Former West Coast Eagles player Mitch Brown has publicly condemned Newman Carey for remarks made about the AFL Women's League (AFWL), calling them disrespectful and harmful to the progress of women's football. Brown, who played 108 games for West Coast and Geelong, expressed his disappointment on social media, stating that such comments undermine the efforts of female athletes and the league's growth.
Carey, a former AFL player, had criticized the AFWL's standard of play and suggested that resources were being wasted. Brown responded by highlighting the importance of supporting women's sport and the need for former players to be role models in promoting equality. He emphasized that the AFWL has inspired countless young girls and deserves respect.
The AFL community has rallied behind Brown's stance, with several current and former players voicing their support. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about sexism in sport and the responsibility of public figures in shaping attitudes. Brown's comments have been praised as a stand against outdated views.
