Many backgrounds create one magnificent game

The reputation of Australian football supporters as inclusive and tolerant people has taken a hit over the past couple of years.

Unfortunately a select few xenophobic bigots belonging to a glorified hate group have tarnished this reputation even further with the unveiling of offensive banners at AFL games over the last fortnight.

And just like the recent booing of one of our game’s greats, I take solace in the fact that it is just a small, uneducated minority taking part in this latest discrimination.

I fear that the attention that this has received could result in young people with multicultural and different religious backgrounds becoming disenfranchised with our great game.

But in order for our sport to grow we should be celebrating their contribution and the unique skills and attributes they bring to the game both on and off the field.

We should be hearing more about the AFL National Diversity Championships, which took place in Townsville last week.

It has been a great success and provides a talented AFL pathway for not only players but also, coaches, umpires, doctors and trainers to an elite AFL environment.

The game would be poorer without players like Nic Naitanui, Adam Saad and Jason Johannisen.

Everyone has the right to feel safe and included with their involvement in this great sport, be it as a participant, volunteer or supporter, regardless of gender, race or religious background.

Twitter – @JClark182