I started trampoline when I was nine years old. I did artistic gymnastics before that, as well as soccer. However nothing beats the feeling of flying through the air. I still enjoy pushing my limits in the sport everyday. I try to jump higher and do harder skills than in the past. In the past I’ve competed for Canada as well as done acrobatic shows part time. My ambitions for the near future are to join Cirque du Soleil and continue performing doing what I love to do.
I came out at the age of 18. I told people because it’s a part of who I am and I have no reason to hide that or be ashamed of it. So I am also out in my sport club, which happened at the same time. My teammates, club and everyone in my sport were very accepting and supportive, which made it easy to come out.
I think there has been an evolution of LGTBQI in sports. It is talked about more and has been slowly becoming more and more accepted around the world.
There are a lot of other athletes in the Trampoline and Tumbling world who are gay. Seeing how they were accepted made it easier for me to come out. I looked up to them as athletes. Knowing they weren’t scared to be themselves and seeing everyone accepting them for who they are, made me happy. It made me realize it’s really not a big deal and therefore made it easier when it was my turn to come out.
My sport is very tolerant of gay people. Everyone in trampoline from my country* and other countries around the world are very supportive. I’ve been very fortunate to never have a negative experience. My coach has always been extremely tolerant and accepting of gay people. He is really amazing and supportive no matter what. I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor in my life!
I think there has been an evolution of LGTBQI in sports. It is talked about more and has been slowly becoming more and more accepted around the world. If athletes are staying closeted, I’m sure they have their own reasons. But I have noticed more professional athletes have been coming out and being proud.
I’m very fortunate to have had a great experience coming out. If I could go back in time, I wouldn’t change a thing. My advice to others: Just be yourself! Those who matter won’t care, and those who care don’t matter.
Note: Canada