Carlton AFLW star Darcy Vescio has come out as non-binary, becoming the second player in the competition to do so.
"Just popping in to let you know that I am non-binary 🌈," Vescio posted on social media on Wednesday, saying they are most comfortable with they/them pronouns.
"Sharing this feels a bit daunting but brings me a lot of warmth and happiness."
Vescio's post attracted a great deal of praise on social media from sports fans and athletes alike.
Carlton women’s team coach Daniel Harford shared the post on Twitter with the caption: “Meet one of the most amazing people on the planet.”
"You are the best, love you 🌈 ❤️," wrote Vescio's teammate at Carlton, Maddy Prespakis.
"All the love DV," said Olympian and fellow AFLW player, Chloe Dalton.
The AFL updated its gender diversity policy last year to allow transgender people to play in community competitions of their transitioned gender, and non-binary athletes to play in the competition of their choice.
Tori Groves-Little officially became the AFLW’s first openly non-binary player earlier this year.
“To be the first in the AFLW environment is daunting and scary, but I’m comfortable in myself now and in my body, so if you’re confident it’s not as nerve-racking,” they told womens.afl.
“I hope I can educate people who fall into the community, but other allies as well … reach out and have a chat.”
