Mitch Brown Becomes First Openly Bisexual Player in AFL History

Mitch Brown, a former player for the West Coast Eagles, has made history by becoming the first openly bisexual male player in the Australian Football League (AFL), which has existed for 129 years. Brown, who played 94 matches from 2007 to 2016, publicly shared his sexual orientation in a direct message to The Daily Aus, stating, “I played in the AFL for 10 years for the West Coast Eagles, and I’m a bisexual man.” His announcement comes in the wake of several high-profile incidents of homophobia within the league, including a recent four-week ban for Adelaide Crows player Izak Rankine for using a homophobic slur during a match.

ABC NewsBBC NewsDaily Mail‘I’m in the space to do it’: Former Eagle Mitch Brown comes out as AFL’s first openly bisexual manThe GuardianAttitude - UKMitch Brown makes history as first male AFL player to come out as bisexual • GCNThe West Australian

Brown's decision to come out was influenced by the "hyper-masculine" culture prevalent in the AFL, which he described as an environment where discussions often revolved around heterosexual norms. He recounted a conversation among teammates about showering next to a gay man, where one player remarked, “I’d rather be in a cage full of lions than have a shower next to a gay man.” This culture contributed to Brown's feelings of isolation and ultimately played a significant role in his decision to retire from professional football. He expressed that he had “buried” questions about his sexuality during his career, fearing judgment and rejection.

BBC News

The announcement has been met with widespread support from the AFL community and beyond. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon acknowledged Brown's courage, stating, “This is an important moment for him, and for our entire game.” The West Coast Eagles expressed their pride in Brown, stating, “We love you, Mitch!” Various players and organizations, including the AFL Players' Association and Pride Cup CEO Hayley Conway, have also praised his bravery and called for a more inclusive environment in the sport.

The Guardian

Brown emphasized the need for cultural change within the AFL, advocating for the celebration of players who may not be the most successful but are significant role models in the community. He stated, “My advice to the AFL would be, let’s celebrate the players who may not be the most successful, but they’re the most important players in our community.” He hopes his coming out will inspire others in the league who may still be in the closet, assuring them, “I see you and you are not alone.”

Attitude - UKBBC NewsMitch Brown makes history as first male AFL player to come out as bisexual • GCNThe GuardianThe West AustralianWrong Mitch Brown issues statement after getting praise for West Coast’s Mitch Brown’s bisexual revealABC News129 Years, Zero Queer Men — Until Mitch Brown‘I’m in the space to do it’: Former Eagle Mitch Brown comes out as AFL’s first openly bisexual man

Experts in behavioral science, such as Dr. Erik Denison from Monash University, view Brown's announcement as a potential turning point for the AFL, which has lagged behind other major sports in terms of LGBTQ+ representation. Denison noted that Brown's candidness about the challenges faced in the sport could drive necessary changes at both the grassroots and professional levels.

ABC News

Mitch Brown's coming out marks a significant milestone in the history of the AFL, challenging the longstanding stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ identities in professional sports. His hope is that this moment will foster a safer and more inclusive environment for all players, encouraging them to embrace their true selves without fear of discrimination.

‘I’m in the space to do it’: Former Eagle Mitch Brown comes out as AFL’s first openly bisexual man