Leigh Ryswyk is a former AFL and SANFL footballer, keynote speaker, and passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sport and the workplace. With more than 220 SANFL games and an AFL debut with the Brisbane Lions, Leigh has experienced first-hand the pressures, expectations, and culture of elite sporting environments at all levels.
In March 2026, Leigh publicly came out as gay, becoming the first past or present male AFL player to do so. His courageous decision sparked national conversations about inclusion, visibility, and belonging in Australian sport, inspiring countless people to embrace their authentic selves.
Today, Leigh uses his story to challenge assumptions, break down barriers, and help organisations create cultures where everyone feels seen, valued, and respected. From keynote presentations and leadership forums to university events, Pride celebrations, and sporting conferences, Leigh combines personal storytelling with practical insights on courage, resilience, inclusive leadership, and cultural change.
A driving force behind community initiatives such as the first Pride Game in the Barossa Light & Gawler Football Association, Leigh believes sport has the power to unite communities and create meaningful social change. His presentations are honest, engaging, and deeply human, leaving audiences inspired to lead with authenticity and create environments where people can truly thrive.
Testimonials
Leigh has been a pleasure to work with through Pride in Sport. He brings warmth, authenticity and a unique perspective as the first male AFL player to come out as gay publicly. Leigh connects effortlessly with audiences, sharing his story with honesty and heart while making complex issues relatable and engaging. We highly recommend him as a keynote speaker, panel guest or event contributor and look forward to seeing his impact continue to grow.
Ben Cork, National Program Manager, Pride In Sport
Leigh's decision to share his authentic self has had a powerful impact across sport and workplaces. I've heard him speak on podcasts and at events with executives, athletes and community leaders, and his honesty always resonates. Leigh is an engaging, articulate communicator who combines lived experience with genuine insight, warmth and lasting impact.
Daniel Lawlor, Diversity & Inclusion Lead, Adelaide University Sport and Fitness
Leigh brought a refreshing and highly engaging presence to our Executive Leaders Network event in Adelaide. His ability to share personal experiences with candour, humour and purpose created a genuine connection with the audience and sparked meaningful discussion among senior leaders. Leigh combines strong communication skills with a deep commitment to community and inclusion, making him equally effective in keynote, panel and interview-style conversations. He is a natural storyteller and a compelling speaker who consistently leaves audiences reflecting on how they can create positive change in their own spheres of influence.
CB Bonnar, Relationship Manager, Pride in Diversity (VIC & SA)
Leigh was an exceptional contributor to our Pride in Diversity Executive Leaders Network event, combining lived experience, leadership insight and engaging storytelling. His authenticity and warmth created thought-provoking yet accessible conversations that resonated strongly with senior executives. Leigh's reflections on allyship, leadership and positive change left audiences inspired, while his practical perspective ensured meaningful and actionable takeaways.
Andrew Georgiou, Acting Associate Director People & VIC State Lead, Pride in Diversity
