Teen Soccer Star Jake Daniels Scores Big – On And Off The Field!
Jake Daniels, the teen soccer star who bravely came out as gay last year, is soaring to new heights. The 19-year-old just signed a contract extension with his club, Blackpool FC, after a loan spell with Bradford Park Avenue.
Daniels’ talent is undeniable. He won the Northern Premier League’s goal-of-the-month award and was named Man Of The Match for his performance with Bradford Park Avenue. This rising star is changing the game for LGBTQIA+ athletes everywhere.
When Daniels came out at 17, he was the first active male pro soccer player in England to do so in over three decades! Fans worldwide rallied behind him, and Elton John and Prince William also showed their support.
Daniels is a true inspiration. He shares that parents of LGBTQIA+ kids often tell him their children came out because of his courage. Those messages remind him that his openness is worth the occasional negativity.
Tackling Hate, Finding Support
Even with all the love, Daniels still faces homophobic comments online. He admits it’s tough to ignore, but he’s found smart ways to cope. An app on his phone automatically deletes the worst of it, helping him focus on the positive.
Daniels knows he’s not alone. He’s one of only five out gay male pro soccer players in the world, and he’s found support from other trailblazers like Tom Daley. Daley’s been a huge mentor, proving there’s a strong LGBTQIA+ brotherhood in sports.
Daniels is living his life out loud, even sharing about his boyfriend! It takes serious guts to be this open, especially as a teenager in the spotlight. But he’s focused on his future. His hard work is paying off, his teammates have his back, and he’s a true inspiration to a whole community. We can’t wait to see where he goes next!
