Mitch Brown has become the first player in VFL/AFL history to openly identify as bisexual, describing his decision as one that has finally brought him “peace, but more importantly, comfort and confidence”.
The 36-year-old, who played 94 games across a decade with West Coast, shared his story in an interview with The Daily Aus, explaining how a culture of “hyper-masculinity” in the game left him suppressing his sexuality during his playing career.
‘Not about me, but the second person’
Brown revealed he had become “very, very good” at hiding parts of himself after experiencing “countless” homophobic comments on the field. He said his announcement was not about being a first, but about giving others the courage to follow.
“I don’t believe that this is about me. It’s not about Mitch Brown being the first at all. For me, it’s about sharing my experience so others can feel seen,” he told The Daily Aus. “The reactions that I hope for are the ones I won’t hear. They’re the ones of those young men around Australia going, I feel seen, I feel a little bit safer, and I have a role model.”
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The AFL praised Brown’s honesty, with chief executive Andrew Dillon saying: “Mitch has shown great courage today in sharing his story and personal journey. This is an important moment for him, and for our entire game.”
Fremantle captain Alex Pearce also voiced support on Instagram, calling Brown’s announcement “courageous” and saying the sport “should provide a safe environment for everyone”.
Health Equity Matters boss Dash Heath-Paynter hailed the move as “historic”, adding: “For over a century of AFL competition, no male player has identified as openly bisexual or gay. Mitch’s announcement breaks through decades of silence.”