Arizona State senior offensive lineman Edward "Chip" Sarafin has come out as gay, the school's athletic department confirmed after it was reported on Wednesday through a local magazine for gay sports.
He became the first active college football player to come out to the public, and followed in the footsteps of St. Louis Rams linebacker Michael Sam, who came out publicly following the conclusion of his collegiate career at Missouri.
Sarafin, who denied an interview request with USA TODAY Sports, told the Phoenix-based magazine for gay sports, Compete, of his sexual orientation in a nonchalant manner and said he told his teammates last spring.
"It was really personal for me, and it benefited my peace of mind greatly," he said in the magazine.
"We are a brotherhood that is not defined by cultural and personal differences, but rather an individual's commitment to the Sun Devil Way," ASU coach Todd Graham said in a statement. "Chip is a fifth-year senior and a Scholar Baller, a graduate and a master's student. His commitment to service is unmatched and it is clear he is on his way to leading a successful life after his playing career, a goal that I have for every student-athlete. Diversity and acceptance are two of the pillars of our program, and he has full support from his teammates and the coaching staff."
Read news at: USA Today.
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