AFLW star Tayla Harris says she was subjected to “sexual abuse on social media” following publication of a picture of her playing for Carlton.
Harris says she’s repulsed by some online comments regarding the picture of her kicking at goal.
“The comments I saw were sexual abuse, if you can call it that, because it was repulsive and it made me uncomfortable,” Harris told RSN radio on Wednesday.
“That is what I would consider sexual abuse on social media.”
Harris called for the AFL and possibly police to take action.
The photo of Harris was published by, among others, the Seven Network on social media.
Seven deleted the post, citing “reprehensible” comments.
The network later reinstated the Harris photo and apologised for withdrawing it after being criticised for giving in to online trolls.
“I don’t want to give oxygen to the trolls but one thing that happened to come to my mind through all this … I saw the comments,” Harris said.
“I know I shouldn’t read them but it’s hard not to … and I can see in people’s profile pictures that they have kids or they have got daughters, or there are women in their photos – and that is the stuff that I’m worried about.
“So perhaps this is an issue that might even have to go further because if these people are saying things like this to someone they don’t know on a public platform, what are they saying behind closed doors, and what are they doing?
“These people need to be called out by the AFL, yes, but also taken further – maybe this is the start of domestic violence, maybe this is the start of abuse.”
AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan was pleased the trolls were being held to account.
“There is negativity in lots of aspects of our game and the community. It’s an open platform so that can happen,” McLachlan told reporters in Sydney.
“But when it’s unacceptable commentary, more and more people are calling that out – and that’s what’s happened here.”
Penster
Roar Guru
Yeah, they reposted for the backlash. 7AFL has a feral following on Facebook (I don't follow this stuff, find the platform a bit lowest common denominator). Didn't realise you can't delete on Twitter. Backlash for an elite athlete because she's female ye gods this is so bad.
jeznez
Roar Guru
What a fantastic athlete and I’m impressed by her response. The concern for others is brilliant to see. To a section of my fellow males. If you can’t behave civilly then put a parental lock in place and have the most important woman in your life vet your comments when you are on line. Pull your heads in
Harry
Guest
Your an inspiration Tayla come play for the Magpies please !
Mister Football
Roar Guru
Dobbed it from 45m (most of the blokes who complain most about womens footy would struggle from that distance).
Col from Brissie
Roar Guru
AD, I think they reposted it because of the backlash they received for deleting it.
Downsey
Roar Pro
Haw-haw! Thigh-slapping humour. The problem is, when you and the rest of your comically-talented mates make similar commentary, it leads to people who would sexually harass others believing their behaviour is legitimised.
Liam Salter
Roar Guru
If you repeat what was being commented online at the football, and I'm in earshot, I'd be getting security and reporting you to them + whatever club you support (which might be difficult as you appear to not have a particular allegiance to anyone, but that's beside the point). I understand the logic of sledging, but this controversy proves that there's sledging and there's going way too far. It's a vital distinction, and it's one that a lot of the AFL support base needs to learn as the online commentary surrounding this issue indicates.
Liam Salter
Roar Guru
Correct, you can't. To be fair, 7AFL's account did apologise for deleting the picture and reposted it later in the night.
Cat
Roar Guru
And how does the AFL 'find out who they are'? They have no legal standing to force anyone to turn over any data.
Fat Toad
Roar Rookie
Funny, when I first saw the image, my first thought was "great, someone in the AFLW who really kicks through the ball", they should use it as an instructional image.
Joel Shepherd
Roar Guru
At the very least the AFL could consider treating these people the same way they treat fans who racially abuse players on the field. I'd guess some percentage of the commenters will be AFL club members -- find out who they are and ban them. The AFL is a private entity, it has the right to enforce its own moral standards and refuse entry or membership to anyone who violates its standards. Same thing here.
Brad
Guest
Well I would like to say that she is really hot but worried it might be considered sexual harassment
anon
Roar Pro
If I'm close enough to the boundary I will "sledge" players I don't like. Obviously there are lines you don't cross, but you can say things to get inside their heads and throw them off their game. All part of giving your side an advantage. I've paid my money and entitled to do so. Been part of the attending sport since sporting leagues were conceived.
anon
Roar Pro
Sexually harassed, not sexually abused. Did Ross Lyon sexually abuse a woman or sexually harass her?
Col from Brissie
Roar Guru
Penster. from what I know about Twitter (which isn’t much) I believe you cannot delete another persons tweet.
Hoy
Roar Guru
My god its a cracking photo! Everything about the picture of this young lady is as amazing as she obviously is. The actual kick itself was a cracking roost as well. I just don't understand why anyone would have a negative thought about this athlete. What do they get out of commenting negatively? I honestly don't get it. But man, that photo!!! Should be in every sports bar in the country!!
Slane
Guest
Great comment Your Holiness.
Penster
Roar Guru
The term "sexual abuse" is an umbrella term and includes physical and verbal abuse of a sexual nature. And it's far more insidious than sledging mate. You sledge at the footy, security will take you away.
Pope Paul VII
Roar Rookie
There were definitely lewd comments. They were comments by mature age males. Thanks for pointing out the difference between physical sexual abuse and mere verbal sexual abuse. These silly women can't tell the difference. And sexual abuse is just an occupational hazard for females too so get over it. They'll be glad you cleared that up. Actually you do raise a good point re AFL players and sledging and whether it should be treated as an occupational hazard. The amount of abuse they cop from nuffies online more than over the fence who wouldn't last a second if they crossed the line, is appalling. They should also be deleted.
big four sticks
Guest
Cancel my subscription proud boy I am over your issues. She was sexually harassed and it’s disgusting.