Football CEO apologises for racist booing from fans

In July 2015, one of the top Australian football players took a break from the sport after being the target of booing from crowds.

Now, the CEO of the Australian Football League (AFL) has apologised to Sydney Swans player and Indigenous man Adam Goodes for not doing enough to stop the booing. 

It is widely believed Goodes was subjected to the booing as a racist taunt from fans, following an Indigenous dance he performed on field and an incident where he called out a young girl in the crowd who labelled him an "ape."

In the AFL Annual Report released on Thursday, AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan detailed his belief that Goodes was booed due to his vocal stance on Indigenous issues. 

"Adam stood up to represent indigenous people and he took a stand on racism, and for this, I believe he was subject to hostility from some in our crowds," McLachlan wrote, according to the AFL. "As a game, we should have acted sooner and I am sorry we acted too slowly."

Supporters show their love for Goodes. Credit: Getty images

The incessant boos forced Goodes to miss two rounds of football, to not show his face at an honour lap for champions of the game at the grand final and to have his final year in the sport marred by the controversy. The issue caused wide-spread debate through the public and media regarding racism in sport. 

McLachlan said the public discourse made him realise the role sport can play in dealing with national issues. "The national conversation about racism taught me how important our role is to partner with all players to fight racism," he wrote.

Goodes performs an Indigenous dance. Credit: getty images

Goodes retired at the end of 2015, after playing 372 games and kicking 464 goals. He played in two premierships with the Sydney Swans and was awarded two Brownlow Medals, the highest honour in the game. He still hasn't been offered a proper farewell from the sport he dedicated his life to. 

"Adam has led with courage and humility and I look forward to the day our game can properly celebrate the retirement of this great champion," McLachlan added.

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