The One with Ryan Atkin
The referee joins us to talk officiating, and making history with his story in 2017.
It’s LGBT+ History Month, so it’s only appropriate that we speak to another history maker on the podcast – and that’s exactly what Ryan Atkin is.
He became the first out gay referee working in the men’s game in the UK when he came out in 2017.
And since then, Ryan has used his experiences and platform to help others in the beautiful game, with many crediting him for inspiring their own decision to come out.
Ryan’s popped up on the podcast from time to time, but has never had a full episode dedicated to himself - so today, we’re putting that right!
We chat about all sorts of things – getting into refereeing; some of his most memorable games as he worked his way up the pyramid; taking the decision to share his story; supporting others in the game; and life for him since.
Plus we try and settle a very important question that has been dogging people from Cornwall and Devon for generations!
It’s a cracker of a conversation that we think you’re going to love, and we’re really grateful to Ryan for joining us for it.
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST?
@ryantatkin
WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST?
@jack_murley
jack.murley@bbc.co.uk
Podcast
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The LGBT Sport Podcast
Taking a look at LGBTQ+ issues in sport.