Waratahs flanker fined for homophobic slur in clash with Brumbies
Monday 23 March 2015 15:09, UK
Waratahs flanker Jacques Potgieter has been fined US$15,540 for uttering a homophobic slur during Sunday’s Super Rugby match against the Brumbies in Sydney.
Australian Rugby Union chief executive Bill Pulver said: "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."
The ARU said half of the fine for the breach of the ARU Code of Conduct, which bans homophobic or racist comments, was suspended but Potgieter must undergo awareness education.
The sanction was decided after the matter was referred to the ARU by South Africa, New Zealand and Australian Rugby following a preliminary investigation.
The ARU adopted an inclusion policy last year aimed at stamping out homophobia and discrimination in rugby.
Pulver added: "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."
Potgieter has apologised for the incident saying: "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 said the matter would not go to a tribunal because the Waratahs and the Rugby Union Players' Association had accepted the penalty.
It has been reported that Brumbies’ forward David Pocock, who is a vocal advocate of same-sex marriage, complained to referee Craig Joubert about the slurs during the match.
