AFL FANS ASSOCIATION (AFLFA): “GIVING FOOTY FANS A VOICE”
The AFL Fans Association says there is no excuse for Adelaide player Izak Rankine’s homophobic slur, which has resulted in a four match suspension.
Ron Issko, President of the AFL Fans Association said, “Players are well aware of the AFL’s stance on homophobic slurs, and it is right that strong sanctions apply. There is no place for this language in footy or in society. Just as the AFL must be uncompromising in addressing on-field violence, it must also be uncompromising when it comes to vilification that drives people away from the game.”
AFL Fans Association Patron, LGBTQIA+ and Mental Health Advocate Jason Ball said the impact of such language goes far beyond one player missing games. “Homophobic language in football does not just affect the person it’s directed at. It creates an environment where LGBTQIA+ players and fans feel unwelcome or unsafe. Many never even get the chance to participate fully in the sport, because they walk away before reaching their potential.”
Jason also reflected on his own experience saying, “As a young footballer, hearing homophobic slurs made me feel like I didn’t belong and kept me from coming out for years. My story reflects what many LGBTQIA+ athletes go through: we love the game, but the culture tells us we don’t belong in it.”
The Free to Exist report (2024) found young LGBTQIA+ Australians are 50 percent less likely to join sporting clubs compared with their non-LGBTQIA+ peers.
Jason said this is the hidden cost of homophobic language, “It drives thousands of kids away from sport altogether. Sanctions are important, but education from grassroots through to elite sport is critical if we want real change. Players, clubs, and fans need to understand the impact words can have. Creating a culture of respect and inclusion will not only keep kids in the game but will strengthen footy as a whole.”
Ron said, “the AFLFA supports an inclusive environment where all fans, players and officials feel welcome. Whilst fans may have different views on an appropriate sanction for this incident, we seek consistency from the AFL in applying penalties for all relevant vilification matters whilst taking into account the individual circumstances of each incident.”
AFLFA membership is free, and fans are encouraged to join at www.aflfans.org.au
More information: Email: media@aflfans.org.au.