Former NRL hardman Kane Evans has become only the second male player in league history to publicly come out as gay.
The former Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Warriors prop revealed his sexuality during an emotional interview on 100% Footy.
Evans, who played 131 NRL games, represented Fiji on 13 occasions and made 23 appearances for Hull FC in the Super League, said he had spent much of his life hiding who he truly was.
The 33-year-old admitted he had known he was gay since his teenage years but felt compelled to suppress his identity, leading him down a destructive path.
“I had three goals in life,” Evans said.
“And it was to play NRL. To buy my parents a house, and then I wanted to top myself, because I was living in denial from a young age.
“I know that. I know that I’m gay. But I went down every other avenue to build up these walls. To be someone, to escape who I am.”
He spoke candidly about years of substance abuse, homelessness and mental health struggles, saying he had been “fighting a war within” since he was 15.
The former front-rower also revealed he had faced repeated threats from people attempting to expose his sexuality, claiming some had tried to blackmail or “out” him over the years.
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With support from the Rugby League Players Association, Evans eventually sought professional help and entered rehabilitation.
He celebrated more than four months of sobriety in May and credits that journey with helping him find the strength to finally share his story publicly.
“I still can’t believe that I’m here talking to you,” he told James Bracey.
“This is definitely my worst nightmare. But I know if I surrender, its just going to be a start to a new life”.
Evans said he hopes his decision will encourage others facing similar struggles to seek help and live authentically.
“I know that there’s people who are struggling with the same struggle that I’ve gone through. So I’m very blessed that I can come here and talk to you, and be able to save a life or two.”
“I feel peace within,” he said.
“I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”
If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78.
