AFL Central Victoria has reiterated the importance of positive spectator behaviour following “unacceptable” comments made at a game last Saturday.
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AFLCV released a statement on Thursday “encouraging our fans to support their teams with passion, but always from a point of view of respect for the participants, umpires and people around them”.
The statement came five days after “unacceptable” spectator comments towards Bridgewater’s Rick Ladson while playing against Newbridge.
Newbridge acknowledges “unacceptable comments were made by an unknown person in the crowd”, with last Saturday’s match coming in the wake of Ladson having opened up during the week about his mental health struggles as part of his involvement with the AFL beyondblue Cup between Hawthorn and Sydney at the MCG on Friday night.
Ladson didn’t wish to comment on the issue on Thursday, but wanted to reiterate his key message of “if you’re struggling, talk to someone about it”.
Newbridge president Kristian Shevlin said the Maroons had “worked closely with the opposition club and player to identify and address the unacceptable comments”.
“With the information provided we have not been able to identify the person responsible, but make it very clear that we are confident the comment was not made by a member or supporter of our club,” Shevlin said.
“We have confirmed that no comment was made on the field by any player and that this unacceptable comment was from a person in the crowd.
“At its core, footy is about having fun, whether watching or playing our game. If you want to show respect for your team, make sure your behaviour is a positive reflection on your club and the game. Paying the entry price does not entitle people to leave their morals and ethics behind for the duration of the match.”
Shevlin said the Maroons supported the LVFNL’s Code of Conduct for spectators and was continuing an internal investigation to identify the person in the crowd.
AFLCV regional manager Carol Cathcart said all spectators had a responsibility to ensure enjoyable participation in a safe and positive environment.
“We are reminding spectators at all games in the region to respect players, umpires and other fans during games and stamp out inappropriate comments and bad behaviour,” Cathcart said.