Leigh Ryswyk makes AFL history with heartfelt coming out, receives outpouring of support

Former Brisbane Lions player Leigh Ryswyk has become the first current or former openly gay AFL player, sharing his story in a candid interview with Joy 94.9’s GayFL.

The 41-year-old played one AFL game for the Lions in 2005 before going on to a celebrated SANFL career with North Adelaide, playing 226 games between 2006 and 2018.

“To people who know me, this isn’t new,” Ryswyk told GayFL.

“I’ve been out for five years now. There will be people though … it will be the first time they know about this. I’m a very private person … and that’s fine. In the end, the people who are nearest and closest to me know, and that’s what’s most important.”

When asked why he chose now to come out, Ryswyk said simply: “Why not?”

Since the interview aired, reactions from fans, former players, and the LGBTIQA+ community have poured in, celebrating his bravery and the significance of his announcement.

“Congratulations Leigh! What you’ve done will change the world for the next generation. I know the community will show you endless love and support,” wrote AJ Ogilvy, a former NBL player for the Sydney Kings and Brisbane Bullets, who is also openly gay.

“So glad that you felt comfortable to share your story!”

“Congrats Leigh, heard your interview on air and it was hugely inspiring to those of us who are gay blokes and love footy too,” wrote one supporter on social media. “Good on ya for having this bravery to speak up.”

Other reactions highlighted the wider impact on Australian sport. Pride Football Australia said: “Congratulations and thanks, Leigh. AFL and sport more generally is a better and safer place for more people today than it was before.”

Ryswyk himself shared a heartfelt message of gratitude:

“For a long time, I kept a big part of who I am to myself. Opening up hasn’t been easy, but it’s been incredibly freeing. Footy has given me so much and I want to help make sure it’s a space where everyone feels safe to be themselves. If sharing my journey helps break down barriers … then that means everything to me.”

One social media user wrote: “A true legend. You’re part of history now. ❤️”

Host of Gay FL Chris Maher wrote: “The positive impact of your statement will ring through every locker room in the country from Auskick to the league. Never underestimate the power of one. You are the change the game needs!”

Former AFL player, Mitch Brown, who came out as bisexual last year, posted a statement about Ryswyk, saying “it takes real courage to step forward and choose to live openly and honestly, especially when you come from environments that haven’t always made that easy. This is what bravery looks like.”He continued: “Every time someone is brave enough to speak their truth, it creates a shift.”