whilst other forms of socially unacceptable prejudices are not tolerated in a sporting arena, It appears to me that it remains incredibly difficult for homosexual males to gain acceptance, or even be publicly comfortable if their sexual orientation does not fit specific and stereotypical parameters. we have seen athletes from the worlds of rugby, cricket and gaelic games "come out" to almost universal acceptance. Something these sports can be rightly proud of. we have seen basketballers and tennis players "come out" at the end of their careers. The one openly gay footballer was disgracefully treated by his own brother and ended up taking his life in tragic circumstances. I know the english FA pulled an advert that challenged this prejudice. I don't know the reason for this. The question I am asking is what can be done to eradicate this prejudice and when will there be an environment that this just isn't an issue? I understand the nature of this forum and I expect some less than serious responses, but i am genuinely interested in the thoughts of those willing to contribute a serious response.
You could make it compulsory to have a homo in every team. How do they prove their homo status though? More questions....
why not? 25 years ago black players were routinely abused and that prejudice has been almost entirely eradicated.
If it can be done in rugby it can be done in football. It just takes one high profile footballer to come out. At first it'll be hard as he will have to put up with the chants and songs from the crowds, especially at away games but as others come out it will die down. Homophobia should not be any more tolerated at football grounds (or elsewhere for that matter) than racism.
I was chatting to a guy from the Justin campaign and he disagreed that the time was right for any one player to take on that burden. I tend to agree with you though. Another argument is that clubs don't want it as it could affect the transfer fee....I don't get that myself, but it is another argument.
It's a difficult one alright. See, I keep having these recurring dreams when I meet up with my best friend, we go drinking, then we go to my place and he pulls out my dick and starts sucking on it. Do you think I should tell him he's gay?
Justin Fashanu..It could have been the shame for playing for the huns that pushed him over the edge though.
Like the acceptance of black players and athletes, it'll take a high profile gaylord mincing to the top of the game for it to change.
not sure this bit is true tbh it is less prominent but plenty of the black players get abused, not bananas but verbals it just seems to be accepted more
I think that the FA and Premier League have got a lot to answer for...after all it was they who banned players from lifting their shirts when they scored a goal......I couldn't resist. In reality I would say that there will certainly be homosexuals playing for clubs, and that they will be accepted and respected within that club for who they are...It is my opinion that players who are homosexual will will not publicise the fact, because of the stick they may or may not get from supporters: which is a sad reflection of our society..
