In Other News...

The lastest cover of ESPN Magazine struck me today. I heard it in the news too.

"The NBA locker room was the most flamboyant place I've ever been. Guys flaunted their perfect bodies. They bragged about sexual exploits. They primped in front of the mirror, applying cologne and hair gel by the bucketful. They tried on each other's $10,000 suits, admired each other's rings and necklaces. It was an intense camraderie that felt completely natural to them. Surveying the room, I couldn't help chuckling to myself: And I'm the gay one."

- John Amaechi

It's people like him that make me proud to be an openly gay man. In my eyes, he is a great role model and shatters so many stereotypes. Oddly enough, I explained to my AAS professor I was gay today. I wanted to let her know because my papers and homework would make a little more sense. I told her today because there is a group of idiotic BOYS who were making annoying side comments because the professor had briefly talked about Brokeback Mountain. I digress. Mr. Amaechi has finally spoken up about who he is and he has made it known to the professional sports world. His courage inspires me.

It still bothers me that the NBA, which has the best players in the country (if not the world), can have a problem with homosexuality and sports. In the article, John explains that straight players obsessed over the idea of homosexuality and how "wrong" it all was. Stupidly enough, none of them knew enough about "fags" to really dislike them. I agree with Mr. Amaechi though. Straight men overemmasculate themselves for fear of showing weakness.

A highly regarded player has recently been banned from the NBA All-Stars events this year. Why?

...because Tim Hardaway said, "You know, I hate gay people, so I let it be known. I don't like gay people and I don't like to be around gay people."

Thanks Tim. You may have apologized, but the fact remains that you said it..and we're all sure you meant it too. Your comments were uneccessary and fueled the fires of hate and ignorance. Some role model you turned out to be.

So yes, I have a remote interest in sports. I have been physically active since I was a kid. I am a competitive person. I played sports in high school. I made both the tennis team and the volleyball team.

So don't call ME a fag. Don't think I'm weak. I bet I can throw a baseball further than you can. "Fags" can be athletic, exude both physical and mental strength. I don't find it wrong to be beaten by a girl either. You only beat yourself.

Thanks John Amaechi. You earned my respect as a new fan. Maybe I'll see you at the Abbey one day.