Ellia Green’s Courageous Return To Rugby With Sydney Convicts

Following his change to male status, Australian gold medalist Ellia Green joined the Sydney Convicts team in the New South Wales Suburban Rugby Competition.

Green joined the Sydney Convicts for their men's New South Wales Suburban Rugby Competition after formally retiring as a professional rugby player in 2021 and coming out as transgender in 2022. This is the first time he has ever played rugby league as a man, marking two significant life milestones.

When his side won the coveted gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Green, a key member of the Australian women's rugby sevens squad, had an incredible victory.

Despite subsequently announcing his retirement over personal difficulties, Green chose to abandon his athletic career after being cut from the Tokyo 2020 roster. Green showed a lot of bravery by openly announcing his transition and being candid about his mental health. 

At the inclusive 2022 Bingham Cup international rugby tournament, which also actively promoted LGBT communities, he shared his life experience. Through his development, he illustrated the importance of mental health and character strength for athletes.

Green has returned to the Sydney Convicts field feeling completely rejuvenated. He talked about how playing for the Sydney Convicts gave him the familial ties he always found in rugby, and he showed extreme joy and motivation restoration. 

Green thanked his teammates for their support and his return to competition in his Instagram post, which also conveyed his excitement.

Green and his partner, Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts, have a three-year-old daughter named Waitui. Green uses his platform to educate and inspire others about transgender acceptance in society and sports.