May 16, (THEWILL) – After coming out as gay, teenager footballer, Jake Daniels, claims he feels motivated to “drive change” in the sport.
On Monday, the 17-year-old wrote a statement on the Tangerines’ website, expressing his gratitude for the “courage” of teammates Josh Cavallo and Matt Morton, as well as Olympic gold medalist diver, Tom Daley.
Daniels has scored 30 goals for Blackpool’s under-19 team this season, and he recently earned his first team debut as a substitute against Peterborough United in the Championship.
The teenager is the first contemporary male professional footballer in the United Kingdom to openly come out as gay, and he aims to serve as a role model as a result of his actions.
“Off the pitch I’ve been hiding the real me and who I really am,” Daniels wrote. “I’ve known my whole life that I’m gay, and I now feel that I’m ready to come out and be myself.
“It’s a step into the unknown being one of the first footballers in this country to reveal my sexuality, but I’ve been inspired by Josh Cavallo, Matt Morton and athletes from other sports, like Tom Daley, to have the courage and determination to drive change.
“In reaching this point, I’ve had some of the best support and advice from my family, my club, my agent and Stonewall, who have all been incredibly pro-active in putting my interests and welfare first.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
