In Conner Merten’s hometown of Kennewick, Washington, it was not uncommon for him to hear his athletic teammates, coaches or fans say things such as “you suck dick” or “fag.” However, following his winter break from Williamette this year, after years of confusion, self-resentment and acting what his community perceived to be as “normal,” Conner publicly announced that he was bisexual and had a boyfriend, becoming the first active football athlete to come out as bisexual at any level.