Mitch Brown Makes AFL History by Coming Out as Bisexual
Hey everyone, have you heard about Mitch Brown? Former West Coast Eagles player Mitch Brown has made history in the AFL by becoming the league’s first openly bisexual man. It’s a huge moment, not just for him personally, but for Australian sport as a whole.
Mitch played 94 games for the Eagles between 2007 and 2016. During that time, he kept a big part of himself hidden. He’s shared that questions about his sexuality were “buried” for over a decade, and the weight of hiding who he really was played a part in his decision to retire at just 28. It’s something many people don’t realize — being closeted in a high-pressure, hyper-masculine environment like the AFL can take a serious toll.
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He’s spoken about how difficult it was growing up and playing in a culture that made it nearly impossible to question your sexuality. Mitch recalled a conversation between teammates where one said they’d “rather be in a cage full of lions than have a shower next to a gay man.” Those kinds of attitudes were commonplace, and they shaped the environment he navigated every day.
Even now, he believes there are current AFL players who are gay or bisexual but aren’t ready to come out. His message to them is simple: “I see you, and you are not alone.” Mitch hopes that by sharing his story, he can create a sense of safety and comfort for others. He wants young players, and anyone struggling with identity, to feel seen and supported.
The response to his announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Health Equity Matters, a national federation supporting LGBTQIA+ communities, praised his courage and honesty, saying that his story will give confidence to many Australians confronting similar questions about their identity. Pride Cup CEO Hayley Conway also called it a “significant moment” for sports in Australia, highlighting how important safe and inclusive environments are for everyone.
Mitch himself emphasizes that this isn’t about him being the first; it’s about paving the way for others to feel like they belong. On his personal Instagram, he wrote about feeling confident and supported and hopes his story inspires even one person.
This is a landmark moment for the AFL. It’s a reminder that courage comes in many forms — not just running into a pack on the field, but standing up and living authentically. Mitch Brown’s story is a step toward change, showing that Australian football can be a space where everyone belongs, no matter who they are.
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