What advice do you have for members of the LGBTQ+ community about getting involved in tennis?
Don’t overthink anything and just join a tennis team or a league. We are at a time where if someone is homophobic, that is definitely that person’s issue and not yours.
What would you tell someone in the LGBTQ+ community who is hesitant to come out?
Life is so much better being able to be yourself. Life is too short to keep our true selves hidden away. If you are afraid that your loved ones will not accept you, most of the time it’s a better situation than we think.
Naturally, we punish our minds into always thinking about the worst-case scenario, but we need to be kinder to ourselves. If you lose a friend, then it’s that person’s insecurity and you are better off without that person in your life. Surround yourself with people that love you.
What does Pride mean to you?
Being yourself and being proud of it without regret. No apologies for who we are and accepting others.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Tennis is a wonderful sport and it’s waiting for you.
For more information on how you can support, participate in, or find tennis play opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community in Florida, visit USTAFlorida.com/Diversity.