Torhon Barnes has been involved with OutLoud Sports as a longtime kickball player and found out about the league through a close friend.
Still, it was only a matter of time before he joined the organization’s flag football league.
“I’ve been waiting for the opportunity to support the effort to add this sport to the Outloud catalogue and am honored to serve as the inaugural league manager,” said Burns.
Barnes has been involved with the flag football league, which is set to begin in the spring of 2023. He said the best thing about the league is that it’s “a league for everyone.”
“Literally, all skill levels and backgrounds are welcome,” he said. “We pride ourselves on making such a technical and competitive sport enjoyable for all athletes!”
Burns said the Rams’ support of the Outloud Sports flag football league has been invaluable on a number of levels, from promoting inclusivity and equal treatment for all athletes to the equipment itself.
“Having a local NFL team support our queer recreational sports league promotes inclusivity and helps create a more accepting and united sports community,” said Barnes. “Partnering with the Rams shows that all athletes, regardless of sexual orientation, deserve to be treated with respect and equality. And finally, the high-quality jerseys, equipment and memorabilia are just the best gift ever!”
What inspired Barnes to live an authentic life was seeing his community, the LGBTQIA+ community, living their truth.
“Every day I see young, old and everyone in between living their lives with pride, despite all the adversity, and it inspires me to stay true to myself,” he said. “It’s a lifelong journey and I hope I can inspire others to do the same.”
As for how others can become better allies to the LGBTQIA+ community, Burns suggested avenues of education and activism.
“Anyone can be an ally and supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community by joining our league (*wink*), attending LGBTQIA+ events, and learning about our issues,” Barnes said. “I also want to encourage others to use inclusive language and speak out against discrimination and bigotry of any kind.”
Speaking about celebrating Pride Month, Burns said the month is a “beautiful time to recognise the identities, history and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community, and everyone is encouraged and welcomed to celebrate.”
