By Jon Holmes, Sports Media LGBT+, via The Gay Footballer’s Podcast
Ryan Atkin says his mental health has improved along with his performances as a referee since he first discussed his experiences as a gay man working in football.
Atkin made headlines around the world in August 2017 when he told Sky Sports that he was coming out publicly in order to further positive conversations around LGBT+ inclusion in the professional game.
Over a year and a half later, he not only continues to take charge of matches at National League North / South level but has also become a respected voice on matters of equality and diversity.
Speaking on a new episode of The Gay Footballer’s Podcast, the 34-year-old says he is now “a lot happier” in all aspects of his life, and that others who are out will appreciate the previous difficulties he faced as a result of being in the closet.
“I’ve benefitted personally from being true to myself,” Atkin tells podcast host Adam McCabe.
“I’m sure people will identify with the fact of how much it drains you mentally, having to hide things, put people off the scent, or think about ‘I can’t be in this picture, I can’t do this or that…’, especially with things like Instagram or Facebook, and all the media now around sport.
“You don’t want to give anybody any information that could potentially lead back to something, and it has a mental impact on you.”
Atkin says coming out publicly has given him a psychological boost, with the effect on his self-confidence, his wellbeing, and his performances on the pitch being clear benefits.
“Mental health currently is something that is such a big topic in the world,” he adds. “Every year, we’re understanding more about the human brain and emotions, and how it affects us.
“I know for myself that I’m a better referee now. I can bring my whole self to the game, I’ve got better empathy, I’ve got a better relationship with the players… I’m not saying I didn’t have that before, but I was certainly lacking things. I was lacking the spark that I feel that I have now going into games, and I’m sure that would be said for players themselves who have come out and said why they’ve done what they’ve done.
“Ultimately it’s a massive weight off my shoulders.”
Atkin accepts fully that there are myriad reasons and complications which discourage the vast majority of gay and bisexual men in professional sport from being publicly out.
However, he hopes understanding will grow around the sense of freedom and relief that being open about sexuality can bring to an individual who is gay or bisexual, particularly when working in an environment which is seen by many as being traditionally ‘masculine’.
“It’s important for people to realise that there are so many different factors when you’re playing or involved in sport that can change you as a person – your personality, the way you approach decision making, etc.
“So for me, it’s not about being gay in the sport, it’s about understanding some of the subconscious blockers and pressures that it puts on you in your personal life, and that you then take into something that you’re meant to really love and enjoy.”
Listen to Ryan Atkin’s interview on The Gay Footballer’s Podcast. Also available on iTunes.
Related links
Gay Footballer’s Podcast: Sharing stories – In episode one, Adam chats to Sports Media LGBT+ network lead Jon Holmes
Introducing The Gay Footballer’s Podcast – Having shared his story, Adam is now amplifying the voices of other inspirational LGBT+ individuals in football