US college football player comes out as gay

American college football player Edward ‘Chip’ Sarafin has come out as gay.

Sarafin, a senior offensive lineman for Arizona State University, is believed to be the first active college football player to come out publicly. He already came out to his teammates last year, Sarafin revealed during an interview with gay sports magazine Compete.

“It was really personal for me, and it benefited my peace of mind greatly,” Sarafin said during the interview.

Sarafin’s coach, Todd Graham, said in a statement that the Arizona State University team have been supportive of Sarafin’s decision to come out as gay.

“Chip is a fifth-year senior and a Scholar Baller, a graduate and a master’s student,” Graham said. “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,” the coach added.

Out gay NFL (National Football League) player Michael Sam, who recently won an award for his bravery in coming out earlier this year, has since congratulated Sarafin on Twitter. See his tweet below.

Congratulations Chip Sarafin for having the courage to be yourself. Wishing you and your teammates much success this season. #courage2014

— Michael Sam (@MichaelSamNFL) August 13, 2014

Earlier this year, US student tennis star Matt Dooley came out as gay – click here for the full story.