USA Today published Bryant University assistant coach Chris Burns’ story earlier this morning.  Burns has now become the first openly gay DI men’s basketball head or assistant coach.  It is a very powerful story, and definitely one worth reading.  The full story can be found here:  A Coach Comes Out of The Closet.

Additionally, Burns and Bryant College AD Bill Smith released statements today in response to the story:

Statement from Bryant College Assistant Basketball Coach Chris Burns
Telling my story was not a decision I made lightly, and it was not made without consideration of how it would affect those around me. I am thankful for the support system I have had and for how it has grown over the recent weeks and days. It has been a long journey to get to the place I am today, and I hope by doing this, I can help ease the pain and conflict so many others are going through, often in silence.

Equally as important for me, though, is returning the focus to what I love – coaching basketball. I look forward to a season in which I feel free to be my authentic self both on the court and off it, and I hope this will not serve as a distraction for me professionally, for the game that has meant so much to me, or for the student-athletes and coaches who have supported me throughout this journey.

Statement from Director of Athletics Bill Smith
We fully support Chris and what he is doing and are proud that Bryant University is a place where he feels comfortable telling his story. It takes tremendous character and courage to take this step. At Bryant, we have moved beyond stereotypes and biases and see Chris for who he is – a great man and a fantastic basketball coach. The good that he is doing will echo through generations to come, in athletics and beyond, and Chris will always be a valued member of the Bryant Bulldog family.

(Photo Courtesy: Bryant Athletics)