"I realised my own club was homophobic.": Former Adelaide United star Josh Cavallo alleges homophobia within the club led to his departure
Former Adelaide United star Josh Cavallo has alleged that homophobia within the A-League club led to his departure, claiming he was sidelined for reasons unrelated to football.
In a post made on Instagram, Cavallo - Australia’s first openly gay male professional footballer - said: “Leaving the club had nothing to do with football. Decisions were made by people in power that blocked my opportunities, not because of my talent, but because of who I choose to love.”
He revealed that under new management, politics - not performance - kept him off the pitch: “It became clear that I wasn’t allowed on the pitch because of politics. It’s hard to swallow when I realised my own club was homophobic.”
Cavallo, who is currently playing in England with Stamford AFC, expressed frustration that fans were misled: “People thought I was sidelined based on injuries, when in reality, it was internal homophobia that kept me on the bench.”
The emotional toll was significant: “This was exactly the fear I had about coming out… For the first time, I actually questioned if I should have kept my sexuality a secret.”
He added that seeing teammates mock a photo of him and his partner in a group chat “only added to this heartache.”
Despite the ordeal, Cavallo thanked Adelaide fans: “Adelaide is where I found my wings. To the fans and supporters: thank you for your passion and backing. You were incredible to play in front of.”
Now starting fresh in the UK, Cavallo says the move has helped him “breathe again” and hopes to fall back in love with the sport that means everything to him.
Responding to Cavallo's claims, a statement from Adelaide United reads: "The Club is extremely disappointed by the claims made and categorically rejects the allegations, including any suggestion that Adelaide United is homophobic. All on-field decisions relating to team selection are made solely on footballing grounds.
"Adelaide United has always been committed to fostering an inclusive environment for players, staff and supporters and we remain proud of our ongoing work to promote inclusion across football.
"Strengthening inclusivity must remain an ongoing focus for the game, and the Club looks forward to hosting the fourth annual Pride Cup this weekend against Melbourne Victory.
"The Club will not be making any further comment at this time."
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