Fremantle captain Matthew Pavlich has recorded a message to fans that will air on the big screen ahead of Sunday’s game against GWS at Domain Stadium urging them to remain respectful.
The video urges fans to continue their respectful behaviour and remain good sports in the wake of the Adam Goodes situation in recent weeks.
“As a Fremantle player it is always an honour, a privilege and a great thrill to play at Domain Stadium in front of a passionate Freo crowd,” Pavlich said in the video.
“As supporters, you ride every bump and kick and want to express your joy or, at times, your frustration.
“You always do it with respect.
“As a club, we pride ourselves on being good sports both on and off the field.
So please, be a good sport today and every time we play.”
Pavlich, who is president of the AFL Players’ Association, and his fellow 17 club captains released a joint statement today to the Australian football public via the Herald-Sun newspaper.
Speaking on behalf of more than 800 AFL players, the captains voiced their strong dislike of the recent treatment of Adam Goodes.
“Enjoy the game, celebrate the success. But don’t boo, jeer or taunt players because of who they are or what they stand for,” the statement said.
“We’re all human. We’re all in this together. And together we can make a difference.
“We encourage supporters to demonstrate zero tolerance and report any behaviour which vilifies a person on the basis of their personal characteristics, such as race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. We would encourage every other fan to follow suit.”
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The 18 captains urged fans to “call out” inappropriate behaviour at games.
“As captains, teammates, and supporters of the game, we know how motivating the cheer and
roar of a crowd can be. We also know how demoralising and offensive booing and jeering is,” they said.
“As leaders we are accountable for everything we do on and off the field, and we think it’s just as important for us to be accountable and call out unacceptable behaviour when we see it. And sadly this week we have all seen it.
“When you come to the footy, join us in putting a stop to offensive behaviour.”
