Justin Lui made the decision to come out as gay to his Stanford University volleyball teammates in 2020, a moment filled with both anxiety and relief. In his sophomore year, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lui disclosed his truth through a team email thread, leading to a mix of emotions and anticipation regarding his teammates’ reactions. The Canadian senior men’s national volleyball team’s Libero received an outpouring of support and encouragement for his courage, which not only boosted his confidence but also enhanced his performance and camaraderie on the court.
Embracing his authentic self allowed Lui to approach his teammates with newfound confidence, fostering better chemistry within the team. Reflecting on the evolving landscape of inclusivity in sports for the LGBTQ community, Lui noted a positive cultural shift, with younger athletes reaching out to him for guidance on their own coming-out journeys. This normalization of LGBTQ representation in sports has been instrumental in empowering individuals to be themselves while excelling in their athletic endeavors.
The positive impact of Lui’s vulnerability extended to his Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Games, where he represented Canada in men’s volleyball. Despite the team’s challenging performance in the tournament, Lui viewed the experience as fulfilling and enriching. His ability to handle pressure and focus on enjoying the moment stemmed from his earlier journey of self-acceptance and coming out, highlighting the profound impact of embracing one’s identity.
As Pride month approached, Lui found a unique way to celebrate both his identity and sporting achievements. While unable to partake in Toronto’s Pride festivities due to his commitments with Team Canada at the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL), Lui introduced custom Pride-themed t-shirts and hoodies through CanuckStuff, a Canadian merchandise brand. The merchandise features a design of Lui diving for a ball alongside a rainbow maple leaf, offering a stylish and meaningful way for family, friends, and supporters to show their solidarity and appreciation for his journey.