June 12, 2023
The South Burnett Rugby League has lodged an official complaint after Under 15s players were allegedly racially abused during a match at Gatton on Saturday.
The Under 15s and Under 16s South Burnett Eagles travelled to the Cahill Park Sports Complex at Gatton to take on teams from the Gatton Eagles in Round 7 of the Toowoomba Junior Rugby League competition.
In an official notice published on its social media page, the SBRL said it would not tolerate the behaviour that was displayed.
“(We) have lodged formal complaints to the governing bodies regarding the behaviour our U15s players were subjected to,” the notice read.
“Contact has been made with the other coaching parties and leagues involved to ensure there is a full, proper investigation completed.
“We do not tolerate abuse, vilification or derogatory remarks being made in our game, and will take all appropriate steps to ensure that our players have the opportunity to play the game that they love in a safe, respectful and enjoyable environment.”
The Under 15 South Burnett Eagles have been enjoying a recent winning streak in the TJRL competition, but were defeated 20-6 by Gatton on Saturday.
The Under 16s South Burnett side got revenge, defeating the Gatton side 26-10.
Absolutely disgusting behaviour, it takes skill but it’s also a privilege to be selected from their local clubs for the competition.
May the consequences involve the cancellation of any perpetrator’s team!
I agree, Cynthia. Racists need to be stomped on as soon as they out themselves. The South Burnett is a multi-racial community and the more diverse we get, the better.