Quinn Makes History as the First Trans or Non-Binary Footballer to Play at a World Cup
Canada’s Women’s World Cup journey took a significant step forward with a 2-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland. One player who has been instrumental in their success is midfielder Quinn, who has made history as the first trans or non-binary footballer to play at a World Cup.
Who is Quinn?
Quinn, born on August 11, 1995, in Toronto, grew up with three sisters. From a young age, Quinn displayed a passion and talent for football and was actively involved in the sport by the age of six.
They attended Duke University, where they became the first Canadian to play for the Duke Blue Devils soccer team from 2013 to 2018 while pursuing a major in biology. Despite starting their career as a defender, Quinn was awarded the prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference Midfielder of the Year award in 2017.
Quinn’s name gained significant recognition when they led Canada to a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics and helped secure gold at the Tokyo Games. In 2020, Quinn came out as non-binary and transgender, using gender-neutral pronouns, and adopted their prior surname as their new name.
Representation and Visibility
Quinn’s decision to come out and be open about their gender identity was driven by the lack of representation and visibility for individuals like them in the media and their profession. As a professional footballer, Quinn felt the absence of role models who shared their experience.
In an interview with BBC Sport, Quinn expressed their struggles, saying, “It’s really difficult when you don’t see people like yourself in the media or even around you or in your profession. I was operating in the space of being a professional footballer and I wasn’t seeing people like me.”
Quinn’s Professional Career
Quinn’s outstanding performances at Duke University led to them becoming the highest-drafted Canadian in National Women’s Soccer League history. In 2017, they were picked up by the Washington Spirit before moving to France to play for Paris FC a year later.
In 2019, Quinn signed with the OL Reign, a Seattle-based team, where they have been a key player ever since. They also had a brief loan spell at Swedish club Vittsjo Gik in the following year. With 90 caps for Canada since their debut at the age of 18, Quinn has represented their country at both the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games.
Quinn’s Impact on the World Cup
Quinn’s presence and performance at the Women’s World Cup have been groundbreaking. As the first trans or non-binary footballer to play at a World Cup, they have shattered barriers and paved the way for greater inclusivity and acceptance in the sport.
Their skills and contributions on the field have been vital to Canada’s success in the tournament. The 2-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland brought Canada one step closer to securing a spot in the knockout rounds of the Women’s World Cup.
Quinn’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers, especially those who identify as trans or non-binary. Their visibility and representation in the sport provide hope and encouragement to individuals who may have felt excluded or marginalized.
Conclusion
Quinn’s historic participation in the Women’s World Cup as the first trans or non-binary footballer is a significant milestone for inclusivity and diversity in sports. Their talent, determination, and courage have not only propelled them to success but also opened doors for others who may have felt invisible.
As the world continues to progress towards greater acceptance and understanding, Quinn’s story serves as a reminder that everyone deserves equal opportunities and representation, regardless of their gender identity. Their presence on the field is a testament to the power of breaking barriers and embracing authenticity.