Gus Johnston: The reality of homophobia in sport 

Big hug for you Gus Johnston!

I LOVE YOU 😘 😍 Gus Johnston for your bravery and courage to share your story, as a gay man myself I have been through similar things like you

Better late than never Gus. I commend you for vocalizing your truth.

Dear Gus, I am embarrassed to have come across your story and this video only recently. This is the single most honest and powerful coming-out statement I have ever heard. Please do not feel any regret for not being strong or brave enough to have done it while you were still playing hockey. You have courage that most of us will never have. You are a true inspiration - my hero.

Great story and wonderful courage Gus!

The truth is you're human and you're a genuine first class gentleman. Possibly more of a man this most, Why did it take me 2-3 years to see this? Better now than never. Thank you Gus sir.

Thank you, Gus. Appreciate your honesty, courage, and story. Much love - Jim, Colorado Springs, CO.

You're such an obviously beautiful man on the outside, and now you're proving to be an amazingly beautiful man on the inside. Good for you Gus! I'm sure you'll be an inspiration to others who might be facing the same situation as you. Thanks for sharing.

Es dificil ser realmente como eres, por que las personas te dicen como debes ser aún que no quieras; pero es más difíl y doloroso permitirlo. Esta en nuestras manos no dejar que los demas nos digan como ser. Bien por Gus, me da un ejemplo y me anima a admitir y aseptarme como soy, que gusto que existan hombres como él, que gusto!

This is the most honest thing I've seen in a long time. Well done and I'm sure it'll be inspirational to many people.

I watched this a while ago but I came back to it after Malcolm Turnbull gave a shout out to the Bingham Cup. I'm glad you are visible.

Imagine someone 100 years or more in the future coming across this video and wondering why we as people from the past needed to even debate or make videos about acceptance because they have never know homophobia and discrimination. I really do hope that our future generations never ever ever ever have to be subject to such hatred and discrimination and that the world has finally united as one and has stopped the them and us attitudes of current day society. As for you Gus, I thankyou. Xo

You are a brave man, if only i could be the same as you and many others. Maybe one day but idk it’s tough i find it one of the hardest things ever, and i’m gonna be a Police Officer soon that alone says a lot with my caparison. I’m 20 gonna be 21 soon and i just feel i will lose everything more some my family then friends, but the thing is i’m the best person to help other people out and they can come to me for anything. Also i don’t want being what i am to effect being a police officer.

To anyone that uses the bible as stating that Christ said anything against homosexuality please take a theology course and if you are one of those selective christians that pick and chose only what is comfortable then you need christ healing as you are a hypocrit. For the LGBT youth or older persons coming to terms to who you really are live your life proud and set an example. The hate is coming from those who are repressed. It is difficult but you are not alone.

I understand that it can be difficult for anybody and for someone who is in the public eye, to come out and live openly. That said, when people who are highly visible due to sports, or any field really, come out, that shows that LGBTIQ people are capable of doing many great things, and can live productive and successful lives, a valuable message for youth who are struggling with their own identities. I wish that had been available to me when I was young. Congrats for stepping up and out..

Hi Gus, I sat here & watched the video, & my eyes were swimming in tears. What a powerful & wonderful gesture of yours, to share this. You have done what I want to do, but have not yet got up the courage to do. This is so difficult for me, as I am generally not the most 'sharing' person anyway but at the same time, I feel a pressure building in me to tell someone. With an example like this video, maybe I will go for it, and tell. Thanks so much Gus. You don't know how much good this has done.

Speaking as a straight bloke, it must have been a hard thing to do. Perhaps slightly easier having left the sport. But when it comes down to it, what does it matter? Who gives a rats arse about the sexual orientation of a great sports person? You follow them (or not) because of their sporting abilities. Good on you Gus. But the sad thing is that it matters to people. You don't hear sportspeople having to admit "oh by the way, i'm a microsoft engineer". What is the relevance? Respect them.

Gus, as we all are mere mortals of human beings, a great proportion of us are in need of forgiveness for our ignorance, lack of education and for the fact that great numbers of us are self-induced hypocrites. Toss away the shame, walk tall and grab life with all that it encompasses, which is your Birthright, the good and the not so good. Imagine yourself having your own child who finds himself/herself gay, love yourself the way YOU would nurture, love and protect your child. Love & Respects

It's wonderful to see you being comfortable with yourself and compassionate about people who go through the same ordeal. I feel gutted, hearing people were close to taking their own life, because of socially and religiously imposed constraints. The throwing up metaphor for coming out is so meaningful, because you finally refute and vomit all the unfounded criticism, hatred, bigotry and disgrace, that's been forced down your throat.

I like watching videos like this, because it lets me see what other people are going through. I am gay, but luckily I didn't have this issue with coming out. Everything fell into place perfectly for me when coming out, and it made my senior year of high school the best year of my life. I was around really great friends who loved me for me, and everyone I told was willing to defend me if others had an issue. I am sorry that people have to go through this; it does get better. Phenomenal job, Gus.

Thank you for doing this. It took a lot of courage to do this and please know that I am sure it will help many people. Not only those who need to know that they are not alone, but those who need to learn that anyone can be gay. You've done a great thing with this, please don't listen to any of the negative junk that will come your way. Your amazing, and I just wish I could give you a big hug! Thanks again.

I second most of the comments here. I share a very similar journey and can appreciate what you are saying on a very personal level. Only thing I would add is don't regret decisions you couldn't make at the time. Life is far to short for regrets and each journey is in our own way and our own time. You are brave, caring, compassionate and your parents couldn't ask for a better son who has become a great man.

In my opinion, you have become the best man that you could be. You are strong and honest, and you have dealt with your past in a truthful way. Your coming out in such a public forum will not just make everyone aware that there are gay professional athletes, but, also, it will make the way easier for future gay sports figures. They will have an easier path due to you. Congratulations on a heartfelt and powerful video!

Awesome Gus. Very well spoken, great videography and of course a powerful message. Especially for people like me who were probably more on the other side of the fence, finding entertainment in teasing others who were different. Enjoying getting a laugh by teasing people like "Angus the red-head kid". I'm stoked that you have found the power to be true to yourself and share your story to hopefully make a difference.

Well done Gus, an inspiring effort. Portrays the exact message I've been trying to get across to my year 8 sex ed class who are having difficulty grasping the idea that sexuality is not a choice, as well as society's expectations and inequalities etc. Excited to show them your video today! Hopefully it will open their eyes a little hearing such a personal and first-hand experience Thanks! :)

@MunfyKun Be strong in the knowledge that thousands, if not millions, of people across the globe would stand tall and proud with you my friend. You are not alone. You are not a lesser man. And there is hope. Because you have the strength and courage to continue forward. I know the 39,000 people who have watched my story would echo my sentiments and send you their support.

Good on you Gus, I know it's not easy but it's this kind of bravery that propels society forward! :D

me encantaría que el vídeo este subtitulado ya que me costo entender algunas cosas . pero de igual manera te deseo toda la suerte del mundo.

Gus, I had never heard of you before today, but I just want to reiterate what others here are saying: you are brave and insightful and beautiful. Leave all your regrets behind you. You do untold good with this video. Your time is now. To regret it wasn't yesterday is an unfair expectation of yourself. Much love from Canada!

Thank you Sir for this video. This must have been very difficult to make and then to release it. I hope that you continue to find successes in your life's labors, as well let in the love and support that surrounds you. You are an inspiration as person with such strength in character to be so honest about who you are. Cheers

Congratulations on your courage. It is so sad that the sports world cannot see that sexual preference does not mean predatory actions..so sick. Sport needs to see that great players can be gay nd happy...and certainly better players. Homophobia worries about the dressing room but maybe those guys lack confidence in their own sexuality

I quit playing Hockey in my early 20's for the same reason, I even changed teams once and played at a lower grade to avoid the homophobia to no avail. Then about 5 years later I was welcomed into the Melbourne Uni Hockey Club were there was no issues at all. I was just one of the team. Thank You Melbourne Uni Hockey Club, Tim and Jason Go Shoppers. "It Does Get Better."

Speaking as a straight married man and dad, may Gus and everyone else struggling in the midst of bigotry find friends, family, and love that accepts you as the person you are. For you are persons fully deserving of a happy and fulfilling life among welcoming community as anyone else.

Straight or gay, we all have the right to seek and fight for happiness! Love yourself and always be thankful to the miracle and the great opportunity that life is and brings. Just remember the ones who love you and not the people trying to bring you down! Stay Strong!

Kudos to you, Mr. Johnston. Welcome to the rest of your life... by that I mean no longer living behind that wall of lies, so to speak. Thank you for your strength and courage. Oh, and never apologize for being ginger. Some of us like the red. Good on ya, as they say.

Gus, You shouldn't beat yourself up for the past. What you do now & in the future is what's more important. And what you're doing now is a great thing. Someone who is as introspective, well-spoken, & attractive as you will go far in the world. Best wishes.

I just watched this again after three years, and it is still impressive. Well done, Gus. I have put this on my "Coming Out As Gay" RU-vid Playlist, and I just hope that a great many more people will see this. I especially hope that everyone in athletics and all the people of Australia will view your video.

I hope you are happy now Gus, you have no time to regret, you survived and that is the single most important thing you did. Look forward to the beautiful future you deserve and have definitely earned. Thanks for this video, but no regrets!!! OK??? xxx

Every time i watch your video, it brings tear to my eyes but it also brings courage, determination in me:) Good luck in everything, life's hard but a gay life is harder but if u have the spirit, you will nail it:) My coming out took a long time too xx

Gus, thankyou, thankyou. You're a great inspiration to all of us who might have ever struggled with our sexuality, within a sporting context or beyond. This video shows you to be a brave, honest, humble and wise person. All power to your and your message.

The power of your message comes from its simple honesty. You are inspiration to everyone - gay or straight. What you have done required bravery and strength of spirit only very special people like you have. I'm sure God broke the mould after He made you.

what a wonderful man. You should finally feel great relief and I wish you the greatest happiness in your life. Go forward and find that man you so deserve (if you haven't already found him). Anyone would be very lucky to be with you.

I am so lucky to be living in a society that finally starts realizing sexuality is not what define us as individuals. I cannot even begin to explain how of a positive impact on our society the coming out of all these more or less famous men has. Thank you.

another brave and wonderful individual making a stand. so many talented gay/men men get isolated, shunned and rejected. It is a loss to any society. Times are changing and you are a part of that change. Thankyou

Great video :) Hope this encourages other sportsman or ANYONE to be true to themselves and be proud. I suppose I have been lucky, playing hockey to a fairly decent level, being openly gay and having great team mates.

To every young and old, gay or lesbian person out there: I think you are too loved and too good to not live a life true to yourself. Be extraordinary. Be Inspiring. Be true. And Rise above the hate.

Excellent video Gus. Congratulations on the courage and honesty you have shared with us. I know there are a lot of people out there that will watch this and relate to it. It's very inspiring. :)

Good ON ya, Gus Johnston! Fantastic video...thanks for your courage and candor, guy.....there is a huge population of gay and lesbian athletes out here to welcome and embrace you...come out and play!

Incredibly brave and beautiful video mate. I am truly inspired, and I have no doubt your experience and honesty will be comforting and reassuring to many in a similar position. Good on you Gus. Mick Bakos

thankyou - inspirational. I was 46 before I was brave enough to come out. Homophobia wrecks so many lives. I identified with so much of what you say, and how you feel. :)

Thanks for this. You're a great guy and this video will hopefully help people who are struggling with the idea of coming out. Honesty is always the best policy.

@71Daze, the only medal he wants is exactly the same one that a straight sportsman gets when he talks about his girlfriend or the hot chick he met last night.

In the US, we call the sport Field Hockey. Never knew why men here didn't play. It's associated only with females. Good ol' sexist USA. :/ But I love it!

Been through this myself. I know the pain and I know the freedom you can earn when you let the make believe chains of being gay fall from your shoulders.

Congratulations Gus - you simply are manifesting the strength from within. Your are inspiring. And our youth need good roles models. Good on you.

Ang Galing (sooo good) Now you are FREE. I hope that, from now on, you will live your life in freedom, not in fear. Mabuhay Ka! (Long Live)

glad you came out. Kudos and thanks! Every time an athlete comes out whether retired or not helps LGBT visibility and more understanding.

This could be the only video on the youtube where the comments are intelligent, sincere and worth reading. Brilliant work Gus. Peters.

Good for you comming out is a very personal experience your very good looking so protect yourself but be open to love and friends . I was very fortunate my husband said to me I'm not the best looking but I would love you the best I can so 35 years latter we are still monogamous relationship. Im so blessed I came out early in life 15 years old also being Japanese/American third generation. My husband is Caucasian from French English.

Thanks for sharing Dom, some very intelligent thoughts here. I particularly like the comments on the importance of perspective.

Gus, you're so eloquent in this video. It's really great that you've spoken out. Congratulations, because it will only do good.

Pero Vamos mas vale Tarde que Nunca y Gus Johnston es Guapisimo y es Comprensible que este Exjugador Profesional se haya Demorado y haber sabido esperar el Momento Indicado de Saber Reconocer su Homosexualidad. por que en Toda Disciplina Deportiva la Homofobia y Discriminacion es Desgarradoramente Cruel, por sus Mismos Compañeros de Deporte .

My utmost respect to you not only as an athlete but also as a human being, just like myself. Ex competitive swimmer and gay. =D

Thank you for that powerful testimony. It seems saying it out loud gave you a lot of room to breathe again =) Have a great life.

GOOD FOR YOU...PEOPLE NEED TO HEAR THIS MESSAGE...ESPECIALLY KIDS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD.....SALUDOS DESDE BOSTON USA.

How is that athletes in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK have the guts to come out, yet in the US all hear are crickets.

A truer word has never been spoken! Break down the walls of discrimination between different sexualities and stop the hate.

You are a hero, mate. We live in the same city and don't know each other but I wish we did. What a guy to look up to!

Congratulations on taking this big step forward. I wish you all the happiness you were missing in your life before...

Por favor sigo Sorprendido que este Video del año 2011 siga sin ser Subtitulado al Español y You tube sigue Ignorando Olimpicamente que tiene en Latinoamerica muchos Usuarios. Por que de Nada nos Sirve verlos si no nos Informamos de los Testimonio de sus Protagonistas. Yo lo vi hace 7 meses solo por ver a este Guapisimo Gus Johnston por que como Miembro de la Comunidad Homosexual me Gusta y Mucho que cada Dia salgan mas deportistas de esa Mentira en la que han sido Obligados a Vivir.

so brave and inspiring! hang in there Gus, it gets better ;-)... Thanx for your honesty! May everyone hear you.

I think everyone comes out on there on terms & time. It just takes time.. I'm just glad you got the strength & courage to do so. I came out at the age of 16. I'm 19 now & I look back & say to myself, why did I take so much time? It was because I simply wasn't ready. Physically or mentally. When I was cool keeper for my school soccer team I was openly gay. Thankfully no one gave me a hard time. But it's different for everybody. You're very brave & inspiring. Lots of love.. 👏🙌💪❤️

It is important to see it from those 15 and 16 year olds point of view....well said. Feel less afraid.

Much love to you friend!

Your video is fast making the rounds, Gus. Bravo. I'm in Vancouver. We're cheering you on. Dane

Well done Gus, we will always love you!!! Now go ahead and live your life :) Kerry and Nick

The world is (slowly) changing for the better because of courageous people like you Gus.

Thanks for showing strength and courage by taking time to make and post this video.....

A very thoughtful, well-spoken and profound video - Thank You Gus. You are my new hero!

Congratulations Gus , from France . You are inspiring ! Thank you . xxx Be well .

Bravo Sir, very well said, you are an inspiration thankyou for making this video

and other officers hating me and not coming to a call when i may need them.

God bless you sir and thank you for this inspiring vid. I believe things are getting better all the time at least here in the west. We must hope and pray that other parts of the world will eventually see the light and end their ignorance and hostility. As JC put it "love one another as I have loved you".

WAY TO GO GUS! We love you and so proud of the stand you take!!! :)

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. All the best for you.. Big hug from me. Loke - Denmark

Gus Johnston ;The reality of homophobia i sport Utube

Congratulations Gus -- you've lit another candle in the darkness.

Incredibly inspirational, congratulations on your courage.

Shared this on FB and in Denmark it got lots of likes :)

Very moving and important! You are beautifull and brave.

I hope recent years have been good for him.

You're a beautiful man, Gus. More power to you.

What a nice/great bloke.

felicidades Gus.....animo estamos contigo

Fine example of what it means to be a man!

@inkimuff Totally agree!! Well done Gus!!

SMASH HOMOPHOBIA NOW. NO TIME FOR HATE.

@hridland thanks for your support mate.

It requires too much strength, BRAVO

What a marvellous video. Thank you.