Sheppey United footballer, Jahmal Howlett-Mundle has opened up about his experience following coming out as bisexual to his teammates on the field this July.
Speaking with The Athletic, Jahmal Howlett-Mundle says that public response to his coming out has been incredibly “overwhelming,” and he “didn’t realise the impact” coming out as bi would have to others, both on the field and off.
“The encouragement I received from team-mates and staff got me a lot of attention I didn’t expect,” Howlett-Mundle explained.
“I didn’t realise the impact it could have. It’s overwhelming, but the amount of beautiful messages I’ve had and the conversations since, I’m really glad I did it.”
“I convinced myself it would be easier to expect a negative reaction rather than a positive one – if I expect something negative then at least it is what I thought it would be,” Howlett-Mundle added.
Going on to praise his Sheppey United teammates, Howlett-Mundle explained that his team have been “great ever since,” and recalls how one of his teammates, Billy Bennett, was the first to acknowledge his sexuality in the huddle, resulting in all his teammates clapping in support bringing him close to tears.
Despite the support from many fans and his team, the 24-year-old adds that he has since found himself on the receiving end of homophobic abuse during league matches. Something he describes as “regrettably unsurprising but nevertheless still extremely hurtful.”
While he finds such instances hurtful, Howlett-Mundle adds that LGBTQ+ visibility in sport is essential for young people.
“Abuse will come. Unfortunately, that’s part and parcel of the game. I’m at at stage where I won’t react and it won’t get under my skin if this happens.”
