Living in a homophobic culture, not being exposed to homosexuality, and being surrounded by members of both genders may encourage latent homosexuality.

Red floral and fish motifs throughout the series serve to represent homosexuality within a predominantly homophobic culture.

Amaechi, in a book to be published next week by ESPN Books, "Man in the Middle," wrote about his reluctance to disclose his sexuality in the homophobic culture of sports.

The bravado that a jolt of speed gives to men with shaky self-esteem in a still homophobic culture is an element of its appeal.

Interest in Brendan's story was attributed to both his relation to his father and "hockey's sometimes homophobic culture."

"I don't think a homophobic culture exists in India," he said.