Shae Bolton-Brown’s emotional message after ex-husband Mitch Brown comes out as AFL’s first bisexual player

Mitch Brown has made AFL history as the first openly bisexual male player, sending a powerful message about courage and authenticity in Australian sport. The former West Coast Eagles star, who played 96 games between 2007 and 2016, navigated a hyper-masculine environment, making his revelation a landmark moment. His announcement has sparked widespread attention, opening conversations about inclusivity and safety for young athletes in the league. Mitch's ex-wife Shae Bolton-Brown praised his bravery with a heartfelt message reflecting their 16-year journey together.Shae Bolton-Brown, his ex-wife and former partner, shared a heartfelt message reflecting on their 16-year journey together. She wrote: “I for one couldn't be prouder of Mitch and will celebrate his vulnerability loudly so hopefully those baby athletes currently playing in the AFL feel seen and safe and can be every little bit of their weird... and so our kids can too.” She reflected on how both built identities around being “the netballer and the footballer,” often at the expense of self-discovery. “The blaring discrepancy for me, mostly, netball was a place of safety. For Mitch, mostly, football was not,” she added.Bolton-Brown also described how Brown encouraged her to apply to lead Super Netball’s new team, and together they envisioned “a place of inclusivity, a place to be boldly you (unapologetically), a place where your strengths were celebrated and your heart was protected.” She added: “Because here's the thing: sport has a secret power. It can be a source of joy and belonging, and in a world that could do with a little more of both, that's enough to get me out of bed in the morning.”Mitch Brown’s coming out is a transformative moment for Australian sport, challenging homophobia and encouraging young athletes to embrace their identities openly. Supported by Shae Bolton-Brown’s public praise, his journey demonstrates how authenticity and vulnerability can reshape professional sports culture, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.Also read: Tiana Mangakahia passes away at 30: Inside the star player’s career, family, net worth and brave cancer battle