Gareth Thomas
What would you say to a young LGB person who wants to come out, but is perhaps too scared to?
The big thing with this is that it’s pointless coming out unless you are going to be happy. If you are happy hiding your sexuality and happy living within the boundaries, then that’s for you to decide.
The life and freedom it’s given me is something I have only ever dreamed of. Since I came out, it’s made me such a better and happier person - that’s because I have had people around me like my family and friends. I understand though, that everybody’s circumstances are different. For me it’s been the most amazing thing I have ever done. People shouldn’t have to live a lie.
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To be happy sometimes though, people have to do that. The reality is it’s not the same for everyone. We don’t live in a dream world, we live in the real world.
I hope my experiences of coming out will show a positive message, and that other people in a similar position and feelings like mine will think, “he did it and is respected - Gareth who plays rugby in this macho world and, is very much a man’s man - then maybe i could do it.”
I just feel having come out now it's up to me to be a positive role model for kids and adults who are maybe in the same situation as I was.
I will certainly do my damndest to do that and be that positive role model to help those who maybe are struggling to deal with their sexuality.
About Gareth:
Gareth announced publicly that he was gay in December 2009.
Thomas' public confirmation of his sexuality makes him the first openly gay professional still playing the game to come out. his decision to come out is all the more amazing given the macho world that Rugby is perceived to be. Thomas' Rugby Union career has been one of success and more success.
His club career includes a Welsh Premier Division title in 2003, and a Heineken Cup victory in 2005. Internationally, he has enjoyed huge success with Wales and has also been capped with the British Lions.
Thomas was voted top of the Pink List in 2010 of the 101 most influential gay people in the UK and he received Stonewall's Hero of the Year award in October 2010.
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Gareth appears in our inspirational Aim High booklet, along with 19 other people at the top of their respective fields, showing sexuality should not get in the way of success.
Sam
I think that you are an inspiration, to people who are coming out or already out. It is very brave of you, in the field that you are in, to have done this. I have seen interviews with you on the TV and I think it's great that you are prepared to put yourself out there, to make a difference to other people. I am out to some people and it's by seeing role models in the public eye, who are not afraid to be themselves, that helps give me the confidence to hopefully come out to more. Thank you.