Gus Johnston: The reality of homophobia in sport

After many years of competing in hockey at an elite level, I've decided to share my story and experience with homophobia in sport. It's taken me many years to find the strength to share it, but I hope that people find value in hearing it. You can contact me here: [e-mail] Or follow me here: / gusjohnston

[@seasidecharles]

Hi Gus, I sat here & watched the video, & my eyes were swimming in tears. What a powerful & wonderful gesture of yours, to share this. You have done what I want to do, but have not yet got up the courage to do. This is so difficult for me, as I am generally not the most 'sharing' person anyway but at the same time, I feel a pressure building in me to tell someone. With an example like this video, maybe I will go for it, and tell. Thanks so much Gus. You don't know how much good this has done.

[@tomharidonuk]

Got to this video via the Ben Cohen site. Deeply moving, honest and heartfelt. You must feel like the weight of the world has been taken off your shoulders. This message will make a difference to someone out there. It's great to see professional athletes coming out in greater numbers (even retired ones). And great to have straight guys like Ben standing up against bullying. Love to you both.

[@JimHinCO]

Thank you, Gus. Appreciate your honesty, courage, and story. Much love - Jim, Colorado Springs, CO.

[@olawi100]

Thanks for showing strength and courage by taking time to make and post this video.....

[@jasonwojnicz]

Thank you Sir for this video. This must have been very difficult to make and then to release it. I hope that you continue to find successes in your life's labors, as well let in the love and support that surrounds you. You are an inspiration as person with such strength in character to be so honest about who you are. Cheers

[@budgielaw49]

Hi Gus. I saw you at the IDAHO breakfast this morning at Preston Oval and was impressed by your courage and your story and my wife and I viewed your clip when we got home. Inspirational stuff and a message that we will take back to our sporting club. Thanks not just to you but also to Ben, Daniel and Caroline for your insight.

[@ricfogg]

Dear Gus, I am embarrassed to have come across your story and this video only recently. This is the single most honest and powerful coming-out statement I have ever heard. Please do not feel any regret for not being strong or brave enough to have done it while you were still playing hockey. You have courage that most of us will never have. You are a true inspiration - my hero.

[@TheSuperGirly]

Excellent video Gus. Congratulations on the courage and honesty you have shared with us. I know there are a lot of people out there that will watch this and relate to it. It's very inspiring. :)

[@luiisnavii]

I think everyone comes out on there on terms & time. It just takes time.. I'm just glad you got the strength & courage to do so. I came out at the age of 16. I'm 19 now & I look back & say to myself, why did I take so much time? It was because I simply wasn't ready. Physically or mentally. When I was cool keeper for my school soccer team I was openly gay. Thankfully no one gave me a hard time. But it's different for everybody. You're very brave & inspiring. Lots of love.. 👏🙌💪❤️

[@gezisthescientist]

The world is (slowly) changing for the better because of courageous people like you Gus.

[@meandmymouth]

God bless you sir and thank you for this inspiring vid. I believe things are getting better all the time at least here in the west. We must hope and pray that other parts of the world will eventually see the light and end their ignorance and hostility. As JC put it "love one another as I have loved you".

[@inkimuff]

This is the most honest thing I've seen in a long time. Well done and I'm sure it'll be inspirational to many people.

[@PrezBen99]

I second most of the comments here. I share a very similar journey and can appreciate what you are saying on a very personal level. Only thing I would add is don't regret decisions you couldn't make at the time. Life is far to short for regrets and each journey is in our own way and our own time. You are brave, caring, compassionate and your parents couldn't ask for a better son who has become a great man.

[@DrWhoTorchwood3]

Good on you, Gus! I'm just watching you on 7:30. You're a great inspiration to so many people. Thank you for this incredible message.

[@RCSVirginia]

I just watched this again after three years, and it is still impressive. Well done, Gus. I have put this on my "Coming Out As Gay" KZbin Playlist, and I just hope that a great many more people will see this. I especially hope that everyone in athletics and all the people of Australia will view your video.

[@ballzofiron1]

You're a gorgeous man, a gorgeous mind, and a true legend. Loved your article in The Age, and looked this up. So glad I did! And love the Russian subtitles. Very nice touch!

[@ImmortalSynn]

You're such an obviously beautiful man on the outside, and now you're proving to be an amazingly beautiful man on the inside. Good for you Gus! I'm sure you'll be an inspiration to others who might be facing the same situation as you. Thanks for sharing.

[@chinchify]

your speech was inspiring today, thank you for taking the time to encourage us all to live our own lives free of others expectations

[@siwi666]

what a wonderful man. You should finally feel great relief and I wish you the greatest happiness in your life. Go forward and find that man you so deserve (if you haven't already found him). Anyone would be very lucky to be with you.

[@nailedwit]

Your video is fast making the rounds, Gus. Bravo. I'm in Vancouver. We're cheering you on. Dane

[@mikontisott]

I hope you are happy now Gus, you have no time to regret, you survived and that is the single most important thing you did. Look forward to the beautiful future you deserve and have definitely earned. Thanks for this video, but no regrets!!! OK??? xxx

[@mickbakos]

Incredibly brave and beautiful video mate. I am truly inspired, and I have no doubt your experience and honesty will be comforting and reassuring to many in a similar position. Good on you Gus. Mick Bakos

[@meghanbray-anctil6431]

Big hug for you Gus Johnston!

[@gusjohnston1]

The big variety are always the best kind.

[@meghanbray-anctil6431]

:)

[@suvariboy]

Thanks for this. You're a great guy and this video will hopefully help people who are struggling with the idea of coming out. Honesty is always the best policy.

[@andrewbaggs]

Thanks for sharing Dom, some very intelligent thoughts here. I particularly like the comments on the importance of perspective.

[@Slappingplastic]

I watched this a while ago but I came back to it after Malcolm Turnbull gave a shout out to the Bingham Cup. I'm glad you are visible.

[@rustyspo0ns]

Thank you for that powerful testimony. It seems saying it out loud gave you a lot of room to breathe again =) Have a great life.

[@tjohannson]

Gus, thankyou, thankyou. You're a great inspiration to all of us who might have ever struggled with our sexuality, within a sporting context or beyond. This video shows you to be a brave, honest, humble and wise person. All power to your and your message.

[@robertharvey35]

Awesome Gus. Very well spoken, great videography and of course a powerful message. Especially for people like me who were probably more on the other side of the fence, finding entertainment in teasing others who were different. Enjoying getting a laugh by teasing people like "Angus the red-head kid". I'm stoked that you have found the power to be true to yourself and share your story to hopefully make a difference.

[@nevillejd]

thankyou - inspirational. I was 46 before I was brave enough to come out. Homophobia wrecks so many lives. I identified with so much of what you say, and how you feel. :)

[@KARTONVERDE]

GOOD FOR YOU...PEOPLE NEED TO HEAR THIS MESSAGE...ESPECIALLY KIDS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD.....SALUDOS DESDE BOSTON USA.

[@EricCVoice]

Great story and wonderful courage Gus!

[@Lexiy76]

Thank you for doing this. It took a lot of courage to do this and please know that I am sure it will help many people. Not only those who need to know that they are not alone, but those who need to learn that anyone can be gay. You've done a great thing with this, please don't listen to any of the negative junk that will come your way. Your amazing, and I just wish I could give you a big hug! Thanks again.

[@iVaN88306]

Es dificil ser realmente como eres, por que las personas te dicen como debes ser aún que no quieras; pero es más difíl y doloroso permitirlo. Esta en nuestras manos no dejar que los demas nos digan como ser. Bien por Gus, me da un ejemplo y me anima a admitir y aseptarme como soy, que gusto que existan hombres como él, que gusto!

[@davbalfr]

Congratulations Gus , from France . You are inspiring ! Thank you . xxx Be well .

[@johnw47]

This truly is inspirational - and wonderful. I am so impressed. THANK YOU.

[@garthtw]

You are a hero, mate. We live in the same city and don't know each other but I wish we did. What a guy to look up to!

[@andrewwing7888]

Thanks Gus Thank you for being so honest You’re an inspiration Cheers!

[@kivinen1]

Gus, you're so eloquent in this video. It's really great that you've spoken out. Congratulations, because it will only do good.

[@Boltron110]

I like watching videos like this, because it lets me see what other people are going through. I am gay, but luckily I didn't have this issue with coming out. Everything fell into place perfectly for me when coming out, and it made my senior year of high school the best year of my life. I was around really great friends who loved me for me, and everyone I told was willing to defend me if others had an issue. I am sorry that people have to go through this; it does get better. Phenomenal job, Gus.

[@councilgritter]

Incredibly inspirational, congratulations on your courage.

[@kirkpyke]

Congratulations Gus - you simply are manifesting the strength from within. Your are inspiring. And our youth need good roles models. Good on you.

[@gusjohnston1]

Good on you Garth. Every single one of us is empowered to be a role model for others. We all underestimate our influence. The impact we can have on the lives of those around us is immeasurably, whether we choose to make that a positive or negative impact, is entirely our choice. Have a great day.

[@MeowCat1986]

Congratulations on taking this big step forward. I wish you all the happiness you were missing in your life before...

[@gusjohnston1]

Much love to you friend!

[@regemo]

Good message! Wish there were more.

[@CourteneyBoulter]

Well done Gus, an inspiring effort. Portrays the exact message I've been trying to get across to my year 8 sex ed class who are having difficulty grasping the idea that sexuality is not a choice, as well as society's expectations and inequalities etc. Excited to show them your video today! Hopefully it will open their eyes a little hearing such a personal and first-hand experience Thanks! :)

[@chaallus]

A very thoughtful, well-spoken and profound video - Thank You Gus. You are my new hero!

[@gusjohnston1]

@MunfyKun Be strong in the knowledge that thousands, if not millions, of people across the globe would stand tall and proud with you my friend. You are not alone. You are not a lesser man. And there is hope. Because you have the strength and courage to continue forward. I know the 39,000 people who have watched my story would echo my sentiments and send you their support.

[@CODIGODHARMA]

felicidades Gus.....animo estamos contigo

[@AwkiesBarinas]

What a marvellous video. Thank you.

[@Nikoxtiger]

so brave and inspiring! hang in there Gus, it gets better ;-)... Thanx for your honesty! May everyone hear you.

[@Orlman40]

I am so lucky to be living in a society that finally starts realizing sexuality is not what define us as individuals. I cannot even begin to explain how of a positive impact on our society the coming out of all these more or less famous men has. Thank you.

[@PluckySmurf]

Gus, I had never heard of you before today, but I just want to reiterate what others here are saying: you are brave and insightful and beautiful. Leave all your regrets behind you. You do untold good with this video. Your time is now. To regret it wasn't yesterday is an unfair expectation of yourself. Much love from Canada!

[@KeenerDude]

@gusjohnston1 I just find your story so inspiring and i can relate a lot of my life to yours in many ways... it's funny, I also play goalie, (ice hockey but still lol), i just hope i can be brave enough to let the world know who i truly am as you did, this video just spoke to me in so many ways, i really appreciate you sharing your story with us and i wish you the best! :)

[@JasonTurner1975]

The truth is you're human and you're a genuine first class gentleman. Possibly more of a man this most, Why did it take me 2-3 years to see this? Better now than never. Thank you Gus sir.

[@gusjohnston1]

So sorry for my delayed reply. Your kind words don't go unnoticed nor unappreciated. I'm glad you found some value in my story.

[@JasonTurner1975]

It pleases me to know that I've returned the kindness you bestowed upon all who listen (and watch), myself included. Stay true to you Gus.

[@ortem000]

Better late than never Gus. I commend you for vocalizing your truth.

[@glennglensound]

This could be the only video on the youtube where the comments are intelligent, sincere and worth reading. Brilliant work Gus. Peters.

[@ctshabbadu]

You're a beautiful man, Gus. More power to you.

[@alexisvista]

Ang Galing (sooo good) Now you are FREE. I hope that, from now on, you will live your life in freedom, not in fear. Mabuhay Ka! (Long Live)

[@nounoulala23]

YOU ARE JUST AWESOME

[@tcith]

Bravo Sir, very well said, you are an inspiration thankyou for making this video

[@gusjohnston1]

@hridland thanks for your support mate.

[@captainKbobkeeshan]

glad you came out. Kudos and thanks! Every time an athlete comes out whether retired or not helps LGBT visibility and more understanding.

[@oofahman]

WAY TO GO GUS! We love you and so proud of the stand you take!!! :)

[@Stumpydalts]

I quit playing Hockey in my early 20's for the same reason, I even changed teams once and played at a lower grade to avoid the homophobia to no avail. Then about 5 years later I was welcomed into the Melbourne Uni Hockey Club were there was no issues at all. I was just one of the team. Thank You Melbourne Uni Hockey Club, Tim and Jason Go Shoppers. "It Does Get Better."

[@tristharris]

Fantastic words, Gus.

[@jairoantoniomendez5506]

Pero Vamos mas vale Tarde que Nunca y Gus Johnston es Guapisimo y es Comprensible que este Exjugador Profesional se haya Demorado y haber sabido esperar el Momento Indicado de Saber Reconocer su Homosexualidad. por que en Toda Disciplina Deportiva la Homofobia y Discriminacion es Desgarradoramente Cruel, por sus Mismos Compañeros de Deporte .

[@plasticizedthemovie]

love the positivity! m~

[@Gryzor88]

It's wonderful to see you being comfortable with yourself and compassionate about people who go through the same ordeal. I feel gutted, hearing people were close to taking their own life, because of socially and religiously imposed constraints. The throwing up metaphor for coming out is so meaningful, because you finally refute and vomit all the unfounded criticism, hatred, bigotry and disgrace, that's been forced down your throat.

[@kgvander]

Hang in there Gus! And Thank you.

[@NeBBeN22]

So inspirational!

[@danielewenkhare3600]

I LOVE YOU 😘 😍 Gus Johnston for your bravery and courage to share your story, as a gay man myself I have been through similar things like you

[@philipferguson8570]

What a nice/great bloke.

[@16kt888]

Great work !! takes guts !!

[@Nicosixteen]

Very moving and important! You are beautifull and brave.

[@OfficerHollaway92]

You are a brave man, if only i could be the same as you and many others. Maybe one day but idk it’s tough i find it one of the hardest things ever, and i’m gonna be a Police Officer soon that alone says a lot with my caparison. I’m 20 gonna be 21 soon and i just feel i will lose everything more some my family then friends, but the thing is i’m the best person to help other people out and they can come to me for anything. Also i don’t want being what i am to effect being a police officer.

[@utxex97]

Gus, You shouldn't beat yourself up for the past. What you do now & in the future is what's more important. And what you're doing now is a great thing. Someone who is as introspective, well-spoken, & attractive as you will go far in the world. Best wishes.

[@ShatteredSlowly]

Fantastic !

[@lexlib]

just awesome.

[@betterthangod]

You're a very brave man.

[@kjjgsimens]

It is important to see it from those 15 and 16 year olds point of view....well said. Feel less afraid.

[@fed171]

me encantaría que el vídeo este subtitulado ya que me costo entender algunas cosas . pero de igual manera te deseo toda la suerte del mundo.

[@fairies1969]

Imagine someone 100 years or more in the future coming across this video and wondering why we as people from the past needed to even debate or make videos about acceptance because they have never know homophobia and discrimination. I really do hope that our future generations never ever ever ever have to be subject to such hatred and discrimination and that the world has finally united as one and has stopped the them and us attitudes of current day society. As for you Gus, I thankyou. Xo

[@ProdmanP]

Well done Gus, very impressive.

[@preagle60657]

Kudos to you, Mr. Johnston. Welcome to the rest of your life... by that I mean no longer living behind that wall of lies, so to speak. Thank you for your strength and courage. Oh, and never apologize for being ginger. Some of us like the red. Good on ya, as they say.

[@unchico555]

It requires too much strength, BRAVO

[@amyeastham9484]

Thank You Gus - Need I say more :)

[@TheVeganicWitch]

Good on you Gus, I know it's not easy but it's this kind of bravery that propels society forward! :D

[@ohianjo]

Great video.

[@angelaflangela]

Proud of you Gus!

[@penlinemega]

Good on you!

[@teaspooner]

Brilliant!

[@lokeodense]

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. All the best for you.. Big hug from me. Loke - Denmark

[@aaaally1]

Well done Gus, we will always love you!!! Now go ahead and live your life :) Kerry and Nick

[@Eltoca21]

Thanks Gus...

[@Cardhu56]

Speaking as a straight married man and dad, may Gus and everyone else struggling in the midst of bigotry find friends, family, and love that accepts you as the person you are. For you are persons fully deserving of a happy and fulfilling life among welcoming community as anyone else.

[@shelm]

Congratulations Gus -- you've lit another candle in the darkness.

[@candidnot]

I understand that it can be difficult for anybody and for someone who is in the public eye, to come out and live openly. That said, when people who are highly visible due to sports, or any field really, come out, that shows that LGBTIQ people are capable of doing many great things, and can live productive and successful lives, a valuable message for youth who are struggling with their own identities. I wish that had been available to me when I was young. Congrats for stepping up and out..

[@tpriddle15]

@adamdbarty I concur.