Sporting Heroes Month: Michael Sam

Presented in association with MaxiNutrition.

Today in Sporting Heroes Month, we’re celebrating a true gay sports pioneer: the man-mountain that is NFL-turned-CFL player Michael Sam. Just last week, Sam signed a two-year contract with Montreal Alouettes of the CFL. The signing made him the first openly gay player in that league’s history. Take a look…

Top Sporting Achievement: He racked up 10.5 sacks and 18 tackles for loss to help Mizzou go 11-2, win the Southeastern Conference’s East Division championship, earning him multiple awards for his efforts.

Better Half: Michael is currently engaged to his college sweetheart, Vito Cammisano, which also made him the first openly gay American football player in the public eye.

Best Attribute: His arms.

Sporting Quote: “The goal was to win. Whatever I can do to help my team win I was going to do.”

Special Weapon: According to the NFL, Michael has “outstanding weight-room strength – can squat a small house.”

Style: Michael is known for his preppy and casual style. The Michael Sam NFL jersey has outsold any other player in 2015, regardless of Michael never playing a NFL game before.

Training Tip: Michael competed in Dancing with the Stars and said that the show helped him keep fit, stating, “Dancing with the Stars is helping me be in the best shape of my life.”

In The Game: American football defensive end.

Wins: Played all 13 games in 2011 and collected 29-3-1-1.5 with an interception. In 2013, Michael started 9 out of 12 games and was credited with a 22-7-4.5 with two forced fumbles. Was the SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2013.

Attitude: “I do believe I’m a very talented football player and I’m going to continue on working hard and trying to get that opportunity to play in the league.”