May 16, 2011 | Sex & Society

Ben Cohen quits rugby to focus on gays

Ben Cohen, an athlete who received media attention around the world for his vocal support of gays and lesbians, is quitting rugby. The 32-year-old straight man has decided to focus on the Ben Cohen Stand Up Foundation, created to take on bullying and homophobia.

"I would never have imagined my career was going to move in this direction after my rugby career, but here we are – it's happening," he said. "I have reached the top in my sport. It has been an incredible journey and has put me in the privileged position I am in today to be able to work on these exciting new projects through the Stand Up Brand.

"As athletes, it is not enough just to have strong bodies, we must have strong characters and use our voices to support those who need and deserve it."

Pretty on the outside and pretty on the inside.