Arizona State News: Edward 'Chip' Sarafin Admits He's Gay

Edward "Chip" Sarafin, Arizona State senior offensive lineman, has admitted that he is gay through a statement released by the school's athletic department. 

According to USA Today, Sarafin is the first active college football player to come out to the public. Compete, a Phoenix-based magazine that features gay persons in sports, first reported about Sarafin's sexual orientation, added the news site.

"It was really personal for me, and it benefited my peace of mind greatly," Sarafin said in the Compete write up.

In a statement, Arizona State University coach, Todd Graham, said that the team's brotherhood is not defined by cultural and personal differences but rather "an individual's commitment to the Sun Devil Way."

USA Today noted that Sarafin is a fifth-year senior in the university which considers him a "committed" player. 

"The entire athletics department is extremely proud of Chip and is unequivocally supportive of him," Arizona State vice president of athletics, Ray Anderson, said in a statement.

Anderson added that the athlete's academic pursuit and his dedication to football "embody all the characteristics that set our student-athletes apart and allows our university to maintain an environment of inclusiveness and progression." 

It was noted that the athlete is taking up an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering and is pursuing a master's in the same field. USA Today added that the player and the football program will release a statement on Wednesday.

In a similar report by AZCentral, it was noted that Sarafin's coming out is a chance "to illustrate the gap between perception and reality."

The report added that though the athlete is not a vital part of ASU's success, he is a player that strengthens the team's offensive end.

Sarafin followed the lead of St. Louis Rams linebacker, Michael Sam, who admitted that he's gay after the conclusion of his collegiate career at Missouri in February. The Guardian said that Sam's coming out started a critical analysis among sports analysts and fans.

"I understand how big this is. It's a big deal. No one has done this before. And it's kind of a nervous process, but I know what I want to be ... I want to be a football player in the NFL," Sam told ESPN.

On his Twitter page, Sam lauded Sarafin's brave move saying "Congratulations Chip Sarafin for having the courage to be yourself. Wishing you and your teammates much success this season. #courage2014"