The National Football League’s first openly gay player was formally introduced on Tuesday days after making history with his selection in the league’s collegiate draft. Michael Sam was drafted by the St. Louis Rams months after coming out publicly. At a news conference with his new team, Sam was asked to offer advice in light of the obstacles he faced to coming out.

Reporter: “Michael, what’s the message that you have for anyone that might be dealing with their own personal struggle, whatever it may be, and they’re looking for the courage and the inspiration to just face it head-on?”

Michael Sam: “It’s OK to be who you are, whether you’re gay, straight, black or white. It’s OK to be comfortable in your own skin.”