Arizona State Lineman Ed “Chip” Serafin Comes Out Gay

                                                                      

Arizona State offensive lineman Edward "Chip" Sarafin told Compete Magazine -- a Tempe, Arizona-based LGBT publication -- in its most recent issue that he is gay.

Like former Missouri defensive lineman Michael Sam, Sarafin came out to his team before going public.

"It was really personal to me and it benefited my peace of mind greatly," Sarafin told Compete Magazine of coming out to his teammates.

Sarafin becomes the first current Division I college football player to publicly announce he is gay.

"We are a brotherhood that is not defined by cultural and personal differences, but rather an individual's commitment to the Sun Devil Way," ASU coach Todd Graham said in a statement. "Chip is a fifth-year senior and a Scholar Baller, a graduate and a master's student. His commitment to service is unmatched and it is clear he is on his way to leading a successful life after his playing career, a goal that I have for every student-athlete. Diversity and acceptance are two of the pillars of our program, and he has full support from his teammates and the coaching staff."

"The entire athletics department is extremely proud of Chip and is unequivocally supportive of him," vice president of ASU athletics Ray Anderson said.

Sarafin has spent most of his time at Arizona State as a reserve offensive lineman. The 6-foot-6, 320-pound lineman graduated last spring with a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering and currently is enrolled in ASU's graduate program for biomedical engineering.

The Sun Devils open their season Aug. 28 at home against Weber State.

pic:outsports