One year later.

A year ago today, an incredibly inspirational person was taken from this earth far too early.

On February 5, 2010, Brendan Burke, my fellow classmate at Miami University, and his friend Mark Reedy, were killed in a car crash on a snowy Indiana highway. Although I didn't know him very well, we had had a few classes together (we were both political science majors) and even took the dreaded LSAT together.

I first met Brendan in POL 343 - The American Presidency. He seemed to have absolutely everything going for him. He was smart, handsome, determined, and fearless. His father, Brian Burke, is the general manager for the Toronto Maple Leafs and served as the general manager for the U.S. men's hockey team in the 2010 winter Olympics. Brendan grew up in a hockey-loving family. He played throughout high school and when he got to Miami, he served as a student manager for the Redhawks. He planned on attending law school and working in hockey management.

However, three months before his tragic death, Brendan became the closest person associated with the NHL to come out as openly gay. His coming-out story was covered by newspapers and television alike and started a long-overdue conversation about homophobia in sports, particularly in the traditionally 'macho' sport of hockey. Brendan preached about the importance of acceptance and tolerance in the locker room. He wanted gay athletes to know they weren't alone and that homophobia in sports should not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Since his death, Brendan's story has impacted and inspired many. He had an article written about him in GQ, many NHL and collegiate teams have honored him during games, and Blackhawks' defenseman Brent Sopel spent his day with the Stanley Cup marching in the 2010 Chicago Gay Pride Parade (in honor of Brendan).

Brendan's courage has served as inspiration to many and his family continues his fight against homophobia in sports. Brendan accomplished more in his 21 years than many accomplish in their entire lifetime. I am proud to have met such a tremendous human being and find comfort in knowing that his memory will continue to live on within the athletic community and with the lucky few who knew him.

There has never been an openly gay athlete in any of the U.S.'s big four sports. I hope that Brendan's courage can pave the way for others within the athletic community to be true to themselves. I am ashamed with how our wonderful country has dealt with gay rights (including gay marriage) and homophobia. However, I was incredibly proud to see the recent repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.' I'm sure it is the first of many steps in the right direction to come. It won't be easy, but I'm sure we will get there...and when we do, I know Brendan will be watching with a smile.