Adelaide United midfielder Josh Cavallo became the first openly, homosexual footballer, to come out while still playing in Australia’s A-League. The 21-year-old revealed on Wednesday that he was gay, and is happier with his decision to announce it publicly. Cavallo has represented Australia at the under-20 level.
“I am proud to publicly announce that I am gay. It’s been a journey to get to this point in my life, but I couldn’t be happier with my decision to come out. Adelaide United has made me realize football is more than just a game – it is a family.” Cavallo said in a video released by the club.
‘Fighting with my sexuality’
Josh said he was tired of trying to perform at his best but it was exhausting. And then it got to the point his mental health was affected and he was “going into dark places”.
“I have been fighting with my sexuality for six years now, and I’m glad I can put that to rest. At the end of the day, I just wanted to be happy. This is bigger than football, it’s my life. I’d go home and I wasn’t happy. It just slowly eats away at you and it’s not something I wish upon anyone.” Josh Cavallo said
“Statistics show only 33% of young gay men play football in comparison to 68% of young straight men. That’s a lot of wasted young players missing out — players that could be very talented, but who don’t fit the norm. Perhaps we can play a part in saying that football accepts everyone – that you are all welcome?”
It takes a lot of courage and it’s a big step for him (Josh Cavallo) personally: Brennan
“It takes a lot of courage and it’s a big step for him personally. What it means for a lot of young people, that can see that message and see that two people (Cavallo and Brennan) and other people around the world are comfortable to do that (come out), it’s a great message.” Brennan, the vice-president of the LGBTI sporting engagement organization told ABC
“Josh is a tremendous young man and has shown incredible courage to be one of very few professional sportsmen to be this brave. I have nothing but admiration and support for him, as do all the players and coaching staff,” said Adelaide United head coach Carl Veart
“I want all my players to feel comfortable and happy being their own person, on and off the park. For Josh to be the best he can be and get the most out of his career, he needs the freedom to be himself, and I fully support him.”