Esera Tuaolo

Esera Tuaolo is a multi-talented individual known for his contributions to both the sports and music world. A former professional football player, Tuaolo spent nine seasons in the NFL, playing as a defensive tackle for teams such as the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Minnesota Vikings. His athletic prowess earned him the Morris Trophy in 1989 and he was named a first-team All-Pac-10 in 1990. In addition to his football career, Tuaolo showcased his vocal talents on season 13 of "The Voice" in 2017, where he won his Knockout round.

Off the field, Tuaolo leveraged his platform to advocate for LGBT rights. A prominent figure in the LGBT community, he authored the autobiography "Alone in the Trenches: My Life As a Gay Man in the NFL" in 2006, candidly discussing his experiences as a gay athlete in professional sports. He has been a keynote speaker at various events, such as colleges, corporations, and pride festivals, addressing issues surrounding homophobia and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights within the sports community.

His contributions to both sports and the LGBT community have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Tuaolo was honored with the NCAA Inspiration Award, a fitting recognition for his inspirational journey. Throughout his career, Tuaolo has not only broken barriers in the sports world but also used his voice and experiences to educate and inspire others.