A backup Arizona State offensive lineman is believed to be the first openly gay college football player.
According to the Arizona Republic, “Chip Sarafin, a non-scholarship offensive lineman, has come out publicly as gay.” He is a fifth-year senior and a walk-on.
He told Compete magazine that “he began telling his teammates he is gay over the spring.”
“It was really personal to me, and it benefited my peace of mind greatly,” Sarafin reportedly said.
According to the Republic, “Sarafin, who has yet to play in a game with the Sun Devils, is believed to be the first active major-college football player to come out publicly.”
Michael Sam, whose teammates knew he was gay when he played at Missouri, announced that he was gay before the NFL Draft. He Tweeted a message of support to Sarafin:
Congratulations Chip Sarafin for having the courage to be yourself. Wishing you and your teammates much success this season. #courage2014
— Michael Sam (@MichaelSamNFL) August 13, 2014
Photo: Compete Magazine
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