Longtime ESPN reporter Mechelle Voepel announced a transition from female to male and a new name on Tuesday.
Voepel, who has covered women’s sports since 1984 and has been at the Worldwide Leader since 1996, will now be known by M.A. Voepel.
“In sports media, we’re lucky to tell stories of others’ journeys. We have our own, too. Part of mine is being transgender, and I’m transitioning to male,” Voepel tweeted. “Byline now M.A. Voepel, pronouns he/him. Please feel free to call me Voepel, MV, Michael, Mike; I’m good with them all.
“I have the great honor of receiving Gowdy Award next month from Naismith Hall of Fame, and wanted to do that as authentic self, hence this announcement now. Fear can keep us paralyzed for decades, especially when we think we will lose all that is dear to us, including career.”
Voepel went on to thank ESPN for its support and said his coverage and professional approach won’t be changing.
““I may look and sound a little different. Glad to be who I’ve always been inside,” Voepel wrote. “Dedication to covering women’s sports, a lifelong joy as well as job, and admiration for all involved – players, coaches, execs, fans, referees, colleagues – that stays exactly the same. Thanks!”
Voepel currently covers women’s college basketball, the WNBA and volleyball for ESPN.