed as your contribution to that goal. That starts with being the best version of yourself so you can use your own success and individuality at a reason to find that belonging. And understand your contribution is valuable, probably more so than you think. Sports really honor athletes with courage and resiliency, and playing sports as a queer athlete is a great representation or reflection of what makes it so special."

Kevin Maxen
He/Him

Kevin Maxen is a former college football player and the current associate strength coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars.