Former West Coast Eagle Mitch Brown has been met with an outpouring of support after revealing he is bisexual, becoming the first professional men’s AFL player to share that he is a member of the LGBTIQA+ community.
In a landmark interview with The Daily Aus, Brown shared that his sexuality played a big part in his decision to retire in 2016. Brown played 94 games for the West Coast Eagles between 2007 and 2016.
Brown’s announcement is timely, following a slate of incidents in men’s AFL involving players using homophobic slurs and language on the field.
Just this month, Adelaide Crows star Izak Rankine was slapped with a four game ban for hurling a slur towards a Collingwood player. The controversial decision led to outcry from critics and supporters of Rankine alike.
Team Perth, Western Australia’s peak body for LGBTQIA+ sport, is urging the AFL to take meaningful action in light of both the apparent culture of homophobia and Brown’s revelation.
Team Perth Chair Justin Barnes says Perth already has a blueprint to move forward, noting the West Coast Eagles’ partnership with local queer AFL squad Perth Hornets.
“Every club can replicate that, today,” Barnes told OUTinPerth.
“I’m elated for Mitch—and I want to stress that coming out is always the individual’s choice. Visibility should never become pressure.
“The men’s game still feels hyper-masculine for many. Culture change isn’t a themed round—it’s year-round education, leadership, and real protections.
Barnes says the AFL can turn this news into action by partnering with local LGBTQIA+ sporting organisations, which are both numerous and active around the country.
“It should never be about just a rainbow pride round. That does not fix internal culture and it is a single cog in the wheel of change”
AFL release statement on Brown’s announcement
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon shared a statement responding to Brown’s message on social media soon after the article’s release.
Dillon congratulated Brown for showing great courage in sharing his story and personal journey.
“This is an important moment for him, and for our entire game,” Dillon said.
“Today is a step forward, and building on Mitch’s story we hope that others feel encouraged to be their authentic selves and share their own journeys, and that these stories are met with support from teammates, clubs and the wider football community.
“The AFL will continue to partner with our clubs, our Pride and Allies groups and the LGBTQI+ community to drive and celebrate inclusion across both our AFL and AFLW competitions.
“Together, our commitment is to keep making football an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone to thrive — and that work never stops.”
