ASU Offensive Lineman Chip Sarafin Announces He's Gay - East Idaho News
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ASU Offensive Lineman Chip Sarafin Announces He’s Gay

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10 6 13%20Notre%20Dame%20A?  SQUARESPACE CACHEVERSION=1408020777274iStockphoto(NEW YORK) — Arizona State offensive lineman Chip Sarafin told Compete Magazine that he is gay.

Sarafin becomes the first openly gay player in Division I football and told the magazine that former Missouri defensive lineman Michael Sam, who is currently fighting for a roster spot on the St. Louis Rams, inspired him to no longer hide his sexuality.

“It was really personal to me and it benefited my peace of mind greatly,” Sarafin told the mag — a Tempe, Arizona-based LGBT sports publication — of revealing his sexual orientation to teammates this past spring.

Sam, who continues to impress his teammates and head coach Jeff Fisher, sent his own message to Sarafin.

“Congratulations Chip Sarafin for having the courage to be yourself. Wishing you and your teammates much success this season. #courage2014,” Sam tweeted on Wednesday.

ASU head coach Todd Graham also had positive words for his player. “We are a brotherhood that is not defined by cultural and personal differences, but rather an individual’s commitment to the Sun Devil Way,” he 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.”

Sarafin has spent most of his time as a reserve offensive lineman and has yet to play in a game.


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