September 09 - They Score
One of the best things about this job is the fact I get to hang out (albeit for a short time) with lots of different types of people. And among the nicest are gay sportspeople. When I met some of the lads from Stonewall FC and the London Titans for our football feature, I could really sense the team bonds which hold them together. I’m sure it’s not just the desire to kick a ball about that has lead to the explosion in the number of gay soccer teams over the last few years – the fact that you get to see your mates in daylight and not just down the pub or in a club is a big part of it.
I was also surprised to hear some of the players say that, like me, they were a bit shit at football at school. I vaguely remember standing on the far end of the pitch with a guy who would later be a boyfriend, and doing dance moves. What a mo! But, as I get older, and fatter, I’m increasingly craving exercise and the buzz it gives you. So this photo is my bid to be signed up for the premiership – I’m still waiting for Fabio Capello’s call.
Naturally the best thing about football stars is that they take their shirts off at a moment’s notice. Our run-down of the top talent we want to tackle is sure to have you dribbling (I’ve used up all my football puns now, so it’s safe to read on). And if you think we’ve missed any of your faves, drop me a line and we’ll try to include a hot picture of them in the next issue.
More seriously, we also report on the “terrace truth” of homophobia in professional football. Although far more people follow soccer than attend church on a Sunday, this abuse has been generally overlooked in the past. But the miracle of cleansing the game from racism shows what can and will be achieved.
Of course even straight boys can be the victim of anti-gay bullies – Narnia hunk Ben Barnes reveals his experience of that in our interview with him. We also talk to Alan Cumming, Daniel Boys of Avenue Q, Bananarama and Kylie’s stylist Will Baker.
And finally, on the subject of style, October will be our fashion issue, so make sure you pick us up then to guarantee looking good this autumn and winter.