Former British Lions and Wales rugby captain Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas is the first professional rugby union player to announce that he is gay when he recently made the announcement about his sexuality.
Former British Lions and Wales rugby captain Gareth 'Alfie' Thomas is the first professional rugby union player to announce that he is gay when he recently made the announcement about his sexuality.
Gareth hopes that the decision to talk about his sexuality will expel discrimination and stigma, and dismiss stereotypes from the sporting arena. He is working closely with the organisation ChildLine in order to encourage all children to contact the charity if they need support, whatever their worry. In addition, by telling his story Gareth Thomas hopes to inspire others who may wish to pursue a sporting career or simply to live a normal life but feel that they are different, to do so without the fear of rejection and humiliation.
"I hope that by being the first rugby player to make this announcement, I can encourage youngsters to pursue their sporting careers and dreams, whatever they may be, without fear of being rejected, bullied or laughed at and to encourage equality from team mates and fans," said Gareth
"I would like to thank everyone at the Blues for the tremendous support I have received over recent weeks. I would especially like to thank Peter Thomas, Bob Norster, David Young and Gareth Edwards who have been absolutely brilliant with me."
"The fans have been superb, which means a lot to me. I've received dozens of emails and letters of support, and as much as I would like to write to everyone personally to thank them it simply isn't possible. However, I've set up a Twitter page with the support of Stonewall on twitter.com/gareththomas14 to post messages and any advice I can offer."
There are a number of ways you can contact ChildLine. Whichever you choose, you'll get expert advice from counsellors. Call Freephone 0800 111 or visit www.childline.org.uk