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While trying to raise some interest for his upcoming book, former NBA
player John Amaechi announced Wednesday that he was gay. Under normal
circumstances, having a relatively unknown player (Cleveland, Orlando
and Utah), who lasted just five seasons in the NBA, reveal that he is
homosexual should not have gotten much attention. But when dealing
with the world of professional sports everyday rules do not apply.
For the most part, people have gotten use to homosexuality in the
workforce. But in the sports world, having a gay (male) teammate is
still taboo. Some athletes may say they are ready for a gay teammate,
but most aren’t. That is why there hasn’t been an active gay
athlete in any of the major sports to come out. There is just too much at
stake. No active gay athlete is willing to jeopardize his career,
mainly because there is still an archaic, chauvinistic locker-room
mentality in sports, one that is not ready to embrace an openly gay
teammate.
"The majority of people in pro sports, I mean, in the world, don't feel
comfortable with that type of person around," said Minnesota
Timberwolves guard Troy Hudson. "Especially in a masculine sport where
you're always touching each other (and) you have to take showers
together."
Nicely put, Troy. But keep in mind that Hudson and Amaechi were
teammates in Orlando (2000-01), yet there was never a problem because
Hudson was unaware Amaechi’s sexuality. But let’s say he or
someone else did know, what do you think would have happened? Take a moment to think about it.
Shortly after the news broke, Philadelphia 76ers forward Shavlik
Randolph was asked for his opinion and he responded by saying, "As long
as you don't bring your gayness on me, I'm fine."
Now, it would be easy to dismiss Hudson or Randolph based on the fact
that homosexuality is not a disease or something you can catch while
showering. In addition, most gay men aren’t sexual predators looking
to jump any man they see. But the fact is most professional athletes
are still confused and frightened by homosexuality. Many cultures --
especially the hip-hop community -- view homosexuality as immoral and
as a sign of weakness. Therefore, every single professional gay
athlete must hide his sexuality or risk being ostracized by teammates,
coaches, media members and fans. No one wants to be first athlete to
come out. Heck, Mike Piazza once had to call a press conference just
to say he’s not gay.
But time changes everything.
Throughout the history of professional sports people have been
discriminated against. At one time, blacks weren’t allowed to play
in the major leagues, but sixty years ago, Jackie Robinson became the
first African-American to play in the modern era. In the NFL, there
had never been a black coach to reach the Super Bowl -- mainly because
black coaches were scarce -- but just last week Tony Dungy and Lovie
Smith became the first to reach the Super Bowl.
This goes to show you that stereotypes are often wrong and public
perception can adjust. Some day, a gay athlete will come out during
his playing days and slowly but surely, the general view of the gay
athlete will alter. But it will take a unique player to be the first.
One that is skillful enough to command the respect of his team, like
Dungy, and one that is strong enough to withstand the negative impact
that will likely follow him throughout his career, like Robinson.
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