Twitter screenshot
Former player of the iconic All Black, Campbell Johnstone is coming out on New Zealand television, hoping to “prevent the stigma around these issues” in the world of the oval ball.
RUGBY – It’s a gesture that has been hailed by many voices in world rugby. The old pillar of All BlacksCampbell Johnstone revealed his homosexuality on New Zealand television this Monday, January 30. This is a first for the iconic national team of rugby crowned three times in the World Cup.
The 43-year-old pillar, three selections in 2005, had already told his family and close friends before choosing to come out on the One News channel of the TVNZ network. “If I can be the first All Black to come out as gay and help prevent the stigma around these issues, it can help other people. Everyone will know there is one among the All Blacks”declared the former player passed in particular by the Olympic Biarritz between 2008 and 2012.
“If I can be the first All Black to come out as gay and take the pressure and stigma out of… https://t.co/a5O8QCv7We
— The Festive Roosters (@lescoqsfestifs)
“This could be one of the last pieces of the (public) acceptance jigsaw for New Zealand sport and it could be a vital piece that will allow everyone to move on.” he added again.
The former professional player also spoke on his Instagram account, reiterating his message of inclusivity: “ Really happy to take this step. I also hope to help open the door for anyone who might be struggling in this space. “.
“A more inclusive game” thanks to him
And the messages of support were quick to come, hailing the courageous speech of the former New Zealand international. The All Blacks praised his public initiative on Instagram, mentioning his national team player number 1056. “Lots of love and support for All Black #1056 Campbell Johnstone for having the courage to share his story and help create a more inclusive game”can we read on the account of the men in black.
Much love and support for All Black #1056 Campbell Johnstone for having the courage to share his story and helping… https://t.co/oS3IUMZGEP
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks)
WorldRugbythe equivalent of Fifa in the world of ovality, also welcomed this historic gesture for New Zealand rugby by relaying part of its statement.
“I’m also hoping to help open the door for anyone struggling in this space” ❤️ Former All Blacks prop Campbell Joh… https://t.co/lNqEmZHHY4
—World Rugby (@WorldRugby)
” Your strength and visibility will pave the way for other sportsmen here in Aotearoa (the Maori name for the New Zealand) And in the world “, Applauded for its part the New Zealand Rugby Federation in a tweet.
Arohanui Campbell Johnstone All Black #1056 – your strength and visibility will pave the way for others in sport he… https://t.co/TBWtCXlUtP
— New Zealand Rugby (@NZRugby)
As for federation president Mark Robinson, who is also one of Johnstone’s former teammates, he said in a statement that “ Johnstone’s strength and visibility will pave the way for others in our game. We know people have not always been comfortable being who they are in rugby. We want to be clear: no matter who you love, rugby is here for you.”.
Another notable reaction was that of Grant Robertson, New Zealand Sports Minister and former Deputy Prime Minister. He wanted to thank the ex-rugby player for having “leading the way” on this subjecteven considering this announcement as ” a big moment “. Himself a homosexual, he believes that“another barrier has been broken” with this public speaking.
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