Jason Collins became the first openly gay male athlete in a major professional sport by coming out in 2013 after a 12-year NBA career. While things have changed significantly since he was in high school, he hopes future gay athletes will feel comfortable being their authentic selves and not have to hide who they are. Collins just wants to continue his NBA career and be known as a player who helps his team win, not solely as a gay athlete.
The document discusses an individual's ability to pursue personal well-being when faced with competing internal and external demands. It describes the author's experience choosing between playing hockey or curling in high school. They loved both sports but knew they couldn't do six sports with school. They struggled with pressure from friends and coaches on both teams. In the end, the author chose to play hockey because it better supported their well-being by causing less stress and allowing them to be happier. They argue that making the right choice to follow one's internal demands and conscience allows one to thrive, while giving in to external pressures can cause one to lose themselves.
This document discusses various aspects of teenage life from a teen's perspective. It addresses the roles and responsibilities of teens, the importance of patience and self-control, building wise relationships, and effectively managing education. The author emphasizes that teenage life requires patience as one cannot rush important decisions. Teens should focus on growing mentally and spiritually rather than following society's expectations. Choosing friends carefully and concentrating on quality reading are presented as keys to success.
Cody Zeller of the Charlotte Hornets visited a school to teach basketball skills. Students learned about offense, defense, footwork, and dribbling techniques through different stations. They thanked Zeller for his time and for inspiring them to play basketball more and improve their skills.
The One Formula To An Easy Life | Richard Tan Success Resources Scamsuccessresources1
The document discusses how people often struggle financially and feel stuck going through the same routine, similar to how Formula 1 drivers go around the same track. It states that most people do their work because they feel they have to rather than finding passion or happiness. Fear is a main reason people don't change routines or try new things. The document recommends finding your natural talents - things you do well and enjoy - in order to stop struggling and take off successfully in life. It advises to unlearn old habits and mindsets that no longer serve you in order to grow and align with your purpose.
Sam Sly and Nic Crosby explain the thinking behind their #IAMchallengingbehaviour campaign and efforts to end institutionalisation and dehumanisation of people with a learning difficulty.
Why does everyone judge me for doing things by myself?Kelsey Knepler
The author discusses how she frequently does activities like eating out, shopping, and going to movies alone because it is more convenient and she enjoys her own company. However, she notes that she often receives judgmental looks and questions about whether anyone is joining her. In contrast, her male friends report facing less scrutiny for doing things alone. The author argues that women are still seen as less independent than men and criticizes the double standard where doing things independently is seen more negatively for women.
This document outlines classroom rules and procedures for Johnta Owens-Lillie's class, as well as provides biographical information about Owens-Lillie. The classroom rules prohibit disruptions, loud talking, and certain drinks. Homework is due at the start of class, classwork is the exit ticket, and bell ringers and journals are also assigned. Owens-Lillie is from Alabama, attended college there and played football. His hobbies include music, sports, and he is passionate about coaching students to reach their potential. He is engaged to be married to his fiancée Alexis Williams.
This 3 sentence poem discusses the unconditional love and friendship between two brothers from childhood, through challenges like being deaf or discriminated against. It expresses gratitude to the brother for helping the speaker discover that the right path in life is to do what is right.
The document discusses an individual's ability to pursue personal well-being when faced with competing internal and external demands. It describes the author's experience choosing between playing hockey or curling in high school. They loved both sports but knew they couldn't do six sports with school. They struggled with pressure from friends and coaches on both teams. In the end, the author chose to play hockey because it better supported their well-being by causing less stress and allowing them to be happier. They argue that making the right choice to follow one's internal demands and conscience allows one to thrive, while giving in to external pressures can cause one to lose themselves.
This document discusses various aspects of teenage life from a teen's perspective. It addresses the roles and responsibilities of teens, the importance of patience and self-control, building wise relationships, and effectively managing education. The author emphasizes that teenage life requires patience as one cannot rush important decisions. Teens should focus on growing mentally and spiritually rather than following society's expectations. Choosing friends carefully and concentrating on quality reading are presented as keys to success.
Cody Zeller of the Charlotte Hornets visited a school to teach basketball skills. Students learned about offense, defense, footwork, and dribbling techniques through different stations. They thanked Zeller for his time and for inspiring them to play basketball more and improve their skills.
The One Formula To An Easy Life | Richard Tan Success Resources Scamsuccessresources1
The document discusses how people often struggle financially and feel stuck going through the same routine, similar to how Formula 1 drivers go around the same track. It states that most people do their work because they feel they have to rather than finding passion or happiness. Fear is a main reason people don't change routines or try new things. The document recommends finding your natural talents - things you do well and enjoy - in order to stop struggling and take off successfully in life. It advises to unlearn old habits and mindsets that no longer serve you in order to grow and align with your purpose.
Sam Sly and Nic Crosby explain the thinking behind their #IAMchallengingbehaviour campaign and efforts to end institutionalisation and dehumanisation of people with a learning difficulty.
Why does everyone judge me for doing things by myself?Kelsey Knepler
The author discusses how she frequently does activities like eating out, shopping, and going to movies alone because it is more convenient and she enjoys her own company. However, she notes that she often receives judgmental looks and questions about whether anyone is joining her. In contrast, her male friends report facing less scrutiny for doing things alone. The author argues that women are still seen as less independent than men and criticizes the double standard where doing things independently is seen more negatively for women.
This document outlines classroom rules and procedures for Johnta Owens-Lillie's class, as well as provides biographical information about Owens-Lillie. The classroom rules prohibit disruptions, loud talking, and certain drinks. Homework is due at the start of class, classwork is the exit ticket, and bell ringers and journals are also assigned. Owens-Lillie is from Alabama, attended college there and played football. His hobbies include music, sports, and he is passionate about coaching students to reach their potential. He is engaged to be married to his fiancée Alexis Williams.
This 3 sentence poem discusses the unconditional love and friendship between two brothers from childhood, through challenges like being deaf or discriminated against. It expresses gratitude to the brother for helping the speaker discover that the right path in life is to do what is right.
This document provides an introduction to Nicole Casagrand. She lives near Norristown Road in Horsham, Pennsylvania, close to Maple Glenn Pizza. She plays softball and is going to UMBC to continue playing. Her favorite activities include reading, softball, and meeting new people. She aims to become more adventurous and has many goals, including skydiving, zip lining, and traveling extensively.
- Coach Ed Temple and the Tennessee State University Tigerbelles women's track team were pioneers for women in sports in the U.S. and worldwide in the 1960s, as they had to compete against themselves due to the lack of other women's programs. The Tigerbelles dominated at the Olympic Games, often winning more medals than entire countries.
- Wyomia Tyus, a friend of John Carlos, was the first person ever to win the women's 100m at two consecutive Olympics but did not receive due recognition, like other Tigerbelles. Their accomplishments were overlooked partly because they were black women.
- Tyus was an extremely talented runner who competed fearlessly and her back-to-back 100
Ahron Johnson has known Mark Watson for over 5 years and considers him a loyal friend. He writes that Mark is an amazing person who is goal-driven, hard-working, and able to achieve anything he sets his mind to. Ahron also says that Mark is reliable, honest, caring, and has great patience, especially under stress. He would vouch for Mark's professional performance and welcome him to join his team if a suitable position was available.
This document contains a collection of inspirational sayings and messages ("Frewisms") from Jeremy Frew to someone going on a voyage. It encourages having boundless energy, focusing less on oneself and more on others, catching fire with enthusiasm, making the most of retreats, pursuing opportunities enthusiastically, turning small acts into big events, being upbeat and encouraging, focusing on character over reputation, and how people can positively change each other for the better.
Brad Smith played hockey from a young age despite neither of his parents playing. He started in house leagues and later joined a travel team in a town 50 miles away. Smith made his high school varsity team as a freshman and became an important player for their playoff runs, scoring some key goals. Injuries and losses of friends made his junior and senior years more difficult, but hockey taught him valuable life lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and never giving up. While he likely won't have a career in hockey, he hopes to try out for the Detroit Red Wings and will apply the discipline of hockey to his planned career in medical physics.
Katie Robinson learned about philanthropy through volunteering experiences with her family and cheerleading. Each Thanksgiving, she helped prepare and deliver meals to families in need through her local church. As a cheerleader, she raised funds and supported a team for children with disabilities. Her mother worked numerous jobs to support Katie's cheerleading, demonstrating sacrifice for her daughters' passions. Through these experiences, Katie learned that philanthropy is not just monetary donations but making impacts through acts of service and kindness.
This document contains questions asked in an online forum about dating advice for women. The questions cover requirements for men, challenges of dating, advice for single women, and what women look for in potential partners.
1) Decisions, both good and bad, can have significant impacts and costs in our lives that may not always be gratifying.
2) The author discusses their own decision in 9th grade to improve grades, which required sacrificing free time and stress, and Harry Potter's decision to fight Voldemort that led to the death of his godfather.
3) Barack Obama's decision to become President has brought harsh criticism and threats against his family despite being a good decision, demonstrating how impactful and costly even positive decisions can be.
The author volunteered at a Special Olympics event and found it to be a profoundly moving experience. They observed the pride and happiness of the athletes competing and winning events. Interacting with the athletes and others at the event helped reinforce their personal definition of civility as speaking to and treating others, especially those with disabilities, with respect. The author believes that volunteering at an event like the Special Olympics is an excellent way to both experience and help define the concept of civility.
The document discusses how the company you keep influences your life and decisions. It emphasizes that you should choose friends who support your vision and values, lift you up, and want you to succeed. Friends of your vision will help you pursue your goals and encourage you. The document cautions against being friends with those who have different values or convictions than you or do not support your vision, as they can confuse or distract you. It provides biblical verses on friendship and cautions that bad company can corrupt good character.
This document is the weekly newsletter of the Plano Rotary Club. It provides information on upcoming meetings and speakers, as well as birthdays for the month. It summarizes a recent meeting, recognizing members and discussing presentations from coaches of local high school football teams. The newsletter aims to inform members and build community within the club.
Coach Mike Smith received many messages from former students and athletes wishing him a happy 60th birthday and reflecting on his positive influence and impact. Many commented on how he instilled a strong work ethic and positive attitude in his players. They appreciated his encouragement and belief in them both on and off the court, and described him as a father figure who cared deeply about their well-being and success in life. Coach Smith clearly made a lasting impression and difference in the lives of many through his coaching and mentorship over the years.
Trisha Lynn Aughe's senior synthesis discusses themes of self, family, friends, faith, and life. It contains quotes about learning from both positive and negative experiences, the importance of family, having faith even when it doesn't make sense, and appreciating each moment and the people in your life. The document emphasizes trusting yourself and taking chances while making the most of life and the relationships that matter most.
This document appears to be a personal branding document created by Melina Munton. It includes quotes from friends praising her intelligence, dedication to her work, and value as a friend. It also lists things she is known for like intelligence and horses, as well as classes and skills she wants to improve in the coming year. The document covers a wide range of topics from life lessons to relationships to electives and goals for the next 90 days in order to present a well-rounded personal brand.
SEI Club is an exclusive international matchmaking and dating club that has been established for over 14 years. They introduce and match elite individuals in hopes of starting real and lasting relationships. Once members pass the screening process, they have a private consultation where a matchmaker learns about their preferences to find suitable matches. When a perfect match is found, members can learn about each other's profiles before deciding to meet in person, with the matchmaker coordinating the date details. The club then provides feedback after the date to help find future matches if needed. SEI Club aims to find each member their perfect match and supports them throughout the process.
This document contains several articles from the Volksrust Recorder newspaper. The first article discusses the use of religion in politics and sports. It questions why some people seem to be "blessed" over others. The second article talks about the importance of making the right choices in life and seeking guidance from God. It warns against making decisions without being ready for the consequences. The third article announces that two boys from Laerskool Amersfoort have been selected for the Under 13 Bokkie rugby team. The fourth article discusses the success of various Volkies hockey teams, with several being crowned as league winners.
This document is a collection of messages and notes for Verna Liza D. Bautista's birthday from her best friend Ronald B. Cacao. It contains well wishes for her birthday, expressions of their strong friendship, inside jokes and memories from their time in high school, and gratitude for her support over the years.
Olympic Softball Great Dot Richardson Answers My Ten Questions Gary Leland
Dot Richardson began playing softball at age 10 after being noticed for her throwing ability. She credits her Christian faith and parents with helping her become a great player. Richardson prepares mentally for games by visualizing her performance. When not playing softball, she enjoys influencing others through motivational speaking and her work in healthcare and youth sports. The greatest obstacle she overcame was girls initially being denied the opportunity to play organized sports.
This document is the table of contents for the book "177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class" by Steve Siebold. It outlines some of the thought processes, habits, and philosophies that champions employ according to the author's research and experience coaching world-class performers. Some of the topics covered in the book include operating from objective reality, developing world-class beliefs before becoming a champion, embracing relativity, and compartmentalizing emotions. The document provides an overview of the concepts that will be discussed and analyzed in greater depth within the chapters of the book.
The document provides biographical information about Matthew Moore, including his name meaning, birthplace, family health history, hobbies, education history, future aspirations to join the Navy and become a doctor, and how media has influenced his style and gear choices related to his activities and favorite athletes.
This document provides an introduction to Nicole Casagrand. She lives near Norristown Road in Horsham, Pennsylvania, close to Maple Glenn Pizza. She plays softball and is going to UMBC to continue playing. Her favorite activities include reading, softball, and meeting new people. She aims to become more adventurous and has many goals, including skydiving, zip lining, and traveling extensively.
- Coach Ed Temple and the Tennessee State University Tigerbelles women's track team were pioneers for women in sports in the U.S. and worldwide in the 1960s, as they had to compete against themselves due to the lack of other women's programs. The Tigerbelles dominated at the Olympic Games, often winning more medals than entire countries.
- Wyomia Tyus, a friend of John Carlos, was the first person ever to win the women's 100m at two consecutive Olympics but did not receive due recognition, like other Tigerbelles. Their accomplishments were overlooked partly because they were black women.
- Tyus was an extremely talented runner who competed fearlessly and her back-to-back 100
Ahron Johnson has known Mark Watson for over 5 years and considers him a loyal friend. He writes that Mark is an amazing person who is goal-driven, hard-working, and able to achieve anything he sets his mind to. Ahron also says that Mark is reliable, honest, caring, and has great patience, especially under stress. He would vouch for Mark's professional performance and welcome him to join his team if a suitable position was available.
This document contains a collection of inspirational sayings and messages ("Frewisms") from Jeremy Frew to someone going on a voyage. It encourages having boundless energy, focusing less on oneself and more on others, catching fire with enthusiasm, making the most of retreats, pursuing opportunities enthusiastically, turning small acts into big events, being upbeat and encouraging, focusing on character over reputation, and how people can positively change each other for the better.
Brad Smith played hockey from a young age despite neither of his parents playing. He started in house leagues and later joined a travel team in a town 50 miles away. Smith made his high school varsity team as a freshman and became an important player for their playoff runs, scoring some key goals. Injuries and losses of friends made his junior and senior years more difficult, but hockey taught him valuable life lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and never giving up. While he likely won't have a career in hockey, he hopes to try out for the Detroit Red Wings and will apply the discipline of hockey to his planned career in medical physics.
Katie Robinson learned about philanthropy through volunteering experiences with her family and cheerleading. Each Thanksgiving, she helped prepare and deliver meals to families in need through her local church. As a cheerleader, she raised funds and supported a team for children with disabilities. Her mother worked numerous jobs to support Katie's cheerleading, demonstrating sacrifice for her daughters' passions. Through these experiences, Katie learned that philanthropy is not just monetary donations but making impacts through acts of service and kindness.
This document contains questions asked in an online forum about dating advice for women. The questions cover requirements for men, challenges of dating, advice for single women, and what women look for in potential partners.
1) Decisions, both good and bad, can have significant impacts and costs in our lives that may not always be gratifying.
2) The author discusses their own decision in 9th grade to improve grades, which required sacrificing free time and stress, and Harry Potter's decision to fight Voldemort that led to the death of his godfather.
3) Barack Obama's decision to become President has brought harsh criticism and threats against his family despite being a good decision, demonstrating how impactful and costly even positive decisions can be.
The author volunteered at a Special Olympics event and found it to be a profoundly moving experience. They observed the pride and happiness of the athletes competing and winning events. Interacting with the athletes and others at the event helped reinforce their personal definition of civility as speaking to and treating others, especially those with disabilities, with respect. The author believes that volunteering at an event like the Special Olympics is an excellent way to both experience and help define the concept of civility.
The document discusses how the company you keep influences your life and decisions. It emphasizes that you should choose friends who support your vision and values, lift you up, and want you to succeed. Friends of your vision will help you pursue your goals and encourage you. The document cautions against being friends with those who have different values or convictions than you or do not support your vision, as they can confuse or distract you. It provides biblical verses on friendship and cautions that bad company can corrupt good character.
This document is the weekly newsletter of the Plano Rotary Club. It provides information on upcoming meetings and speakers, as well as birthdays for the month. It summarizes a recent meeting, recognizing members and discussing presentations from coaches of local high school football teams. The newsletter aims to inform members and build community within the club.
Coach Mike Smith received many messages from former students and athletes wishing him a happy 60th birthday and reflecting on his positive influence and impact. Many commented on how he instilled a strong work ethic and positive attitude in his players. They appreciated his encouragement and belief in them both on and off the court, and described him as a father figure who cared deeply about their well-being and success in life. Coach Smith clearly made a lasting impression and difference in the lives of many through his coaching and mentorship over the years.
Trisha Lynn Aughe's senior synthesis discusses themes of self, family, friends, faith, and life. It contains quotes about learning from both positive and negative experiences, the importance of family, having faith even when it doesn't make sense, and appreciating each moment and the people in your life. The document emphasizes trusting yourself and taking chances while making the most of life and the relationships that matter most.
This document appears to be a personal branding document created by Melina Munton. It includes quotes from friends praising her intelligence, dedication to her work, and value as a friend. It also lists things she is known for like intelligence and horses, as well as classes and skills she wants to improve in the coming year. The document covers a wide range of topics from life lessons to relationships to electives and goals for the next 90 days in order to present a well-rounded personal brand.
SEI Club is an exclusive international matchmaking and dating club that has been established for over 14 years. They introduce and match elite individuals in hopes of starting real and lasting relationships. Once members pass the screening process, they have a private consultation where a matchmaker learns about their preferences to find suitable matches. When a perfect match is found, members can learn about each other's profiles before deciding to meet in person, with the matchmaker coordinating the date details. The club then provides feedback after the date to help find future matches if needed. SEI Club aims to find each member their perfect match and supports them throughout the process.
This document contains several articles from the Volksrust Recorder newspaper. The first article discusses the use of religion in politics and sports. It questions why some people seem to be "blessed" over others. The second article talks about the importance of making the right choices in life and seeking guidance from God. It warns against making decisions without being ready for the consequences. The third article announces that two boys from Laerskool Amersfoort have been selected for the Under 13 Bokkie rugby team. The fourth article discusses the success of various Volkies hockey teams, with several being crowned as league winners.
This document is a collection of messages and notes for Verna Liza D. Bautista's birthday from her best friend Ronald B. Cacao. It contains well wishes for her birthday, expressions of their strong friendship, inside jokes and memories from their time in high school, and gratitude for her support over the years.
Olympic Softball Great Dot Richardson Answers My Ten Questions Gary Leland
Dot Richardson began playing softball at age 10 after being noticed for her throwing ability. She credits her Christian faith and parents with helping her become a great player. Richardson prepares mentally for games by visualizing her performance. When not playing softball, she enjoys influencing others through motivational speaking and her work in healthcare and youth sports. The greatest obstacle she overcame was girls initially being denied the opportunity to play organized sports.
This document is the table of contents for the book "177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class" by Steve Siebold. It outlines some of the thought processes, habits, and philosophies that champions employ according to the author's research and experience coaching world-class performers. Some of the topics covered in the book include operating from objective reality, developing world-class beliefs before becoming a champion, embracing relativity, and compartmentalizing emotions. The document provides an overview of the concepts that will be discussed and analyzed in greater depth within the chapters of the book.
The document provides biographical information about Matthew Moore, including his name meaning, birthplace, family health history, hobbies, education history, future aspirations to join the Navy and become a doctor, and how media has influenced his style and gear choices related to his activities and favorite athletes.
The document provides biographical information about Matthew Moore, including his name meaning, birthplace, family health history, hobbies, education history, friendships, aspirations to join the Navy as a medic, and how media influences his style and purchases.
The document provides biographical information about Matthew Moore, including his name meaning, birthplace, family health history, hobbies, education history, friendships, aspirations to join the Navy as a medic, and how media influences his style and purchases.
Reboot Podcast #29 - Who's in Your Corner? - with Carrie Barryrebootio
Carrie Barry is the co-founder of The Corner Boxing Club in Boulder, Colorado, which she opened with her wife Kirsten in 2014. [2] Carrie got into boxing after tearing her ACL in high school and used it for rehab, discovering she had a talent for the sport. She went on to compete for the US Olympic team and travel the world through boxing. [3] Carrie discusses how boxing provided her a sense of family and community, which was important for her as she left her mother's home at age 12 and lived with different families every six months growing up. Her experience shaped her approach at The Corner Boxing Club to make everyone feel welcome and part of the community.
Michael John Carley recounts pitching poorly in a semi-pro baseball game at age 48, giving up multiple runs. Though internally composed, his pitches were missing their targets due to a hole in the mound. His 17-year-old son watched from the dugout. During the outing, a spectator yelled "Hey pitcher, you suck!" reflecting Carley's worst performance. Carley has Asperger's Syndrome but keeps his diagnosis private from his teammates, using baseball as an escape from discussing autism professionally.
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Episode 256 Snippets: Chase Griffin of UCLA Football and his personal NILNeil Horowitz
On episode 256 of the Digital and Social Media Sports Podcast, Neil chatted with Chase Griffin, UCLA student-athlete (football), NIL leader, brand ambassador, and creator.
What follows is a collection of snippets from the podcast. To hear the full interview and more, check out the podcast on all podcast platforms and at www.dsmsports.net
Episode 256 Snippets: Chase Griffin of UCLA Football and his personal NIL
Q&A with Jason Collins '97
1. DROPPINGTHEMASKJason Collins ’97 became the first male
professional athlete still playing in a major
team sport to come out as gay, paving the
way for gay athletes in professional, amateur
and scholastic sports around the world.
2. Q:
Q:
Q:
Q:
Howdifferentdoyouthinkthingswouldhavebeen
for you had you come out when you attended high
school?
My senior year in high school was 1997. The country has
changed a lot since then. In fact, the country has changed a
lot in the last five years. A lot of it – especially with “Don’t
Ask, Don’t Tell” being introduced in the ’90s, and then being
repealed by President Obama, and some the states in this
country recognizing gay marriage and marriage equality –
wasn’t the case in 1997. Slowly, more and more people are
coming to that point of acceptance and tolerance and un-
derstanding. It was time for me in my private life, and it was
time for this country. Because of the people who came before
me, whether it be Dave Kopay in football, John Amaechi in
basketball, Martina Navratilova in tennis, Robbie Rogers in
soccer, Brittney Griner, and so on. Each person who steps
forward continues that conversation and fosters that culture of
acceptance and tolerance. That’s important for equality.
A:
A:
A:
A:
What was it like for you to muster up the courage
to come out on such huge stage?
For me, I haven’t really looked at it as courage. I looked at it
as something that needed to be done. I’ve always been a “lead
by example” kind of guy. If something needs to be said, I’ll
say it. Something needs to be done, I’ll be that guy that shows
you that example, I’ll walk the walk. I had reached that point
in my private life. My family already knew, my friends already
knew. Once you get a taste of what life is like when you take
off that mask, it gets tougher and tougher to put that mask
back on. I needed to be genuine.
Since coming out, you’ve been referred to as the
“Jackie Robinson” of gay players in professional
sports. Do you see yourself as that figure? What’s
it like for you to get those comparisons?
I don’t even want to compare what I did to Jackie Robinson –
what Jackie Robinson did, it was monumental. All I wanted
to do was live an honest, genuine life. Others are going to say
what they want to say, but to me it all comes down to living
an honest, genuine life.
THROWBACK
Jason Collins ’97, right, drives past a St.
Francis defender as a member of the
1995-96Wolverine basketball team.
With the leadership it took to break this barrier in
sports, what do you have to say about leadership
in general?
I think everybody has a point where they realize that it’s make
or break time. Trust me, I was in the figurative classroom
waiting for someone to step up, while I waited on the sideline
cheering for them. But nobody else was raising their hand in
the metaphoric class. For so many of us, you get to the point
where you have to make a choice, where you can go with the
crowd, or you can make a stand on principle. This is going to
make me happier in my life. Perhaps this is going to make a
positive change in someone else’s life, culture, or something
else. When you’re trying to be happy and affect that positive
change, sometimes you just have to put yourself out there.
Sometimes you’ll be surprised – I was amazed by the response.
There are people waiting on the sideline like I was. You’ve got
to put yourself out there.
BY GRANT NUSSBAUM
Q&AWITH
JASONCOLLINS’97
CHRONICLE ARCHIVES
16 • BIG REDYEAR IN REVIEW 2013
3. Q:
Q:
Q:
Q:
Q:
A:
A:
A:
A:
A:
What advice would you have for current gay athletes in
high school?
Advice I would have for them is that while I would never judge, I’ll say, it
feels so much better to wake up in the morning knowing that you’re not
living with that mask on, that you don’t have to go out pretending. When
you take that mask off, it’s the same you, the same mannerisms, the same
values, the same wants and dreams. But you’re going to live an honest life,
and you’re going to feel so much better for doing it. Yeah, it’s not going to be
easy, but it’s well worth the journey.
What are your expectations going forward for your
career?
I’m looking forward to signing a contract when free agency begins,
and I’m looking forward to continuing my career as number 98.
I’m still in the mindset that I know I can help an NBA team win
basketball games. It might not necessarily be on the court, it might
be as that solid veteran guy in the locker room, showing the guys
what it means to be a leader. And when my name and number are
called, I’ll be ready to take the court, and go out there and do what I’ve
done my entire 12-year career – do the dirty work, do the small things
that help the team be successful.
If you were in high school today, would you feel comfortable
coming out?
In 2013? I hope I’d have the strength to come out then. I know my family’s
behind me. I was very fortunate that my family loves me unconditionally,
but for so many, when you first come out, you don’t have that support. There
are organizations out there that will raise you up and show you that you’re
beautiful just how God made you. To put yourself what I put myself through,
I don’t wish that on anyone. You’re at war with yourself – it eats at you
mentally, physically, emotionally. To keep putting on that mask, I don’t wish
that on anyone. I hope most people realize, just be yourself and live your life,
and people will raise you up.
Going forward, what are your hopes and
expectations for openly gay athletes?
I hope when the next person comes out the spotlight will
be on them, but it’ll be less and less – that we will publicly
acknowledge it, but that we’ll be like, “can you help us win
games?” As athletes, can you help the team win games, or
if it’s an individual sport, can you go out there like Martina
Navratilova and kick butt? That’s what the focus is on –
she’s a great athlete who happens to be gay. We need that
acknowledgement, but at the same time, it shouldn’t be the
focus.
What impact did playing at Harvard-Westlake have
on you as a player and as a person?
The Harvard-Westlake community is obviously a special
community. There were some friends who have known for
quite some time that I was gay. That trust, that family, that
environment, it fosters trust and loyalty. With regards to the
basketball team – in sports that’s what it’s all about, it’s all about
winning. We went out there and got two state championships,
while gaining lifetime friendships. Some of the guys on that
team knew before the general public, and guarded my secret.
It’s like a family, a Harvard-Westlake family. I have my Harvard-
Westlake family, my Stanford family and my NBA family.
THROWDOWN
Jason Collins ’97
elevates for a dunk in his
senior season with the
Wolverines.
CHRONICLE ARCHIVES