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There Are More Openly Gay Players In College Football Than Ever Before

Meet the six players erasing the stigma of being a gay athlete.

There was a time, not so long ago, when coming out meant the end of an athletic career. Thankfully, young gay athletes are finding more acceptance from teammates, coaches and administrators.

According to OutSports, as we head into the 2017 season there are six openly gay men in college football. That's a record number, and could mean more representation in the NFL.

Meet these out athletes below.

Scott Frantz

ESPN

This Kansas State Wildcats offensive tackle came out earlier this summer, telling ESPN, "I’ve never felt so loved and so accepted ever in my life."

Wyatt Pertuset

A wide receiver for Capital University, Pertuset came out in high school, where he was the captain of his football team. His message to closeted athletes is that coming out will be the "most relieving experience you’ll ever come to terms with."

Xavier Colvin

Butler Bulldogs linebacker Xavier Colvin came out to his teammates and coaches in a heartfelt speech. "Seeing other people come out and be okay with being themselves made me realize I could be okay with being myself," he told OutSports.

My-King Johnson

Arizona defensive lineman My-King Johnson has been out of the closet since he was 12.

“I’m a very honest person,” he told AZCentral. “I just don’t see how I could be living an honest, truthful life and have that in the background.”

Kyle Kurdziolek

This University of St. Francis linebacker was inspired to come out by Michael Sam. A practicing Catholic, he says his initial fears were unfounded, as he received overwhelming support from family and teammates.

Darrion McAlister

Marian University center Darrion McAlister came out in an article for the Indianapolis Star earlier this year, insisting he couldn't carry the burden of keeping his life a secret. Now a senior, McAlister says he hasn't receieved a single negative reaction from the news.

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