The Sydney Swans, the latest in a long line of people and institutions to be “incredibly disappointed” with Eddie McGuire, have released a statement condemning him for comments he made about the coin toss before a match at the SCG last night.
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Before the Swans took on the Adelaide Crows, respected journalist and double amputee Cynthia Banham appeared to struggle during the coin toss, leading McGuire to comment that those who fumble the pre-match ritual should be fined $5000.
He later apologised “unreservedly”, but has still been heavily criticised, including by the Swans, who released a statement late last night, supporting Banham and saying that they are upset by McGuire’s “ignorant” comments.
The Sydney Swans are incredibly disappointed by inappropriate comments made tonight by Eddie McGuire.
— Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans) March 29, 2019
In their statement, the club wrote:
The Sydney Swans are incredibly disappointed by inappropriate comments made tonight by Eddie McGuire. The comments show not only a lack of empathy, but also ignorance. Cynthia Banham is a passionate Sydney Swans member, our number one ticket holder, and a courageous woman who is an inspiration to all of us at the club.
She was one of the key figures behind our Diversity Action Plan. Regardless of who is invited to toss the coin, they are doing so by invitation and as a recognition of their love of the sport or a club. It is a tradition that should be celebrated. We are extremely proud that Cynthia was there to toss the coin for our first home game at the SCG this season.
You can watch McGuire’s apology below:
Eddie McGuire’s apology on Fox Footy tonight regarding comments he made of the coin toss. pic.twitter.com/7975b22Es9
— Rhett Bartlett (@rhettrospective) March 29, 2019
