Overview
- The former West Coast defender told The Daily Aus the AFL environment was “hyper‑masculine” and recalled teammates saying they would rather shower next to lions than a gay man.
- He said the strain of concealing his sexuality was a significant factor in retiring at 28.
- West Coast and several clubs voiced support, while advocacy group Health Equity Matters called the announcement a landmark for visibility.
- The disclosure follows multiple bans for homophobic language, including a four‑match suspension for Adelaide’s Izak Rankine, as Brown urges systemic cultural change over a focus on penalty lengths.
- Brown said closeted players are in the league today and offered them the message, “I see you and you are not alone,” noting strong backing from ex‑wife Shae Bolton and his current partner.