Hollywood Hills High School football captain Leo Washington told CBS 4 in Miami that he is gay, a public revelation inspired by NBA player Jason Collins‘ announcement that he is gay. You can watch the full video below.

Washington said his high school football team at his previous school in Georgia made him change in the women's locker room because he was gay. But at his new high school, he's been embraced by the team and the school. He's even a finalist for prom king.

"If anyone were to pick on him, we would all have his back," teammate Eli Gottlieb told CBS 4. "If anyone were to pick on us for anything about us, he would have our back."

Hollywood Hills High School is located between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale.

It's further evidence of two things. First, the power of coming out is extraordinary. Jason Collins told his story, which prompted Washington to tell his story, which will in turn prompt others to do so.

Second, with all of the great progress in pro sports, there's still a lot of work to be done in high school and college. This kid was harassed at his previous school so much that he felt the need to leave. Not good.

Sadly for the sports world, Washington won't be playing football in college. He'll be focusing on getting a degree in fashion.

Hat tip to Rod 2.0

NBA's Jason Collins' Announcement Inspires Broward Teen Football Player (CBS Miami) (via TheGailyGrind)


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