However, referees – particularly those in powerful positions – tend to be older and "conservative," according to Powell. "The people who make important referee decisions in local and state organizations are, for the most part, over 60."

If older officials do talk positively about sexuality, Powell says, they often add the caveat, "I just don’t think they should broadcast it."

That is "very hurtful. It’s the same as saying, ‘Don’t open up and share anything about yourself. Just come to the field, then leave.’"

Referees working their way up the soccer ladder travel often. Yet, Powell says, "It’s taboo to mention that your boyfriend is staying back at the hotel. And you can’t encourage him to come to your game to support you."

That isolation drove Powell’s first partner away. "I was too ashamed to bring him to events," Powell says with regret. "I just wanted to keep myself out of the headlines. I didn’t want any ‘drama.’ So he never got to understand my love for soccer, and for refereeing."

It’s a love that’s burrowed deep in Powell’s persona. His goal is to become a top-level referee.

Yet the older he gets, the more he realizes "I don’t want to shelter myself for the sake of getting ahead. I want to earn what I have on my own merits."

It won’t be easy, but Powell is inching out of the professional closet.

Besides, he adds, "The number of world-class officials who are gay would surprise a lot of people."