Weekly Times |
A COUNTRY footy fan faces a possible life ban after levelling racial abuse at an Aboriginal elder during the weekends indigenous recognition round.
Ballarat Aboriginal elder Ted Lovett, a former VFL player, was on the sidelines at last Saturday’s match between Darley and North Ballarat City, at Darley Park, when he was blasted by a supporter.
It is understood the abuse came after an argument broke out when Darley player Drew Edwards was sent off the field.
The same day, a 17-year-old Carngham-Linton footballer claimed he was vilified by a Dunnstown supporter.
And an under-17s football match between Lilydale and South Belgrave had to be called off at half-time last Sunday following a racial vilification incident.
Eastern Football League chief executive Phil Murton said umpires were surprised by the call.
“Circumstances surrounding the matter are being looked into by us … and sanctions will be handed out in due course,” he said.
Mr Lovett, a former champion footballer with North Ballarat, is no stranger to racism — even during events that are supposed to be about celebrating Aboriginal people.
In 2012, he received an anonymous letter during Reconciliation Week from someone complaining he should stop “whingeing”. The letter mocked indigenous beliefs.
Darley president Grant Wright slammed the actions of the supporter who used foul language towards Mr Lovett.
The man had admitted abusing Mr Lovett and was distressed and apologetic, he said.
“Hopefully, both parties can get together and we can …. repair some of the damage that’s been done, but that doesn’t mean that there will be no sanctions,” he said.
Mr Wright said racism was not tolerated in country footy in “any way, shape or form”.
