Racism is wrecking AFL, says Eddie Betts

Betts speaks out after fan made racial slurs on social media.

Adelaide Crows player Eddie Betts reacts.

Eddie Betts says racist comments are destroying the AFL. Source: AAP

Adelaide star Eddie Betts says racism is wrecking the enjoyment of the AFL.

Betts said "enough is enough" after being subjected to more racial abuse from fans during the Showdown with Port Adelaide last weekend.

"Stuff like this wrecks it," Betts told Adelaide radio station 5AA on Thursday.

"We want to make footy an enjoyable place and support your team, win or lose.
"There is racial abuse ... it's not kid-friendly. It's just not a great place to be."

A woman has been charged by police after she labelled Betts an "ape" on social media, after the Crows beat the Power last Saturday.

A Port fan had his club membership rescinded for making a racial taunt during the game, while an Adelaide fan racially abused Port ruckman Paddy Ryder during the match.
Port Adelaide Power player Patrick Ryder
Port Adelaide star Paddy Ryder has accepted a one-match ban for striking. (AAP) Source: AAP
"Enough is enough," Betts said.

"It's racism and we want to stomp it out of the game.

"It affects me but it affects people around me more.

"Anna, my wife, was very upset with it this week, just the hatred of it. She was teary.

"Our kids are indigenous and they will have to grow up with this stuff as well."

Last August, a Port supporter threw a banana at Betts during a game and had her membership cancelled.

Betts said the latest furore had been tough to handle but he was grateful for widespread support.
AFL chief Gillon McLachlan pledged to do more to combat racism while the Adelaide and Port Adelaide clubs issued a joint message in a bid to end racial vilification.

The AFL Players' Association and various AFL identities also spoke out in support of Betts and Ryder.

"The support that has been shown to me and my family by both footy clubs, the players' association, has been fantastic," Betts said.

"And the AFL with (chief executive) Gillon McLachlan calling me three days ago before his press conference.

"I thank everyone for their support."

Hear take on the Betts/Ryder racism row tonight at 7:30pm on NITV (Ch.34).


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2 min read
Published 13 April 2017 2:48pm
Updated 13 April 2017 3:57pm


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