This week’s AFL headlines have been all about the Izak Rankine case.. bans, appeals, and endless legal back and forth. But beyond the footy chatter, the real issue is being overlooked: the impact of homophobic slurs.

Christian hands the mic to Rio, a lifelong AFL fan and gay man, who shares why the debate over “weeks vs. games” misses the point and how these words shape culture, silence players, and push fans away from the game they love.

A powerful, personal conversation about accountability, inclusion, and why actions matter more than punishments.

This episode discusses homophobic language and the impacts on the LGBTQ+ community. If this raises any issues for you, support is available. You can contact QLife on 1800 184 527 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.