Tom Waddell

Tom Waddell in the mid 1980s

Tom Waddell (November 1, 1937 – July 11, 1987) was an American sportsman, physician, and the founder of the Gay Games, a worldwide sport and cultural event that promotes acceptance of sexual diversity, featuring lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender athletes and artists. Waddell's contributions to sports and human rights have made him an iconic figure in the LGBT community.

Early Life and Education

Tom Waddell was born in Paterson, New Jersey, and grew up in a household that struggled with poverty. Despite the challenges, he excelled in athletics during his high school years. Waddell went on to attend Springfield College in Massachusetts, where he further developed his athletic skills, particularly in track and field. After completing his undergraduate degree, he served in the United States Army, where he trained as a paratrooper and decathlete. Following his military service, Waddell pursued a medical degree at the New Jersey College of Medicine and Dentistry.

Athletic Career

Waddell's athletic prowess was most notably recognized in the field of track and field. He competed as a decathlete, representing the United States at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Although he did not win a medal, his participation in the Olympics was a significant achievement in his sports career.

Medical Career and Activism

After completing his medical degree, Waddell focused on his career as a physician, specializing in sports medicine. However, his passion for sports and commitment to social justice led him to activism, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS, a disease that would later claim his life.

In 1982, Waddell founded the Gay Games, inspired by the Olympic Games but open to athletes regardless of their sexual orientation. The inaugural event was held in San Francisco in 1982 and was a resounding success, drawing participants from around the world. The Gay Games have since become a significant event in promoting diversity, inclusion, and the fight against discrimination in sports and society.

Legacy

Tom Waddell's legacy is preserved through the continued success of the Gay Games, which serve as a testament to his vision of a world where everyone has the opportunity to participate in sports without fear of discrimination. The Tom Waddell Health Center in San Francisco is named in his honor, providing healthcare services with a focus on the LGBTQ community.

Waddell's life and work have been the subject of documentaries and books, highlighting his contributions to sports, medicine, and human rights. His story is an inspiring example of how one individual's passion and dedication can lead to significant social change.

Death

Tom Waddell passed away on July 11, 1987, from complications related to AIDS. His death was a significant loss to the sports and LGBTQ communities, but his legacy continues to inspire future generations.