Dear Members,
It is with increasing concern that we address an issue that has no place in our game, our community, or society as a whole, the use of racial language and slurs being disguised as ‘banter’ during matches.
Let us be absolutely clear, racial slurs are not banter. They are harmful, offensive, and completely unacceptable. There is no circumstance where using racially charged language to “get under the skin” of an opponent is appropriate. Hills Football operates on values of respect, inclusion, and integrity and any behaviour that undermines those values will not be tolerated.
Over recent weeks, we have received multiple reports of players—particularly young players using language with racial undertones directed at others on the field. Whether intentional or not, this behaviour causes real harm and must stop immediately.
To the parents and guardians receiving this memo we urge you to have a conversation with your children. Many of these comments are made by players who may not fully understand the weight of their words. This is a critical opportunity for education. Talk to your kids about the impact of racial language and the importance of treating every person on and off the field with dignity and respect.
Hills Football remains committed to ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of background. Any incidents involving racial abuse will be taken seriously and dealt with under our disciplinary framework which may carry heavy sanctions.
This is a shared responsibility. Let’s work together to ensure that every player, referee, coach, and spectator feels safe and respected when they step onto a football field.
Kind regards,
Hills Football
