In a few short hours, Chiefs halfback Brad Weber has gone from Super Rugby battler to social-conscience barometer with his stand against Israel Folau's anti-gay comments.
But his stance has struck raw nerves on both sides of the debate.
Folau, the deeply religious Wallabies superstar has polarised public opinion with his social media rant, insisting God would send homosexuals to hell "unless they repent their sins".
That sentiment was later supported by wife and Silver Ferns netball star Maria Folau, who urged her hubby to "stand up for the truth, even if that means you will be standing alone".
While sporting bodies on both sides of the Tasman have been loath to take a stance, other than the standard "we value inclusion and diversity, whether it be gender, ethnicity, sexuality or religion" message, Weber has provided a voice in the wilderness.
The one-test All Black, who spent most of last season sidelined with a broken leg, took to Twitter on Tuesday night to voice his disgust for Folau's attitude.
"Kinda sick of us players staying quiet on some of this stuff," he tweeted. "I can't stand that I have to play this game that I love with people, like Folau, who say that he's saying.
"My cousin and her partner, and my Aunty and her partner are some of the most kind, caring & loving people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. To think that I play against someone that says they'll go to Hell for being gay disgusts me."
Remember, only two years ago, Weber's own Chiefs franchise was obliged to apologise publicly after lock Michael Allardice admitted using a homophobic slur at a hot pools complex during a post-season function.
Weber's tweet has resonated on social media, where his original post has now gathered 4000 likes and been retweeted 861 times.
"I've never heard of you, but you may be my new favourite rugby player," says Hoopdawg87. "Finally someone says it."
Replied Taylor Thorpe: "Shot standing up for us and those who have looked up to Folau, who are now saddened by his words. Means a lot to see someone from the sport say it as it is!"
Said Sam Learmouth: "Thank you so much for this - the silence in NZ to his (and his wife's) disgusting comments has been deafening. The harm that those sorts of comments cause children and young people, especially those struggling with their sexuality, is enormous and well done for calling it out."
But not all the comments are supportive, with many choosing to support Folau's right to express his religious beliefs.
"David Pocock has long been a gay rights advocate and has no problems playing with him," states AdamHadam76. "We can disagree with each other without ridicule. In that context I don't think your comment adds much."
Meanwhile, on Facebook, former All Black Eroni Clarke has joined others in sharing this support of the Folaus.
Weber has been sidelined with injury for two weeks, but is expected back to face the Reds in Brisbane on Saturday night.
The Chiefs take on Folau's Waratahs outfit in Hamilton on May 26.
Newshub.
