The article is written by Briana Fiore.

It is about the AFL.

It was published on Thu 23 Jul 2026 at 6:12am.

Leigh Ryswyk is the first AFL player to say he is gay.

Here is a short summary:

Leigh Ryswyk wants fans to be respectful during the Adelaide and Collingwood game.

Izak Rankine will play against Collingwood for the first time since he used a bad word.

What happens next?

Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks also wants fans to be respectful.

Leigh Ryswyk has never taken his partner to a football event.

Players in straight relationships might not think about this, but it can be hard for LGBTQIA+ athletes.

Leigh Ryswyk made history by saying he is gay.

He felt emotional when he said it on the radio.

It has been a fun and great experience.

Leigh Ryswyk wants fans to be respectful during the game.

Leigh Ryswyk is asking fans to behave.

Izak Rankine will play against Collingwood for the first time since he said a bad word.

Izak Rankine was banned for four games and said sorry.

Last time Adelaide played Collingwood, some fans booed.

Leigh Ryswyk thinks the booing was unfair.

Izak Rankine was banned for four matches.

Leigh Ryswyk thinks it is time to move on.

He thinks Izak Rankine has learned from his mistake.

Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks also wants fans to behave.

Matthew Nicks wants fans to enjoy the game and be respectful.

This is a step in the right direction.

Many queer people have seen discrimination in sports.

Leigh Ryswyk thinks progress has been made in sports.

Leigh Ryswyk spoke to North Melbourne players.

The North Melbourne Football Club invited Leigh Ryswyk to talk about LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

Leigh Ryswyk is happy to talk to other clubs.

Leigh Ryswyk's teammates have been very supportive.

Leigh Ryswyk wants to help queer kids feel comfortable in sports.

He wants to help others be themselves.

Leigh Ryswyk designed a pride jumper for his club.

The club wore rainbow arm bands to celebrate pride.

Leigh Ryswyk wants to talk about inclusion and diversity.

His partner felt comfortable at the pride game.

Leigh Ryswyk will take his partner to the end of year football event.

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