10 TOP MOMENTS OF 2017
In 2017, we’ve seen a lot of courageous athletes; people who step up and great winners. Here are the best moments of the year according to the OFTW-team.
THE 4 MOST PAINFUL EVENTS OF 2017
An anticlimax, missed opportunities, huge macho behavior and stubborn religious views. We surely have seen some very painful events this year.
Zena
Many British athletes in the spotlight avoid disclosing their personal lives to the public but could make a real difference if they did. Not just for the young athletes but to the parents/grandparents/family/friends etc of a young athlete.
Connor Rose
I try to be more visible about it now than I was then, because I want to encourage a cultural climate where other young trans people can feel enthusiastic about their decisions rather than ashamed or afraid.
A TALK WITH FILMMAKER MICHIEL THOMAS
Michiel Thomas is a Belgian director who lives in Los Angeles. In 2015 he made the documentary ‘Game Face’ in which he followed one gay and one transgender athlete for a few months. Game face has won many awards on film festivals and is to be seen on netflix in more than 190 countries. OFTW interviewed Michiel about his experiences and future plans!
WHAT TO WATCH? 10 TIPS!
LGBTQI-athletes are getting more visibility in series, on YouTube and in movies. We selected ten titels that are a must-watch. Enjoy!
SPORTS WORLD, WILL YOU GET OUT OF THE CLOSET?
When we started this project, we received various reactions. Many people were encouraging the project right away and agreed that it was about time for LGBTQI-athletes to gain more visibility. Others wondered whether this was really necessary. “Does it really matter whether an athlete is gay or trans?” they said. We understand this reaction, but we don’t fully agree. Allow us to explain why a project as Out For The Win is really necessary in current society.
Anastasia
Women’s ice hockey is pretty open to gay athletes, but I found that in rowing and track it was slightly harder to come out. Each sport’s mentality is different, and thus causes coming out to be a different experience.
Haidee
I compete at my best when I have a clear head and zero distractions. If I’ve got the worry of coming out, judgement, people’s opinion of my sexuality, etc on my mind then there’s no chance I’d be able to compete well.
Alex
It is good to have separate LGBT leagues because it allows a safe space for LGBT athletes to play the game where they will not need to worry about being judged by others for their sexual orientation.