This post, "Matt Hatzke Comes Out; Quakes Compatriots React," originated from gay4soccer.
2008 MLS SuperDraft pick Matt Hatzke came out publicly as gay in a very personal blog post. We got in touch with and heard from some of his connections from his days with the San Jose Earthquakes to share their thoughts on his news.
Long-time Quakes coach is now with the Chicago Fire, and we got his well wishes for Matt prior to the team’s annual Pride Night match.
I’m proud of Matt for having the courage to publicly discuss such a personal topic. He was a bright young man, the consummate professional during his time in San Jose and I wish him all the best.
Teammate Kelly Gray is a fellow Bay Area native, so he has known the Hatzke family and also has done work with Matt’s brother who is also an MLS alumnus.
I couldn’t be happier for Matt. His courage will hopefully help others to be able to follow in his footsteps.
Peter Lowry was a competitor in Major League Soccer, but a teammate at Santa Clara University and shared Matt’s story on Twitter.
Great guy, great story. http://t.co/Pz1wRcODWW #Pride @MLS @SCUBroncoSoccer
— Peter Lowry (@PeterLowry) June 24, 2015
Finally, Ian Joy of BeIn Sports was also an MLS competitor, and shared this lovely tweet.
Congrats to Matt Hatzke! Nice month to come out. Let’s hope this inspires more footballers to be free. #Equality pic.twitter.com/tRPEpay1Jv
— IAN PAUL JOY (@JOYPAULIAN) June 24, 2015
We’ll continue to add reactions to this post as we receive them.
#g4s writer gay4soccer and other talented contributors can be found at gay4soccer.
