Abo Indigenous stars to grill footy racists

[European blood]

FOOTY racists could front a tribunal led by some of the greatest Aborigines to have played the game.

Under the radical proposal, footballers or spectators accused of vilification would be grilled by the panel of former indigenous stars.

Hawks forward Cyril Rioli also wants heftier fines and increased security at games to stop the ugly incidents.

The proposal follows the alleged racial abuse of former St Kilda player Allan Murray in a suburban clash at the weekend.

And it comes as Collingwood prepares to launch a campaign to stop its fans sledging opposition players.

Wurundjeri elder Joy Wandin Murphy yesterday led calls for the AFL to create a justice system to help ensure intolerance was wiped out.

"We should have a tribunal where the perpetrator comes before the panel and they ask them the tough questions," she said.

"He or she has to front. It's not just about an apology or being fined or being banned. It's about learning how the remarks make people feel."

Rioli, who was yesterday among indigenous guests attending the book launch for Legends - The AFL Indigenous Team of the Century, said racism was still an issue for indigenous players.

"I've never copped it but there have obviously been a few more incidents this year," he said.

"This year has been a big year for racism and I guess there needs to be more reminding. Maybe hefty fines and increasing the security around the ground, 'cause it's not on."

Essendon legend Michael Long said education was important.

"Clubs and players have to embrace it," he said.

"It's one of those things you won't completely eradicate but we have come a long way."

An AFL Players' Association spokesman yesterday said abusive behaviour from the sidelines was unacceptable.

The association hoped its recent anti-vilification program launched in partnership with the Herald Sun would help renew the message.

"Like everyone in the community we are disappointed to hear of instances where vilification still occurs," the spokesman said.

http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/...-1226115507905

[Loddfafner]

I misunderstood the title of this thread. Anyways I assumed that abos would boil racists rather than grill them.