Aussie rules football player Rhyian Anderson-Morley has decided to come out as gay in a bid to change perceptions of homosexuality within sport.
The 23-year-old told The Age that he wanted to go public with his sexuality after hearing homophobic language in the dressing room.
"I knew that some people might not like the idea of playing with a gay bloke, and I didn't want to upset the team atmosphere, especially when I was just trying to learn the ropes," said Anderson-Morley.
"And it makes me ask, should I have walked into this club waving a rainbow flag? Would it have caused as much drama as some people seem to think?
"Perhaps knowing a gay bloke was at the club would get them to have a look at themselves and what they say."
Anderson-Morley, who previously made an appearance on Australia's The Voice, plays for semi-professional team Yarraville Seddon Eagles Football Club.
Written by
Danielle Joynson
Danielle Joynson
