October 6, 2020

Words by Matt Lynch

Hello Safe Space NOVA Community!

My name is Matt Lynch and I am a 29-year-old gay man. I came out back in April 2020 via an article in Outsports.com. I have been a college basketball coach for 10+ years, working within both Men’s and Women’s basketball. I truly believe that the coming out process is a marathon and not a sprint. And with organizations like Safe Space NOVA, they can provide a powerful resource to the youth as you try and navigate this very difficult process. 

I knew I was gay for as long as I can remember. It became very apparent to me in middle school when my male classmates began to get excited about girls or the idea of a girlfriend, while I had zero interest in girls. I am not sure why I chose to hide being gay, even back then. I come from a very loving family, who is very comfortable with me being gay. But for whatever reason in my head, being gay was “wrong” or “bad”. So, I decided to try and keep it a secret. It wasn’t always easy; in fact, it was incredibly difficult at times. There were many nights of anxiety, sadness, and depression. And that is just how my life went for a while. I struggled through life from ages 14 to 24. That’s not the way to live your life, by struggling day today.

As I grew older and became more confident and educated, I realized that there was nothing wrong or bad about Matt Lynch. So, I began to try and accept myself for who I am, and that is a process that is ongoing, even to this day. I was lucky enough to meet some great people along my marathon and those people helped me to figure out who I am and to offer some support. I think that having support is so important. And I know that can be easier said than done. 

So, I would encourage anyone who is looking for support to reach out to organizations like Safe Space NOVA, or Outsports, or even to me! We are all one people and we are all in this thing together. And remember, this is a Marathon, I am still in the race right now to this day. But I am fighting the good fight as I know many of you are. Love you all!

Sincerely,

Matt Lynch

Instagram and Twitter: @Lynch5_

Email: CoachLynch5@gmail.com

Outsports Article: https://www.outsports.com/2020/4/3/21206167/college-basketball-coach-matt-lynch-gay-coming-out