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4h ago

Mitch Brown Becomes AFL’s First Openly Bisexual Male Player

He cites a hyper-masculine locker-room culture as evidence the code needs systemic change.

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PERTH, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 05: Mitchell Brown of the Eagles celebrates a goal during the round three AFL match between the West Coast Eagles and the St Kilda Saints at Patersons Stadium on April 5, 2014 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The former West Coast defender, 36, told The Daily Aus that hiding his sexuality was a "huge" factor in retiring at 28 after 94 AFL games.
  • He described a "hyper-masculine" environment, recalling a teammate saying he would rather be in a cage of lions than shower next to a gay man.
  • Brown said closeted gay and bisexual players are in the league now and hopes his visibility creates safety and space for others.
  • His announcement follows a run of homophobic slur cases, including Adelaide’s Izak Rankine receiving a four‑match ban last week, with Brown urging reforms beyond suspension length.
  • Support poured in from his ex‑wife Shae Bolton‑Brown, his current partner, clubs and athletes, while Health Equity Matters called the moment a historic step for inclusion.