Rugby videos of tackles, tries, funny incidents and more: Gareth Thomas hopes to change views on the gay stereotype

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Gareth Thomas hopes to change views on the gay stereotype

Stories travel fast in sporting circles, and while many of us may have heard the rumours a while back, Gareth Thomas publicly admitted the truth about his sexuality this past weekend.

Thomas, capped over 100 times for Wales and former captain of the British & Irish Lions, is the epitome of masculinity. Big, strong, and anything but pretty, he's managed to fool everyone for years as he slotted into the role of your typical male rugby player.

In his own words, he became a 'master of disguise' as he learnt who to like, what to say, and how to react to the usual banter that goes on amongst the macho male rugby fraternity.

Plunged into a state of anxiety and depression, and having split up with his wife, he's now come forward to tell his story, in the hope that others will realise that there's nothing to be ashamed of.

One of the top referees in rugby, Nigel Owens, announced that he's gay a few years back, and has since found that his career hasn't been tarnished in the slightest from it. He feels that Thomas will be pleasantly surprised at how few people actually consider it an issue.

"I can understand why it is big news because he's the first professional rugby player to come out but as far as people are concerned it's just a case of 'so what, let's just get on with it'.

"It comes with a bit of a taboo, still, that you will be known as 'the gay rugby player', probably as I am known now as 'the gay referee'.

"It certainly has died down but there's still that bit of stigma that you can expect from certain people.

"But as far as the rugby community goes as a whole, I'm sure he will be very pleasantly surprised, like I was, that you're able to just get on with it," he added.

Thomas, now 35, has appreciated the positive response from the majority of fans so far.

"I just want to thank everyone for the amazing response I have received, on behalf of me, my family and friends. I hope that by saying this I can make a big difference to others in my situation. But for now, I just want to focus on being a rugby player."

Thomas is a Welsh legend, and a rugby player first and foremost. Highly respected already, this difficult decision that he's made will hopefully change the attitudes of many when it comes to accepting that one can be gay and not only play rugby, but achieve great things in it.

In this interview clip, we've included a nice try that he scored against Edinburgh for Cardiff a few months back, as it wasn't shown on the site at the time.

Thomas is a big supporter of Childline in the UK, who you can contact if you ever need to discuss anything that's troubling you. You can call 0800 1111 free of charge, or visit their website at www.childline.org.uk

Time: 02:35
More info: We posted this story, in more detail, here a few days back.
Full interview: You can watch the in-depth, 28 minute interview with Thomas here.

a person in ireland recently did that in GAA... still fair f***s to him for doin it

By b, at December 22, 2009 1:01 pm
Nice try there. Great player, and tbh pretty awesome that he's showing the narrow minded that people can be gay, and still tough as sh*t!

All the best Alfie

By FrankyH, at December 22, 2009 1:02 pm
nigel owens is pretty tough too. As was proven when Brian Mujati gave him a nice shove from behind and nigel took it.

By cyclone, at December 22, 2009 1:03 pm
I hope he won't be attacked and raped by an angry mob =S

- Ivan Borokov

By Ivan, at December 22, 2009 1:06 pm
Now imagine a group of high profile players having group sex with some random female.

The media and governing bodies would be up in arms, slandering the sport as sexist. Slandering our players for engaging in perfectly acceptacle consentual sex. Probably suspending said players for their 'unacceptable behaviour'.

But when a man puts his willy in another mans bum the overtly PC media praise this as if it's some sort of amazing achievment.

I don't want to know about Gareth Thomas abhorrent sexual activities.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 1:31 pm
And there goes Blue Bull, proving Thomas's point. No issues here with him making it public this way, in his own words; unless and until he did, it makes things extremely difficult for his friends and especially his family.

I too had heard the rumour, but shrugged it off as typical 6N fan-baiting. The sad thing is that this sort of a rumour is taken as a slur, we'll only know if we have really made progress when the slur aspect goes.

Hopefully this will give other gay sportsmen the assurance that they don't need to remain in the closet, and it would be great if rugby fans could set an example to other sports.

By Edbok, at December 22, 2009 1:34 pm
I've always liked Thomas... Profile of a bouncer with a positive attitude.
I remember this one time when he played for Toulouse... where Michalak was being interviewed.
Gareth coming out of the shower, starring at the camera, droppping his towel so that he'd have his big white ass on national television ^^
All of ST was cracking up...

As for the rest I couldn't care less. I just hope he won't get the same shite the last guy in my team got by coming out... stoopid idiotic comments as he was a hooker... I'll let you imagine all the stupidity off and on the pitch.

By jay, at December 22, 2009 1:37 pm
What would be great is if people refused to accept the femenanisation of the male species and actually forced the government and industries to stop poisoning us with chemicals and toxins that genetically alter us.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 1:37 pm
i thought there was an aussie bout 15 years ago who announced he was gay, there quite a fuss about it ? or am i wrong.

Gareth says HE is breaking the stereotype by coming out but he has now retired. to do what he says one or more active players will need to 'out' themselves. like Nigel Owens he is an active international ref,

By mat, at December 22, 2009 1:59 pm
when i say retired i mean from international, he is in the autumn of his career now, but still can produce some great play on the field for the blues.

great player

By mat, at December 22, 2009 2:03 pm
So Christopher, sex between 1 woman and several men is consensual, while 2 gay men 'rutting' is abhorrent.

Lets take a look at what you've said and try and break it down.

Now I like sex, I don't get as much as I'd like, but I've never thought about having group sex with my best friends and 1 woman. The dilemma of seeing mates in action and the chances of ''crossing swords'' is a bit too much for me, I'm not as strong as you, evidently.

Now, consider the image of group sex, can you picture it there Chris, bet you like it. All those guys taking 1 woman, just as God had intended. Which do you think is more homoerotic? And although I've never tried it, I'm sure there is more to 'gay sex' than 'when a man puts his willy in another mans bum', just as there is to heterosexual sex.

And regarding you're post, you seem to have a short memory as a similar incident happened involving members of the English team in NZ with 1 girl in '08 and that raised little or no fuse once the sexual assault charge was withdrawn.

Oh, and no matter how much you'd like to believe otherwise, homosexuals have the same genetic makeup as you. Governments can't have a gay agenda because all governments want population increase, leading to higher workforce and more tax generation. Now, I don't want to ruin your parents' chance to tell you about the birds and the bees, but a 'gay' people doesn't lead to increased population. I think you'll find it has something to do with biology.

By Huh!! the 3rd, at December 22, 2009 2:20 pm
Sexuality has nothing to do with rugby.

Why is it such a big deal that a player is gay? I don't honestly see what's so important about it or why it's been so hyped up for good or bad! it's like someone saying i'm not a natural blonde - who cares! Just play rugby!

By Mike, at December 22, 2009 2:28 pm
And to the poster who mentioned Obama, out of the 2 nominees for the US president, McCain was the more liberal candidate and Obama conservative, but because of party lines, they each had to change their stance in public, thats why McCain lost and because he's the same party as Dubya. As a Junior Senator Obama voted against bills for same sex legislation while McCain was always at the forefront of gay rights.

Obama might be the leader of the free world, but he still has to listen to elements in the Democratic Party which has been for gay rights for years.

By Huh!! the 3rd, at December 22, 2009 2:29 pm
well done gareth. if read his story, he has lived through his wifes miscarriages, his own freak illness and being gay but not being able to tell anyone, let alone his wife (who fully supports him)

its up to the rugby community to support him, show the core values of our sport.

ps. Blue bulls bloke - if the media wants the air time, hes got every right to accept it.

If he lined you up on the pitch, would you be thinking less of him because hes gay?

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 2:31 pm
So Christopher, sex between 1 woman and several men is consensual, while 2 gay men 'rutting' is abhorrent.

.........

The point was not the two acts themselfs but the media reaction to the 2 acts.

Homosexuality, which IS a genetic flaw is treated by the PC happy media as something to celebrate. While any non regular male on female sex is absolutely shunned.

Understand?

I suggest you research the scientific evidence that proves the male sex in almost every species is under serious attack from chemicals and dangerous toxins. The feminisation of the human species has been well documented.

Homosexuals ARE genetically different to straight men. This has been proven by the scientific community.

But you go ahead eating food pumped with chemicals, poisoning yourself and deforming your future children.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 2:33 pm
Firstly I eat organic food, and never touch fatty prepackaged shit, I also don't drink coffee or alcohol which are two of the biggest inhibitors to thought, concentration and opinion. Secondly because of cancer I won't be having children, but because of my extreme views on society I wouldn't be bringing people into this world anyway.

I'd like you to link this 'scientific evidence' for me to read, I find that interesting since my ignorance has blinded me to reason. Then maybe we can meet up in a motel somewhere for some proper science experiments.

By Huh!! the 3rd, at December 22, 2009 2:45 pm
"I'd like you to link this 'scientific evidence' for me to read, I find that interesting since my ignorance has blinded me to reason. Then maybe we can meet up in a motel somewhere for some proper science experiments."

...........

RD removed the links I posted.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/its-official-men-really-are-the-weaker-sex-1055688.html

http://yubanet.com/scitech/Widespread-Feminization-of-Male-Wildlife-Raises-the-Alarm.php

http://blogs.discovery.com/animal_news/2009/09/feminized-fish-abundant-in-american-rivers.html

http://earthfirst.com/men-endangered-pollution-causing-males-to-become-feminized/

http://www.thespec.com/News/Local/article/479223

http://www.dailysciencedose.com/water-pollution-is-making-men-less-fertile/

http://employmentlawpost.com/theword/2009/12/01/fish-pollution-and-the-man-gene/

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 2:50 pm
IN MY VILLAGE WE bazooka his stomach out !!!

By krzyzstoff, at December 22, 2009 2:50 pm
Gareth thomas is still amazing :) no doubt about that. whether he's gay or not doesn't matter; he's representing the majority who're afraid to speak up.

great job. (Y)

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 2:53 pm
it doesn't help gay people. it shows he was scared before

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 2:53 pm
Chris, I've copied them and will read them henceforth.

By Huh!! the 3rd, at December 22, 2009 2:54 pm
You also shouldn't drink tap water, 3rd.

Also boil all your vegetables and make sure your meat is produced locally and you know what they're fed. Big corporations lie.

Easier to become a vegetarian. Getting safe meat is practically impossible. Plus, it's more ethical. Killing an animal because you enjoy the taste is pretty gay.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 2:58 pm
Also anyone with children should avoid giving them meat full stop.

Unless you want your daughter pregnant before she hits her teens and your son unable to reproduce later on in life.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 2:59 pm
Christopher - please read the actual report and not the 'PC media' which inevitably picks the best headline-grabbing phrases.

Once you do, you'll see there's nothing about the whole world turning gay. While the report is interesting, it's full of qualifying statements about sample sizes and more funding required which limit how much you can read into its findings. Conflicting reports are also quoted.

Posting 7 different links which reference the same report does make your point any more valid

http://www.chemtrust.org.uk/documents/WildlifeUnderThreat08fullrepFINAL.pdf

By jackohos, at December 22, 2009 3:21 pm
Christopher - please read the actual report and not the 'PC media' which inevitably picks the best headline-grabbing phrases.

....

I've read the report. If I wasn't in a rush I'd have posted it; And the thousand more reports backed up by independent scientific research which say the same thing.

Also the articles I posted weren't really headline grabbing. Given the media and scientists are not allowed to be absolutely truthful. They must protect the homosexuals feelings and pretend the feminisation of males has absolutely no relevance to homosexuality. Even though the link is proven.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 3:24 pm
He was good when he was an hetero.

Now that hes gay I dont hear much about him. Thats what homossexuality does to you: it lessens your professional level while giving you media exposure. One final exposure before quitting rugby...

Playing rugby is about being an example to society. Inside and outside the pitch.

Irresponsible imature Gareth fooling everyone, and worst, his wife too.Shame.

Now go join Tiger Woods and all the rest in sexual scandals...

By Hoogbyruligan, at December 22, 2009 3:26 pm
Chris

Haven't drank tap water in nearly 4 years (march '06 I think).

Having read the articles you linked, I understand the point you're making, but counter it with the fact that although I'm aware female hormones can lead to gender imbalance, nowhere in the articles does it suggest that this leads to a preference for homosexuality, which was my point. I know you can say that female hormones are the root, but thats somewhat naive. Testosterone, is as abundant in food as any pheromone, obviously, testosterone itself isn't, but food leads to it's production in both sexes. Fish, apples, all nuts (no pun int), chicken, Zinc, Vitamin A. Are these foods the cause of lesbianism?

I was producing too much testosterone, which was a consequence of an illness, but I didn't start going out being aggressive and sexually charged all the time, I'm being simplistic I know, but I am trying to prove a point.

Remember XX is female and XY is male, so simplified, we already possess the make up to change.

And the world's pop is speeding towards 7 billion (within 10 years). The long term survival of the planet and its resources can only cope with 2 billion MAX, so homosexuality and male gender imbalance is in my opinion is necessary and a huge positive to stem the dangerous unacceptable rise.

'Gay pile, hey everyone, we're going back in the gay pile'.

'They took our jobs!'

Daily South Park ref.

By Huh!! the 3rd, at December 22, 2009 3:40 pm
This man is my hero.

By muse, at December 22, 2009 3:47 pm
Blue Bulls fan, you have 3 teenage daughters. That would make you around the age of 40 probably, right? And yet you say you're 115kg of muscle. Somehow I find that incredibly hard to believe, which shows what a sh*t-stirrer you are.

As a black man I'd expect you to show less prejudice in all honesty. You're exactly like the people who discriminated against your parents.

Regarding the science mumbo-jumbo and the attitude of Christopher, being homosexual isn't only about sex ('sticking ones willy in another mans bum').

Heterosexual macho bravado is precisely the reason for people like Thomas being so afraid.

By Dave, at December 22, 2009 3:50 pm
i respect thomas for coming out takes alot of gutts to come out infront of the rugby world and even the sporting world so for that i respect him alot for what hes done,
hope he gets a great reception to whatever ground he goes to!!
good try aswell

By geordie, at December 22, 2009 3:50 pm
Of course. But surely you understand a scientist cannot actually say it contributes to homosexuality. Even if you imagine for a minute that was the case, can you see a scientist announcing that? Not if he wants his career!

I personally have no problem with homosexuals, as you say it has a positive effect on the out of control population.

What I do have a problem with is the suggestion that homosexuality as an act is perfectly natural(which it is in most senses), while being slandered as a bigot if I dare look at the scientific evidence and suggest there's a good argument homosexuality is a biological flaw.

An example of this. I write an article in a leading newspaper denouncing anal sex as abhorent and disgusting. Nobody cares.

I write the same article and take aim at anal sex between men, and I'd be nationally slandered as a bigot.

Understand? So I can say anal sex is vile, but when it comes to homosexuality I must pretend I have no issue with it otherwise I'm a right wing nutter.

I've got to pretend homosexuality is 100% natural while ignoring all the scientific evidence suggesting chemicals and poisoning have led to increased feminisation of the male species(including sexual orientation, of course).

And sure on your other part. Females are also becoming more feminine. A 12 year old today is physically built and as sexually active as an 18 year old 50 years ago.

So the same chemicals feminising men are also hyper feminising females.

Of course as a straight man I'm not complaining, big bums and breasts are my thing. But i realise in general it's not a natural evolution. It's the byproduct of mass poisoning.

Funnily enough, I can say that publically without any backlash.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 3:53 pm
Dave > Don't forget his 70 inch plasma which are hard enough to get hold of from most AV retailers in Europe let alone South Africa.

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 3:53 pm
Regarding the science mumbo-jumbo and the attitude of Christopher, being homosexual isn't only about sex ('sticking ones willy in another mans bum').

.....

Yap yap yap. More emotive responses from people who haven't bothered to research the topic.

'Science mumbo-jumbo. Go walk to the edge of the earth and dive off you religious cretin.

By Christopher, at December 22, 2009 3:56 pm
Anonymous, I'm not interested in what you have to say actually. Use a name so I can identify you amongst the other cowards who sling insults left right and centre.

By Dave, at December 22, 2009 3:56 pm
Well done Christopher, you just showed what a child you really are. You totally missed my point and instead chose to insult.

And, I'm anything but religious, tyvm.

By Dave, at December 22, 2009 3:58 pm
Hey Gareth Thomas is a rugby player.Who is gay.BIG FUCKING DEAL!I know barristers who are gay,butchers,builders,teachers,etc etc.

Simply because he is gay doesnt mean he can do his job any better or any worse.
I mean someone pointed it out as regards the hurler in Ireland.Donal òg Cusack.

Brilliant player for all the years before he came out,no difference afterwards.In fact some think hell play better now he has it off his chest.

If this is the case with alfie?!?WELL we know where the 6N is going especially if hed be in the midfield wit Jamie Roberts like.

Gay or straight its all cool in this day and age.So lond as ur not a close minded retard.

By Not Enough Dublin Girls In The World, at December 22, 2009 4:21 pm
Proud of him.IT IS ABOUT THE RUGBY.

To the ignorant folk...times they are a changin'...The chance that a gay guy is going to tackle the toothpaste out of you might be as soon as your next game. (I am pretty sure Mr Blue Bull has more than one friend that is gay...maybe he is one of his toughest macho friends...just like Alfie?!)

If we want rugby to grow, we need to stop excluding people.

By the way. I am NOT gay.I just have a brain.

Go Alfie!!!

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 4:32 pm
I'm afraid, Christopher, that your argument, however eloquently you put it, totally falls apart when you say that scientists are effectively lying by suppressing the truth.

The report you quoted is totally biological, almost totally based on animals which have been knocked over by cars or caught by hunters.

It makes no reference at all to sexual preference or behaviour.
___________________________________

Anyway, this is not a biology site so: I'm happy that Gareth Thomas feels that he can speak freely about this now. He's coming to the end of his career and is using this to publicise a charity.

And he also happens to have 100 caps and have played for the Lions.

By jackohos, at December 22, 2009 5:01 pm
^^^^ sad day in rugby???? rugby should be proud to have someone like gareth thomas who made probebly the hardest decision of his life and for that the rugby world should respect him not take the piss because he doesnt have the same intrest in woman as some men.

By geordie, at December 22, 2009 5:05 pm
Fuck, you know what?
It would take massive cojons to admit to what he has.
Respect.

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 6:04 pm
Fair fucking play to the guy.
It would have been alot more easy for him to deny it.
That takes guts to admit what he has.
I respect him for that.
Anyone who has a problem with him, I dare to run at him.
My guess is he'll fuck you up.

By Jon, at December 22, 2009 6:10 pm
I think the sad thing about this whole situation is that anyone cares one way or the other. To me it's tragic that if a person's gay, their sexual preference has become their identity. It's an entirely irrelevant characteristic, and it's too bad it's become so artificially important.

By BMitchell, at December 22, 2009 6:11 pm
Amazing teeth, would love to know where you got them from Alf!!

Gotta agree with greiffel i think it was why now?? i dont think it bothers anyone in wales, its been suspected in wales for about 5 years!
I can't help feeling Alfie coming out to the news must be a ploy for a book due out or a dvd!!

All in all, why now.. your at the end of your career, if there was a change needed in peoples thinking why not come out 5 years ago.

By Abs7, at December 22, 2009 6:12 pm
So what's the big deal about Gareth Thomas 'outing' himself?

Well, to be honest it really shouldn't be a big deal at all. Just because Thomas has revealed he prefers Arthur to Martha doesn't mean that he's suddenly going to start mincing around on the pitch and take up flower arranging. Although even if he does, so what?

I can only deduce that a rugby player admitting he is gay is such a big issue as rugby (along with other sports) contains a lot of narrow-minded bigots brimming with testosterone, who mistakenly believe that any gay team mate will try to mount them as soon as they strip off to wash their hairy arses in the showers.

Seriously guys, get real.

He's a rugby player who happens to fancy men, and by no means does this include all you one-eyed bigots out there brandishing your flaming torches.

Shame on you. It's 2009 not 1809 so get over it.

By Bamberio, at December 22, 2009 6:13 pm
and before anyone starts saying i'm a gay basher or something.. respect for you coming out now..

but 5 years ago you could of had a legacy of playing at a high standard for a number of years, and make a real difference to young blokes with a gay preference who want to play rugby at the highest level!

By Abs7, at December 22, 2009 6:18 pm
@Bok man:
Thomas was/is so successful - that already disproves your argument...

I think it was a very brave step, and the fact that he is gay doesnt decline his successes in any way. Maybe as you are religious, in a conservative way, gay ppl touch you in general?!

Maybe I would feel uncomfortable playing with someone gay or showering, but there are ways to come along with that even if the only reason is respect for your friend and rugby comerade.

By someone, at December 22, 2009 6:43 pm
i thought about this a bit, and i know i shouldnt be thinking this but to be honest if i know i am going to tackle a gay rugby player or he is going to tackle me it is still gonna be weird for me

By sebastian, at December 22, 2009 7:05 pm
Its ok and all, nobody gives a fuck bout it really not in these days...

Its just makes me think, he was simply the least gay looking guy around! what can we expect some the likes of well... every flyhalf in pro rugby!

By eric, at December 22, 2009 7:23 pm
when i was about 17/18 i played against a gay rugby team called the kings cross steelers. whilst quite funny for a young lad, it made no difference to the game whatsoever.

By Chris Boy, at December 22, 2009 7:43 pm
Wow, there are some really backwards opinions on this thread.

By John F, at December 22, 2009 7:55 pm
"You have to treat talking to a South African like you would a conversation with someone from the 1920s.

Most of the inhabitants still marvel at the big metal birds in the sky near the that thing they call an airport and think that they can cure illness with monkey sex."

Hey, asshole, you realize that while a twat like "I Bleed Blue (Bulls)" may be from South Africa, that's also where this site is based? You know, the one that you're on which provides you with rugby clips on an almost-daily basis? I'm just saying, until you create a website dedicated to rugby, you can't call someone who did a simpleton...or you look like an ass.

Cheers.

Oh, and good on Thomas for deciding it was time to say something; I think he was right in not wanting to be known as a "gay rugby player" - he's simply a great rugby player and who cares about whatever else.

By Marcus, at December 22, 2009 8:10 pm
Firstly) Quality Rugby player.

Secondly) i think he was wrong for getting married if he felt this way. I hate all this, its so hard being gay in society. Society doesn't give a damn!

By Tom, at December 22, 2009 8:23 pm
I think ... it would make the most important part of rugby ...the bits off the pitch ...in the shower...very awkward, I'd rather he pretend to be strait with the odd gay attitude you normally get anyway.

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 8:26 pm
this story is just getting annoying, we know you like men now get over it we dont care anymore! go out and enjoy yourself but dont make us have to know every detail!!

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 9:11 pm
What is your point, anonymous?

You founded the United Kingdom and invented the English language? You must be so proud. I'm sure you contribute so much to your beloved society, and the only reason London has skyscrapers and Heathrow has planes is due to your diligence. Lovely.

You point out that South Africans are "backwards" and childish, yet not only are you looking a gift horse in the mouth, you're calling its owner retarded. Seems a little childish to me is all.

But that has nothing to do with Gareth Thomas, so why get off topic?

By Marcus, at December 22, 2009 9:14 pm
firstly well done for coming out that took courage

secondly who cares on the rugby field the guys aiming to absolutely smash you and do anything he can to win the match hes not going to be copping a feel in the rucks or mauls.

and as regards christopher and his ramblings about meat and water and how its feminising todays men ...i have been reared off meat and i would eat prosscessed food very regularly too and drink buckets of EVIL TAP WATER and yet im 17 straight perfectly healthy and have developed massive muscle mass...now tell me how has all that food ive eaten femminised me?

By number7, at December 22, 2009 9:42 pm
wow, it appears quite a few rugby players and supporters on this site are almost as stupid, childish, bigoted and homophobic as football fans

And having a gay bloke in your team is brilliant, because gay guys have all the single girls as friends!

By M, at December 22, 2009 9:54 pm
Gareth is one of the most respected internationals around the world. After 100+ tests and a Lions tour, I don't think you'd find anyone anywhere who didn't like him and weren't given a laugh by him. Who gives a fuck if he likes men or women? I think his timing is brilliant, in that he established his reputation as a rugby player, and is now in a position to truly break a stereotype by admitting his sexual orientation after all he's accomplished.

Good for you Alfie, be yourself and if somebody gives you trouble, beat the shit out of them like we all know you can. I know I wouldn't want to mess with him.

By kevinb, at December 22, 2009 10:14 pm
quite unexpected.....

...i think its great that he has been accepted, and personally i couldnt care less about him being gay....he is one hell of a player and like someone said in the forum:

'He didn't choose to be gay, he did choose to be a rugby player and not to play football. Thats more then enough for me'

just glad his team mates and most people on here have just shrugged it and said, no big deal!

as for those going on about it, i think what thomas did was summed up in his last sentence on the video posted here, about a young lad feeling that being gay in a 'macho' sport isn't right and therefore quitting.....

.....honestly to everyone on here if Thomas actually came out 2 weeks from now and you knew nothing about it and a video tribute of his runs, tackles and tries came up would you ignore it? no, so there should be no big deal now!

(this is No.7 not the guy who doesnt have any balls, im not posting on this until tomorow!)

By No.7, at December 22, 2009 10:30 pm
FUCK! HALF THESE COMMENTS ARE BY SOCIALLY RETARDED PEOPLE!....

.....im not being funny christopher...how many people in the world eat meat?! how many drink tap water.....infact how many people do everything you stated....now out of those how many are gay, who were turned because of the genetic bullshit you are on about....

Homosexuality is far from new.....spartans for one were encouraged to sleep with each other to make a better bond, which i suppose improved the fighting for your bro sort of thing...there have been a few odd kings out there who have been on the recieving end of things, and some have had it end badly for them....james the something or other died by having a red hot poker jammed somewhere youd rather not!

i mean what the hell kind of backwards hickville neo nazi loser town do you and all these other bashers come from?!?

Thomas is a f*cking good player, no doubt about that! and to all of a sudden kick up complaints when he is trying to inspire young folk who perhaps swing the other way, not to be put off from the game is great!

i think its good the fact someone can come out and say, pretty much, ive achieved all this, etc etc, and im gay which has nothing to do with it but it shows you dont have to fear who you are!!!'

He never came accross as he wanted everyone in the world to know and cry for his or anything just that he hoped he was an inspiration for people...

and in all honesty his rugby is inspiring....

By Vic, at December 22, 2009 10:46 pm
I'd say I grew up around people who preached tolence, but they clouded it with religion...I don't began to understand the gay life because I'm straight, but I'd say respect the person for who they and what they've accomplished, don't denie them the respect they deserve they are people and the deserve respect as people. We can not place judgement on a person's personal life.

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 11:03 pm
hmmm....bleed blue (bulls) i am also a bok and bulls supporter but that gives you no reason to disrespect other teams. rugby has always been different from football, not because its a man sport. football is a decent game that fun to play as well. but because it is watched by gentlemen. we dont have this whole big riots after games. tho you seem to like to make it that way? i am embarrassed to regard you as a fellow South African. you are a disgrace and i feel sorry for your daughters. i also hate how this thread has become a racial issue, we talking about rugby, and thomas that had the balls to come out. and even if we disagree or dont beelive in gays, still show some common manners.

By Anonymous, at December 22, 2009 11:33 pm
to I bleed blue bulls:

like every homophobic prick around, you're just an useless link in evolution on his way out...

Please don't make any children

By kevdetoulouse, at December 23, 2009 12:13 am
Plenty of internet warriors as per usual....I've given up tbh.....Rugbydump please sort it out so that only members can post comments and then if they keep making racist, or disrespectful comments then ban them and their email address....It's the only way to cut out all this bullshit...

By themull, at December 23, 2009 1:27 am
I don't really know how to react to this. I'm surprised by the mostly positve comments.

It's like finding out the Pope is an atheist.

By Ox, at December 23, 2009 1:39 am
its a shame that with a great site like this and the fact its free that a lot of pricks end up using it......im sorry guys but im aware there is a huge amount of you who actually post sensible comments, that also goes with those who maybe are against things like thomas coming out....come on guys you have to give it to those who are against and actually state why, instead of those who believe because they are a guy they are automatically w*nk material for thomas.......guys im pretty sure it works the same as us fancying women and women fancying guys, there are a lot of non lookers out there and the majority of you or us are probably among them!!! (personally not me, im hot as hell....but anyway)

i suppose if RD became a pay site a lot of these assholes would disappear, unfortunately so will alot of the good guys who cant afford to pay subscriptions....

i suppose take every comment with a pinch of salt, three times my nickname of 'No.7' has been used on this thread (not including this post) and only once has it been me (again not including this...) so be careful how you take each post.

oh and btw if the prick who copies my nickname wants to get something right, when i say tomorow i mean in terms of GMT not the time this thread works on....so unlucky sh*thead!!)

(wont bother posting until tomorow!) i say this so i dont get name raped until later!

By No.7, at December 23, 2009 1:41 am
FUCK! HALF THESE COMMENTS ARE BY SOCIALLY RETARDED PEOPLE!....

.....im not being funny christopher...how many people in the world eat meat?! how many drink tap water.....infact how many people do everything you stated....now out of those how many are gay, who were turned because of the genetic bullshit you are on about....

Homosexuality is far from new.....spartans for one were encouraged to sleep with each other to make a better bond, which i suppose improved the fighting for your bro sort of thing...there have been a few odd kings out there who have been on the recieving end of things, and some have had it end badly for them....james the something or other died by having a red hot poker jammed somewhere youd rather not!

i mean what the hell kind of backwards hickville neo nazi loser town do you and all these other bashers come from?!?

....

Just another emotive response with no foundation in logic.

So I'm a backwards neo nazi loser from hicksville?

Odd. Considering I'm a left-wing-pro-immigration-anti-theist-anarchist.

But you believe what you like. Whoever ponders the cause of homosexuality is a hick biggot. Well done.

Do me one favour though, next time you think of opposing me, yeah, pick up a fucking book first.

Your grasp on history embarasses me to say the least. The proposal that Spartans were blatant homosexuals is absolutely wrong. It has no real foundation in truth what so ever.

But carry on. You obviously know more than I do, despite me being Greek.

By Christopher, at December 23, 2009 2:14 am
....um you mistake me christopher i did not say spartans were homosexuals or if i did i did not mean it, i merely stated that they were encouraged to participate in homosexual activities from an early age to create a bond!

.....well, you being from greece kinda makes me understand what you are talking about, i have lived in different parts of greece ranging from athens to some of the smaller islands, the veggies are shite, you'd see fresher vegetables coming out the arse end of a cow, the meat is absolute crap, and as for the tap water, if you want a fantastic dose of the shits then by all means drink it!

So in actual fact a lot of my comment is based on fact and logic....

...but anyway you know what they say, the only thing the greeks are good as is geometry!

By Vic, at December 23, 2009 2:38 am
You tend to lose faith in humanity after reading this thread.

Thomas = Awesome player

Thomas + being gay = Awesome rugby player......

it makes no difference if he is gay or not!!

All this guy is trying to do is give hope to those players who may be gay and fear playing because of stereotypes..... yet you guys still rip on him....

so either this is full of c*nts or ive just gone onto www.footballdump.com!

By :), at December 23, 2009 3:17 am
Agree, disrespectful or racist comments should be wiped and members banned. Some of the stuff that has been posted is sick.

By mfsa7, at December 23, 2009 4:47 am
tbh I think he's making a bigger deal out of it then anyone else.

Complete non-news imo.

By goodNumber10, at December 23, 2009 7:37 am
The majority of offensive and childish comments have been removed. If you feel that something you said was removed unfairly, feel free to send a complaint here.

Please show maturity when visiting the site. If things get out of hand, commenting will simply be disabled once again. It's up to you.

Thanks.

By GMC, at December 23, 2009 12:42 pm
I don't know why people are getting all shirty.

There isn't that much of a big deal, it was on sky news for a few days. The fact that it has made such headlines is becasue he's the first rugby player to go public on his sexuality. There is almost no doubt that there are many more players out there and this is probably a great relief to them.

Fair play to him that takes some balls (excuse the pun).

By Andy, at December 23, 2009 4:31 pm
While his sexual orientation shouldn't make a difference on the pitch, I say good for him for proclaiming it.

Didn't Pierre Raschi come out as well?

By Crosser, at December 23, 2009 5:29 pm
Does anyone think that chris and huh the 3rd are the same person with no life

By yoi, at December 23, 2009 5:59 pm
hes gay. so what?
btw im straight!

By Anonymous, at December 23, 2009 8:20 pm
Guys, i think a lot of you are missing the point here. So what lets forget he may be trying to write a book based on this or whatever, look passed it because i believe that is the point he is trying to make!

This isnt one of these x factor, i was an only child and my rents divorced and im gay please vote for me speeches.....he has achieved a bloody lot and is probably taken care of money wise....

I think this is more of a, 'guys i was scared and worried about telling anyone, yet look at me, i have been accepted so you will be too!'

Its not about the fact he is gay and he plays rugby its the fact that a gay person shouldnt give up a sport they love because they feel the stereotypical player is a macho man etc.....i mean school rugby was stereotypical, you're fat then you're a prop, you're tall then you're a lock, short is SH etc etc, this is just him stating he was ashamed and worried and look, he came out and was accepted so dont be afraid of who you are!!!!

As stated above by someone else, im not gay i just also have a brain!!!!

its not a case of well done thomas, its a case of good luck to anyone who feels the same way!

ofcourse a good 75% of you pricks have got your heads so far up your macho ego asses you cant see the real picture!!!!

By No.7, at December 23, 2009 10:45 pm
That was a really good statement, not overblown, he's just saying it how it is because it IS tough being homosexual in a heterosexual world!!!

however i think it speaks a lot for rugby union by the way people really just don't care. It's all good!!

By Dan, at December 23, 2009 10:55 pm
I can see from some of the homophobic comments on here why Gareth Thomas kept his sexuality private for so long.

Its ironic that we are supposed to be in the season of good will but I am saddened by some of the ugly comments here.

& Christopher - there is a big difference between a loveless "gang bang" that you seem to think is OK and someone who is trying to find someone to love

By Anonymous, at December 24, 2009 12:09 am
People are calling the great Tiger Woods scum because he cheated on his wife. This "guy" does the same thing, yet he's a hero.

By Anonymous, at December 24, 2009 2:16 am
Fantastic and inspiring player. Agreed that being gay categorises one unnecessarily and claiming to be gay like Alfie did should not be necessary. By the look of society and of some comments here, the statement makes perfect sense at the moment though. And I can't imagine how much balls he needed to make it public. So massive respect for the man.
Hope he will keep performing as he did for the past ten odd years. A real pleasure to watch.

PS. I love the comments about the scientists, genetics and food. Christopher, I happen to be a scientist and, even after reading some of the crap you posted, still manage to feed meat and tap water to my 5-year old boy.... Haven't noticed the damages yet but will keep you posted. Absolutely hilarious. Or sad?

By Nico, at December 24, 2009 3:03 am
I have lost a lot of respect for this man. It's like finding out Solid Snake's a tail-gunner, he just wouldn't be quite as cool. Know what i'm saying?

By UK_andy, at December 24, 2009 8:47 am
UK_Andy, who the hell is Solid Snake? :-s

By Dave, at December 24, 2009 10:04 am
A legend.

By DJ., at December 24, 2009 1:48 pm
'People are calling the great Tiger Woods scum because he cheated on his wife. This "guy" does the same thing, yet he's a hero.'

Who said he is a hero?

I say that its great that his sexuality is accepted or perhaps ignored in this great sport, which will no doubt be an inspiration to some people who might have the ability to produce some great rugby but would otherwise not do so because they feel out of place....

no mention of heroism...

....tiger woods i suppose is unfortunate for having the image of a clean cut straight shooting sportsman and person tarnished.

The personal lives of either of them are no interest to me, but the fact numerous kids in Eng were inspired by JW's kicking, perhaps NZ kids by Dan Carter, irish kids by BOD, i think any gay people will be inspired if they can play rugby to not give it up on account of being gay!

Honestly im amazed that some of you dont understand this? is it really that impossible to see?

By No.7, at December 24, 2009 1:56 pm
Yes. A gay Legend.

Dominici and Montgomery are also playing for the other team I think.

By Buenisimo, at December 24, 2009 5:08 pm
Here Christopher, stop trying to put us all off meat and tap water. Not cool!! And if you wanna taLK about what makes people homosexuals, go onto a website that encourages that. Instead of of coming on here ( a rugby website) andf insulting people who challenge your views and telling them to "read a book". Why don't you just chill out.

By Happy Feet, at December 24, 2009 11:22 pm
Just because Montgomery's a beautiful man with beautiful hair doesn't mean he's a gay.

By Anonymous, at December 25, 2009 1:42 am
rumor has it g thomas is not a gay and is just doing this for attentions and $$$

By Anonymous, at December 25, 2009 1:43 am
Are professional rugby players frequently checked for HIV etc?

By UK_andy, at December 25, 2009 3:58 pm
"Homosexuals ARE genetically different to straight men. This has been proven by the scientific community."

Bollocks.

By Anonymous, at December 25, 2009 10:09 pm
'Anonymous said...
Just because Montgomery's a beautiful man with beautiful hair doesn't mean he's a gay.'

perhaps not, but no doubt you are....

By Anonymous, at December 27, 2009 4:35 pm
What the hell does eating meat and drinking tap water have to do with rugby?!?!

It's getting harder and harder to find meaningful comments on this site.

By Anonymous, at December 27, 2009 8:01 pm
^ blame the guys who comment, not the site. The amount of trash spouted on somewhere like youtube is ten times worse.

By Scotsdale, at December 27, 2009 8:39 pm
LOL, scotsdale said it! at least on here most people have a mild interest in rugby, (minimum) on you tube you always have some prat saying that some players should just punch the other guy because of a big tackle, or how they are harder than the rugby lot because they box at the local gym.....still, probably more insightful than many saffa supporters! :p

By Anonymous, at December 28, 2009 2:36 am
Vile Euro trash have something against South Africa? Keep drinking your piss warm beer and cheering on your gay refs and players, kids.

By Bok_WC, at December 28, 2009 6:29 am
Vile Saffa fans have something against Europe. keep handing out care against the growing HIV in your country and keep cheering on the dutch contingent that makes up the South African team!

By Cock_WC, at December 28, 2009 6:07 pm
are you implying you're the world champion of cocks? in your mind, does gareth thomas hold up the cock-cup? i bet your blood boiled when super dutchman bakkies botha snapped that welsh prop's arm like a twig! careful with the hiv comment, after all, it is a gay disease.

By Anonymous, at December 28, 2009 10:19 pm
'are you implying you're the world champion of cocks? in your mind, does gareth thomas hold up the cock-cup? i bet your blood boiled when super dutchman bakkies botha snapped that welsh prop's arm like a twig! careful with the hiv comment, after all, it is a gay disease.'

...well i do have a large manhood, so i suppose it could be the world champion...i actually dont mind bakkies and its unfortunate he was banned for the incident....p.s im not a welsh fan.....

By Cock_WC, at December 29, 2009 12:51 am
What does this all mean? I mean what does it mean to be gay? How are you different?

By Jason1997, at December 29, 2009 3:56 pm
Jason....are you really that naive...?!?

gay in this day an age is another word for homosexual...which is an attraction to the same sex.

soooo, Gareth Thomas being a male, means he is attracted to other males.....

what it actually means in the rugby world is nothing, it has not affected his skill in the game...

and in terms of being different there is no difference....apart from the stereotypical floating around gay guys who apparently find it necessary to talk in a high pitched whiny voice....

By Anonymous, at December 29, 2009 4:24 pm
lol

By Anonymous, at December 30, 2009 5:09 pm
Well I guess its a courageous act from Alfie to admit he is gay. Very talented indeed. So really, who cares if he is gay, does not change his talent

Yes it still sound strange to have gays around you (even for me!). But you can find some that are intelligent or talented. I can assure you, gays don't bite people, they are normal persons with their own lives. For the ignorant fools, just live them alone, you are not going to die from it!

By Anonymous, at December 30, 2009 7:32 pm
UK_andy said... Are professional rugby players frequently checked for HIV etc?

.. but Andy why not ask if they are checked for heterosexual diseases too?, some of them are real nasty.

Bok_WC said... Vile Euro trash have something against South Africa? Keep drinking your piss warm beer and cheering on your gay refs and players, kids.

.. Bok, if they do dislike you it's probably because of childishly ignorant comments like that.

By Taylor, at December 31, 2009 8:52 am
Taylor, did you take offence to that question?

Do you know the answer? Would be scary if they weren't!

By IBBB, at December 31, 2009 1:50 pm