Kane Evans: A Story of Courage and Survival
"I set three goals: to play in the NRL, buy my parents a house, and take my own life."
On June 8, 2026, former professional rugby league player Kane Evans publicly came out as gay in an interview aired on Channel Nine's 100% Footy program. At 34 years old, he becomes only the second male player in professional Australian rugby league history to do so, following Ian Roberts in 1995.
Professional Career
Evans played professionally from 2014 to 2023, primarily as a prop forward. His NRL career spanned three clubs:
- Sydney Roosters (debuting in 2014, 74 games)
- Parramatta Eels (2018)
- New Zealand Warriors (2021)
In total, he made 131 NRL appearances, played 13 Test matches for Fiji, and concluded his professional career with Hull FC in the UK Super League in 2023.
His time at Hull FC ended abruptly when his contract was terminated early due to drinking issues. After returning to Australia, a failed business venture left him in debt and homeless.
Personal Struggles and Sobriety
In his emotional interview, Evans revealed he had struggled with his sexuality since approximately age 15. This internal conflict led to severe mental health challenges:
- Suicidal thoughts
- Substance abuse
- Blackmail from people threatening to expose his sexuality
"I was living in denial. I had three goals: to play in the NRL, buy my parents a house, and take my own life."
As of May 2026, Evans reported being over 130 days sober.
Support and Intervention
Joe Galuvao, a manager with the Rugby League Players Association's (RLPA) past players and transition program, played a pivotal role. He found Evans sleeping in parks and encouraged him to seek help. The RLPA assisted Evans in entering a rehabilitation facility.
Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson, who gave Evans his NRL debut, reached out after he completed rehabilitation. Robinson used personal funds to pay four weeks of Evans' rent and arranged for the club to help finance his mental health treatment.
Reactions from the Sporting Community
Ian Roberts, the first openly gay male player in the sport's history, said he was moved to tears watching the interview and expressed immense pride in Evans.
Anthony Minichiello, former Roosters captain, stated that Evans's coming out "may have just saved many lives."
Ben Cork, National Manager of Pride in Sport, praised Evans, noting that his visibility demonstrates inclusion in rugby league.
Mitch Brown, a former AFL player, commended Evans's vulnerability and said changing attitudes requires leadership from coaches and captains.
Hayley Conway, Pride Cup CEO, urged clubs to be "vocal in supporting players who want to be honest about their identity."
Historical Context
Evans' announcement follows a limited but growing history of LGBTQ+ visibility in Australian rugby:
- Ian Roberts came out in 1995
- Casey Conway, who played junior football, came out after his career ended due to injury
- Former NRL referee Matt Cecchin came out in 2012
In recent years, both the NRL and AFL have investigated and reprimanded players for homophobic slurs. Since 2024, at least seven incidents of homophobia have been recorded in the AFL, according to reports.
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, contact the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.