Waratahs’ Jacques Potgieter Fined $20k For Using Homophobic Slurs

Following on from the revelations that Brumbies vice captain, relentless campaigner for the things he believes in, and general all-around legend David Pocock had registered official objections to match referees about homophobic slurs being used on the field during Sunday’s clash against the Waratahs, the ARU has handed down a $20,000 to Waratah back-rower Jacques Potgieter for breaching its code of conduct.

Pocock had informed the match umpires of the slurs during the Brumbies 23-18 loss to the ‘Tahs, after he heard slurs being used that were alleged to have included the word “faggot.”
The Australian Rugby Union, in consultation with SANZAR, this afternoon levelled the fine to Potgieter, who reportedly owned up to being the perpetrator of the slurs. The $20,000 fine includes a suspended portion of $10,000. Potgieter will also have to undertake additional awareness training as part of his punishment.
Potgieter, the ‘Tahs marquee international player, issued a statement displaying his remorse.

“I’m very sorry for any offence caused by what I said on the field during a heated encounter. It was an offhand remark made without thought for the hurt it could cause to those around me.”


The ARU, whose swift and decisive verdict on the matter is absolutely to be commended, stated that Potgieter’s actions represented a clear violation of their code of conduct and inclusion policy, and contravenes the Anti-Homophobia and Inclusion Framework, of which the ARU is a signatory to.

ARU Chief Executive Bill Pulver confirmed Potgieter’s fine in a statement, and reiterated the league’s firm stance on homophobia.

“We take the issue of homophobia in sport seriously and want to provide a positive environment for everyone involved in Rugby. Comments of this nature cannot be tolerated. Our Inclusion Policy reinforces Australian Rugby’s commitment to ensure every individual, whether they’re players, supporters, coaches or administrators, feel safe, welcome and included regardless of race, gender or sexuality. I’d like to stress again that there is absolutely no place for homophobia or any form of discrimination in our game and our actions and words on and off the field must reflect that.”


The way this has been handled should stand as an example for all Australian sport at all levels. From Pocock standing up on-field to call out something that absolutely was not right, to the ARU taking action so swiftly. Sport has a supreme ability to act as an agent of societal change and acceptance. If every code had people like David Pocock in it, we’d be well on the way to being a much better place.

It’s an unfortunate, ugly incident, and it’s upsetting to have seen it occur. But the way that it’s been handled – at all levels – is dead set worthy of applause.
Photo: Cameron Spencer via Getty Images.

via SMH.

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