Born: 1967 or 1968
Biography:
Alissa Wykes is a former American football running back who played for the Philadelphia Liberty Belles of the National Women’s Football Association. Born in 1967 or 1968, she made a significant impact on the world of sports, both through her athletic achievements and her trailblazing act of coming out as gay.
Before her football career, Wykes honed her skills on the softball field. She played softball at Upper Moreland High School in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, where she showcased her natural talent and passion for sports. Little did she know that her athletic journey would lead her to make history and become a symbol of resilience and bravery.
Wykes joined the Philadelphia Liberty Belles, a renowned team in the National Women’s Football Association. She quickly became known for her exceptional skills as a running back, displaying power and agility that left opponents in awe. Standing at 5’6 and weighing 209 pounds, she commanded respect on the field and earned the nickname A-Train from her teammates.
However, it wasn’t just her athletic prowess that set Wykes apart. In a groundbreaking move, she became one of the first active American athletes to publicly come out as gay. In the December 2001/January 2002 edition of Sports Illustrated for Women, Wykes courageously announced her sexual orientation, bringing attention to LGBTQ+ representation in sports.
While her announcement was met with mixed reactions, Wykes remained steadfast in her commitment to authenticity and paving the way for others. Catherine Masters, owner of the National Women’s Football Association, criticized Wykes, accusing her of pursuing a personal agenda. Nevertheless, Wykes’s openness sparked important conversations and brought attention to the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ athletes.
In 2003, Wykes continued her advocacy and participated as a panel member at the first National Gay/Lesbian Athletics Conference at MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Her presence at the conference allowed her to share her experiences and provide support for other individuals navigating similar paths.
Despite the challenges she faced, Wykes’s impact extended beyond the football field and her involvement in LGBTQ+ advocacy. She became an inspiration for many, defying stereotypes and pushing boundaries. Through her determination, she challenged societal norms and helped shape a more inclusive sports community.