What essentially defines a professional athlete? Common answers include strength, agility, speed, competitiveness, sportsmanship and an overall ability to perform as a team player under pressure. Not many would say anything about sexual orientation.
Jason Collins, a 12-year NBA veteran, has exhibited those typical qualities of a professional athlete. He also recently came out as gay, the first active male athlete in a major American sport to do so.
Those who oppose the presence of gay athletes in major American sports should take a look at Collins’ accomplishments.
Collins has started 476 games during his 12-year NBA career. He has averaged 3.6 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. He was a member of the New Jersey Nets for 6.5 years, but his most impressive season was in 2004-2005 when he put up 6.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 0.9 blocks per game. He most recently was a member of the Washington Wizards.
Considering his list of accomplishments, it is difficult to see where the controversy concerning his sexual orientation comes from. The majority of his opponents come from the outside.
Most of his teammates have accepted him and showed him respect.
The problem for those outsiders is that Collins doesn’t fit the stereotype of a professional male athlete anymore.
The stigma attached to professional athletes is that that they should be supremely masculine, and many people do not associate homosexuality with masculinity.
Collins’ decision to come out as gay is one step toward breaking the pre-existing mold of “the professional male American athlete.”
His courage and willingness to step forward has been accepted and celebrated by many within the NBA along with countless fans.
There has been an outpour of support within the NBA. Fans and fellow athletes showed their support through Twitter.
Kobe Byrant tweeted, “Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don’t suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU.”
Unfortunately, other athletes also revealed their close-minded opinions on the matter.
Miami Dolphins receiver Mike Wallace posted a controversial tweet that was later removed. It read, “All these beautiful women in the world and guys wanna mess with other guys SMH…”
While this specific tweet is rooted in ignorance, it is most important to place emphasis on the progress that has been made rather than give attention to those who only put forth negativity and hate.
Collins’ bravery encourages others to not be afraid to show their true selves, regardless of occupational status and the accompanying stereotypes.
Collins is now a role model for countless young children, athletes and adults who are struggling with their sexual identity.
Even to those who are heterosexual, Collins is an example of what it means to embody a sense of pride and live life in a way that doesn’t allow societal labels and pressures to prevent one from being the best person possible.
