Josh Cavallo, a midfielder for Adelaide United F.C. of Australias A-league, told the world a secret that he has been hiding his entire life. In a video posted to all of Adelaide’s social media pages, Cavallo came out as gay. He is now one of the only openly gay players around the world in a major soccer league.
“I don’t know what else to say,” Cavallo said at the beginning of the video before he began to open up about his past in the soccer community in Australia and how he always believed that he had to hide being gay. He was a star athlete but believed that because of who he was, he had to hide in order to make it to the next level of play. “There is something personal that I need to share with everyone. I’m a footballer and I’m gay. Growing up I always felt the need to hide myself because I was ashamed. Hiding who I truly am to pursue a dream that I always wished for as a kid,” he said. “All I want to do is play football and be treated equally.”
“I want to inspire and show people that it’s ok to be yourself and play football. It’s ok to be gay and play football. I want to show all the other people who are struggling and who are scared – whoever it may be – don’t act like someone your not, be yourself…. I am Josh Cavallo, I’m a footballer, and I’m proud to be gay.”
Professional soccer players from major leagues around the world have taken to social media and other platforms to applaud his courageousness and express their support. The 5-time Champions League-winning powerhouse FC Barcelona has paid tribute via Twitter along with their star defender Gerard Pique.
The 21-year-old Cavallo has recently made his way onto the first division side sporting the number 27. He seemingly has unlimited energy when running goal to goal in the midfield. The A-league kicks off in late November and Adelaide United will hope to improve from last season after posting fifth in the table.
