Out MLS Player Finds Outpouring of Support

From Outsports:

In the the aftermath of a big news story, Twitter is a great first-read on how people are seeing an event. With pro soccer player Robbie Rogers announcing he is gay and stepping away from the game, Twitter was abuzz with reaction and it was universally supportive.  “Thank you everyone for all of the support and love. Wasn’t expecting this,” Rogers wrote in his first tweet since coming out.

“Welcome to the family.”
–Lori Lindsey, openly lesbian member of the U.S. Women’s National Team

“100 percent love and support for one of my best friends Robbie Rogers. You will be missed on the pitch. Amazing talent, amazing person.”
–Sacha Kljestan, member of U.S. Men’s National Team

“Fully support @robbierogers as he steps away from the game and comes out about being gay. #respect”
–Taylor Twellman, ESPN soccer analyst and former pro soccer player

“Extremely proud of the courage from @robbierogers. Truth is not always easy to display, but truly strong people always find a way #RESPECT”

–Oguchi Onyewu, U.S. national team member

“The courage @robbierogers has shown coming out is of the class most men can only dream of. I was lucky to call him a teammate. I hope his bravery helps pave a path for others to know they don’t need to hide.”

–Colin Clark, Los Angeles Galaxy player

It is very heartening to see the soccer world rally around Rogers and show their support. My personal hope is that he finds his way back to the pitch where he can be an inspiration to up-and-coming LGBT athletes who may be conflicted about playing their respective sports and being out.