THE Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) is currently investigating an alleged racist incident which occured in the league’s summer netball competition semi-finals involving a Kilmore player.
The player was alleged to have made racist taunts at players from Fitzroy Stars following Kilmore’s semi-final win in the division eight competition last Friday week.
The incident was reported by umpires and the stadium court co-ordinator, and taken to the tribunal – independent of the NFNL, where a set penalty was initially offered, before being challenged.
The NFNL is now launching a complete review of the incident and the tribunal outcome.
“After an incident at a netball match on Friday, February 20, the NFNL offered a set penalty to a player, based on reported conduct. The player exercised their right to appeal and the NFNL presented the league’s case to the independent tribunal on Tuesday,” the league said on its website.
“The NFNL Board have decided to review the incident and the determination of the independent tribunal. This process may include hearing from all parties and relevant witnesses to the incident, as well as inquiring into their experience of the tribunal process to identify opportunities for improvement.
“The Board has a range of outcome options at the conclusion of the review which may include penalties, education, and a review of internal processes.
“In close conjunction with Netball Victoria, the NFNL continue to offer support to everyone involved and are working closely with the tribunal, the clubs and the players to ensure all parties are respected and treated fairly during the process.”
Kilmore released a club statement on Thursday saying it did not tolerate racism, while also being respectful of league processes.
“We acknowledge our own First Nations Peoples within our club community and committee and that of the Fitzroy Stars community who have expressed hurt in relation to recent matters,” they said.
“We recognise the seriousness of concerns involving racism and cultural safety, and we respect the importance of these issues for all communities, particularly First Nations peoples.
“We are working constructively and cooperatively with the Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) as it undertakes its processes.
“As this matter is currently being managed through appropriate league channels, it would not be appropriate for the club to comment on specific details.
“However, we wish to state clearly: Kilmore Football Netball Club has zero tolerance for racism, discrimination or vilification in any form.
“We are committed to fostering an environment that is culturally safe, inclusive and welcoming.”