CSA Provides the Goodes

By Tony Salerno

The commission’s ‘Racism. It stops with me’ campaign and the ‘Play By the Rules’ program have joined forces after Goodes was abused by a Collingwood fan during Sydney’s win against the Magpies as part of Indigenous round.

The Swans superstar is one of the Indigenous heroes at the forefront of the partnership, as he believes initiative needs to be taken after the girl’s comments marred the game at the MCG.

“The win, the first of its kind in 13 years, to win by 47 points against Collingwood and (for me) to play such a pivotal role just sort of means nothing,” Goodes said.

The announcements will encourage audiences to reflect on past racist taunts and provide knowledge on how they can counteract the abuse and will be nationally broadcasted until the end of the home and away season.

Play By the Rules Co-Chairman, Graeme Innes said: “Sport is all about having fun, competing safely and getting a fair go, regardless of your skin colour, background or culture. Whether you’re a player, spectator, coach or official, there is simply no place for racism or discrimination in sport.”

AFL Chief Executive Andrew Demetriou praised the conduct of Sydney Swans player Adam Goodes and the AFL community in response to the racial vilification incident at last night’s game at the MCG.

He also urged people to show sensitivity toward the spectator involved due to her young age and immaturity.

“This one-off incident involving a thoughtless, ignorant and incredibly hurtful comment from a spectator was obviously disappointing, particularly at the start of the AFL’s Indigenous Round,” Mr Demetriou said.

“Discrimination and vilification in any form has no place in our game and Adam Goodes has again demonstrated his leadership qualities by standing up to it. He is a wonderful ambassador for our game and an inspiring leader for the Indigenous community.”

At the same time, the AFL community immediately rallied behind him in an extraordinary but not surprising display of support and solidarity.

 “In particular I want to single out the immediate and emphatic response from Collingwood FC President Eddie McGuire and his Club, who last night extended an apology and expressed support for Adam.

 “Throughout this week we have saluted Nicky Winmar’s iconic gesture of pride 20 years ago and last night demonstrated that racial vilification is not only unacceptable but will not be tolerated in our game – on both sides of the fence.

“It was also a reminder that we must remain vigilant and continue our efforts to raise awareness about the hurt and damage that is caused by vilification.” 

 “Indigenous Round is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary contribution made to our game over many years by Indigenous Australians and the overwhelming response to this isolated incident reaffirms that commitment.”

“We all have a role to play in stamping out ignorance and vilification, and I urge all parents to speak with their children about the lessons that emerge from this regrettable matter.”

Click here to watch the community service announcement