Ben Cohen Rugby Star on GT Cover

by Peter Lloyd


Rugby star Ben Cohen is the new cover star of this month's GT magazine.

The former Sale Sharks player – who is the 10th highest point scorer in the history of English rugby – has recently completed a US tour in a bid to battle homophobia.

Speaking exclusively to the leading monthly glossy, he admits that sport in the UK can be closed-minded.

"It can be from what I’ve seen. [But] over in the States it’s not accepted full stop. I find it’s more accepted over here. In France they’re very open minded about which way they go. Fair play to them if they’re enjoying themselves! But there’s a big, BIG difference between the States and Europe."

He also discussed his anti-bullying initiative with homophobia at the very top of its agenda.

"I want to put across the message that everyone has the right to be happy. Everyone needs to be accepted across the board. If we change one person’s mind or a thousand people’s minds we’ve done a good job.

"People have traveled to see me from Tel Aviv. That’s touching. It’s powerful stuff but that’s what we are trying to achieve. We want to create a strong charity, a foundation that will outgrow me.

"I was at a middle school yesterday, teaching rugby and talking about bullying. It can have a lasting effect, homophobia in sport, bullying in sport. Everyone has the right to take part in sport and enjoy it. There could be a sports star waiting in the wings but being bullied could stop them blossoming into something special."

The new issue of GT Magazine – which is on sale now – also features Chris Lilley and a news feature on the anniversary of 7/7.

It's also available to download as an app for the iPhone and iPad.
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