On the Record: Seattle Kraken athletic trainer Justin Rodgers [Video]

SEATTLE — Justin Rodgers, the assistant athletic trainer for the Seattle Kraken, went public seven months ago with a letter he wrote to his younger self. It revealed a long-held secret in the world of hockey.

Rodgers wanted to share with his peers that he is gay. He’s now believed to be the first openly gay support staff member in the NHL. 

Rodgers went on the record with KING 5’s Joyce Taylor and talked about what it means to live authentically in sports and in life.

‘They love me no matter what’

On Christmas Day 10 years ago, Rodgers felt ready to come out to those closest to him, his family.

“It was the time that I finally was able to build up my own courage and comfort level with myself,” he said.

He was inspired by Robbie Rogers, who is a gay …