Former West Coast Eagles Player Mitch Brown Reflects on Becoming AFL’s First Out Bisexual Man: “Overwhelmed by Kindness”

In a historic move for Australian sport, former West Coast Eagles player Mitch Brown has publicly come out as bisexual, marking the first time a male player in Australian Football League (AFL) history has openly identified as bisexual. Brown’s announcement, made earlier this week, has been widely hailed as a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ inclusion in professional athletics. The response from the football community, fans, and the wider public has been overwhelmingly supportive, with Brown expressing his gratitude for the “kindness” shown to him and his family since he shared his story .

Brown, who played for the West Coast Eagles over several seasons, took to social media to make his announcement. In his heartfelt reflection, he described the decision as deeply personal, adding that he hoped his openness would help foster greater acceptance for bisexual and other LGBTQ+ athletes. “We have been overwhelmed by kindness,” Brown wrote, emphasizing the positive messages and gestures of support he and his family have received since coming out .

He also highlighted the important role his family has played in his journey, noting that their backing has been “unwavering” and that their acceptance gave him the strength to share his story publicly. “To be embraced by those closest to me, and then by the wider football world, means more than I can say,” Brown reflected in his statement .

The West Coast Eagles, Brown’s former club, responded within hours of his announcement with a public message of support. On the club’s official social media channels, the organization posted, “We love you, Mitch!”—a gesture that was quickly echoed by fans and other members of the AFL community .

AFL leadership also added their voices to the chorus of support. The league’s chief executive commended Brown’s courage and expressed hope that his openness would encourage others to be themselves within the sporting world. “We are committed to making Australian football a space where everyone feels safe and respected,” the AFL’s statement read, noting ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion throughout the league .

Brown’s decision to come out has sparked meaningful conversations about the experiences of bisexual athletes and the broader LGBTQ+ community in professional sports. Advocates and LGBTQ+ organizations across Australia have welcomed the announcement, noting that greater visibility for bisexual and other LGBTQ+ identities helps challenge stereotypes and reduce stigma.

“Representation matters, and Mitch Brown’s story is a powerful reminder that our sporting heroes come from all backgrounds and identities,” commented a spokesperson for a leading Australian LGBTQ+ advocacy group. “His courage will inspire others—young and old—who may be struggling with their own sense of belonging” .

LGBTQ+ athletes have historically faced unique challenges in the world of professional sports, including discrimination, invisibility, and pressure to conform to traditional gender and sexuality norms. Brown’s coming out is seen as an important milestone in the ongoing effort to build inclusive sporting environments where all players can be authentic and supported.

In addition to sharing his personal journey, Brown has called for a broader cultural shift within the AFL and sporting communities at large. He highlighted the need for ongoing education, allyship, and policies that protect and celebrate diversity. “There is still work to do to ensure everyone feels safe to be themselves, both on and off the field,” Brown stated, urging clubs, coaches, and fans to continue fostering environments where LGBTQ+ individuals are respected and valued .

The AFL has previously implemented a number of diversity and inclusion initiatives, including Pride Games and educational programs. However, advocates note that visible leadership from players like Brown is essential to sustaining momentum and driving real change within the culture of the sport.

Reactions from current and former AFL players have been overwhelmingly positive, with many taking to social media and public forums to voice their support. Several teammates described Brown as “brave” and “inspiring,” while others called for continued focus on mental health and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ athletes.

Public response has also been largely affirming, with fans expressing gratitude for Brown’s openness and sharing their own stories of acceptance and support. Social media platforms have seen widespread messages of celebration, with hashtags related to Brown’s announcement trending across Australia .

Brown’s coming out marks a significant milestone for the AFL, but advocates stress that the journey toward full inclusion is ongoing. Continued education, visibility, and policy development are key to ensuring that all athletes—regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity—feel safe, respected, and empowered to thrive.

In his closing remarks, Brown expressed hope that his story would help make the path easier for future generations of LGBTQ+ athletes. “If sharing my truth helps even one person feel less alone, it’s worth it,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to advocating for positive change in the world of sport .

As the AFL community continues to celebrate Brown’s courage and leadership, many are hopeful that this moment will serve as a catalyst for greater acceptance, equality, and pride—both on and off the field.