Physical Education


The following is a list of influential people that can be tied into general physical education curriculum, and may also incorporate LGBTQ inclusive instruction. These people or events are tied into LGBTQ curriculum because they are LGBTQ in orientation, or have influenced modern thought on the inclusion of such minorities. Traditionally, mention of LGBTQ issues in physical education classes is the most unexplored. This list is just a beginning.

Influential People

Justin Fashanu - 1st gay black British footballer, rising to fame in 1980s
Greg Louganis - 1980s gay olympic swimmer and double gold medalist
Dave Kopay - influential 1980s & 90s gay football star & outspoken gay activist
Billie Jean King - 1970s "Female Athlete of the Year", famed for tennis achievements
Glen Burke - influential gay 1970s black baseballer, known for gay activism
Tom Waddell - founder of Gay Games in 1982, olympic-like competition
Bill Tilden - gay 1920s tennis player unusually discussed in 1970s Sports Illustrated article
Marina Navratilova - influential and proudly out modern tennis great
Bob Paris - gay 1980s Mr. America & Mr. Universe turned stage actor
Ed Gallagher - gay 1980s football star and suicide prevention advocate
Jerry Smith - 1st gay footballer to make it to the Supep Bowl; 1965-77
Dave Pallone - gay National Baseball League umpire and GLBTQ advocate
Rene Portland - influential lesbian college basketball coach
Roy Simmons - late 1970s and early 80s HIV positive gay footballer
Rudy Galindo - 1980s and 90s gay olympic ice skating champion


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