ST KILDA chief executive Matt Finnis concedes the AFL’s first openly gay player will need to withstand unique pressures and challenges.

But Finnis says the Saints are determined to smooth the path to increased diversity in football with their world-first Gay Pride game in Round 21.

Finnis and St Kilda defender Sam Gilbert were among a delegation of Saints that marched under the club’s colours at Sunday’s Gay Pride march in Fitzroy St, St Kilda.

St Kilda and Sydney will play in that Round 21 game as part of the Saints’ progressive outlook on social issues and promoting inclusiveness.

Finnis said on Sunday it was not the club’s intention to drag a player out into the open.

Instead, he wants to broadcast the message that anyone is welcome at St Kilda games.

Asked what would need to change for a gay footballer to come out, he conceded it was a “difficult issue”.

“With football there is so much scrutiny and media coverage. At the end of the day your sexuality is a very private matter,’’ Finnis said.

“So I think it’s important the industry sends a very strong message of belonging but ultimately there are so many pressures on footballers these days I don’t think we should bring someone out of the closet.

“For us the Pride Match is a wonderful opportunity ... a hero opportunity to say everyone belongs.

“The sad reality is for so many gay people they haven’t felt comfortable at the football.”

Gilbert has several gay friends and was particularly struck by the story of suburban footballer Jason Ball, who initially hid his sexuality from his teammates.

“He came down to the club and told us about his journey and it was something that touched me,” Gilbert said.

“This is my third year marching and I am just really proud of the club.”

Gilbert and his teammates recently voted on the St Kilda captaincy, which is likely to be announced this week.

He conceded the decision over whether Nick Riewoldt handed over to a younger teammate was incredibly tough.

“As far as Nick goes, he is the best captain I have ever seen and one of the best players I have ever seen,’’ Gilbert said.

“No matter who gets it he will be an extremely good leader around the club. In my opinion (the heir apparent) would be Jarryn Geary. He has got very good leadership kills and he speaks really well in front of the group and he speaks at the right time and I really like the way he goes about his footy.”