In a groundbreaking moment for the Australian Football League (AFL), former player Mitch Brown has become the first openly bisexual man in the league’s 129-year history. Brown, who played 94 matches for the West Coast Eagles from 2007 to 2016, revealed his sexuality in an interview with The Daily Aus, expressing hope that his decision will foster a more inclusive environment in professional sports.
Brown’s announcement comes amid a backdrop of “hyper-masculinity” in the AFL, a culture he describes as rife with homophobic comments and attitudes. “I played in the AFL for 10 years for the West Coast Eagles, and I’m a bisexual man,” Brown stated, emphasizing the personal burden of concealing his identity throughout his career.
The Weight of Secrecy
Brown recounted the immense pressure he felt to hide his sexuality, which he says significantly influenced his decision to retire. “The weight of hiding my sexuality played a huge part in my decision to retire,” he shared. This revelation followed his reaction to recent homophobic incidents within the AFL, prompting him to speak out.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Brown noted the lack of safe spaces to explore one’s identity within the AFL. “It was never once an opportunity to speak openly or explore your feelings or questions in a safe way,” he remarked, highlighting the pervasive culture of silence surrounding LGBTQ+ issues in the sport.
Challenging the Status Quo
Brown’s candidness about the homophobic culture he endured could signal a pivotal shift in the AFL’s locker rooms. According to Erik Denison, a researcher at Monash University, Brown’s approach is unique. “Brown is taking a very different approach than other players in that he is being very open about the problems that need to change in his sport,” Denison explained.
“This is an historic moment for world sport because the AFL is the last major professional sport to be without an openly gay or bisexual male player,” Denison added. “Brown’s announcement will help drive change to culture and behaviour at clubs around Australia.”
Denison draws a parallel to former American football player David Kopay, who came out as the first gay professional athlete in the NFL 50 years ago. While Kopay’s revelation was a landmark, Denison is optimistic that Brown’s announcement will have a more profound impact on the AFL’s culture.
Calls for Change
The announcement follows several high-profile homophobic incidents in the AFL, including a recent case involving Adelaide Crows player Izak Rankine, who was banned for four weeks for using a homophobic slur. Brown addressed these incidents, advocating for a shift towards celebrating positive male role models in the league.
“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,” Brown urged. He believes there are still closeted gay and bisexual players in the AFL and encouraged fans to show empathy and support.
“I see you and you are not alone,” Brown shared, offering a message of solidarity to those who may still feel unable to come forward.
Looking Forward
Brown, now 36, is in a relationship with a female partner and was previously married to former netball player Shae Bolton, with whom he shares two sons. His personal journey and public declaration are poised to inspire change both within the AFL and the broader sporting community.
The AFL has yet to respond officially to Brown’s announcement, but the implications of his coming out could be far-reaching, potentially influencing policy changes and fostering a more inclusive environment for future players. As the league grapples with its cultural challenges, Brown’s courage may serve as a catalyst for a more accepting and supportive sporting world.
