Ryan Atkin is a referee in English football who will also officiate in National League North and South this season. He is also a fourth official.
The 32-year-old described this moment of opening up as a gay as "significant for him and football in the world".
"It's significant personally but more for the game itself, where we are in football and what is happening in the world," Atkin told BBC Radio 5 live.
"I was slightly concerned regarding the fans and the general public but it's been extremely positive so far and probably better than I predicted," said Atkin.
"There will always be some negative or homophobic comments - especially on social media.
"But that just goes to strengthen the need for positive messages and show lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people are involved in the sport, whether they are out or not."
In reference to LGTB, F.A Boss was criticise last term for recommending players to come out but they will still suffer abuse..
"Within any sport, there will be gay people, but it is a choice for them to decide to come out and in the LGBT community we do not pressure people to come out," added Atkin.
"If those people do choose to, then they have our full support."
The FA's head of senior referee development, ex-Premier League referee Neale Barry, said the organisation was offering its "full backing" to Atkin.
"Our role is to support all referees, aid their development, maximise their potential and, above all, help ensure their experiences are positive," said Barry.
"Ryan's declaration marks an important moment in the game and reinforces the fact that refereeing really is open to everyone.
"He's stated that people who are happy in their own skin perform better and I couldn't agree more."
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