WALKER BANNED FOR SIX WEEKS
ADELAIDE star Taylor Walker is “deeply ashamed” after being suspended for six games and being fined $20,000 for making a racist comment at a SANFL game.
The AFL issued the sanction to Walker on Friday – a day after he apologised to North Adelaide’s Robbie Young for making a racial slur to him at a July 17 match at Prospect Oval between the Crows’ reserves and North Adelaide.
Walker said there was no excuse nor justification for the words he said, calling them unacceptable and saying he would take full accountability.
“I am deeply ashamed,” Walker said. “I did not intend to cause harm, but I know and understand that I have caused deep hurt to the official who reported the matter and to Robbie Young, to both of their families and to the wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
“I apologise to all of them and to the Adelaide and North Adelaide football clubs.”
Walker, a spectator, made the racist comment about Young at a quarter-time huddle of the Crows SANFL reserves game against the Roosters.
He was overheard and reported by a Crows official. Young did not hear the comment.
Walker met with Young, the Crows official and the AFL on Thursday.
“I ask that you respect the wish of the official who reported this matter not to be identified,” Walker said. “Today’s process has led to a deeper understanding of the hurt that I have caused, and I am embarrassed, ashamed and remorseful. The official who reported this showed courage and leadership in calling out what I said, and I am determined to do what I can to emulate his actions.
“I want to be an active participant in addressing racism in our game and the wider community. This starts by educating myself so I can influence others and make a positive difference moving forward.
“I know I need to back up my apology with action, and this is my commitment.”
Walker will pay the $20,000 to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Program in South Australia. He will also undertake an education program.
Crows chief executive
Tim Silvers said the club supported the sanctions from the AFL.
“This incident should not have happened and we are sorry that it did, and we endorse and support the sanctions,” he said in a statement.
Walker met with the Crows’ Indigenous players before addressing the playing group and football staff on Friday.
The AFL said Walker would also be expected to front North Adelaide players to apologise.
AFLPA CEO Paul Marsh said Walker’s language was damaging and divisive and there was no excuse for it.
“In my conversations with Tex, he has expressed his sincere and genuine remorse and has owned and apologised for his actions,” he said.