Australian rugby players boycott game after team unveils LGBT ‘pride’ jersey

Seven players from a Sydney-based rugby team told the team coach that they would not participate in a recent game since the team’s new jersey incorporated the LGBT flag.  

Speaking at a press conference Monday, Manly Warringah Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler said that seven players – Josh Aloiai, Jason Saab, Christian Tuipulotu, Josh Schuster, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tolutau Koula and Toafofoa Sipley – chose not to play for cultural and religious reasons. The Daily Telegraph reported that several first-time players also declined to play in Thursday’s upcoming game against the Sydney Roosters. 

Hasler told reporters Tuesday that he respects the players’ decision not to play. “The players will not play on Thursday and we accept their decision,” Hasler said. “These young men are strong in their beliefs and convictions and we will give them the space and support they require.” 

Hasler also stated that the announcement of the jersey was executed poorly, calling it a “significant mistake.”  

According to Hassler, neither the team nor the team’s stakeholders were consulted about the jersey until the Sea Eagles announced it to the media Monday as part of its Everybody in League initiative. 

Peter V’landys, chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission, told reporters that while he also respects the players’ choice, he still desires to push inclusion in the sport. “One thing I take pride in with rugby league is we treat everyone the same,” V’landys said. “It doesn’t matter your color, sexual orientation or race. We’re all equal.” 

“We’ll never take a backward step in having our sport inclusive. But at the same time we will not disrespect our players’ freedoms,” he added. 

National Rugby League (NRL) regulations dictate that all players wear matching uniforms, preventing the players from wearing alternate jerseys for the match against the Roosters. Manly was the only team that announced that it would use a pride-themed jersey this year, the Associated Press reported. 

Following their announcement, the players have been subject to criticism online, being branded as bigoted and homophobic. 

A similar incident occurred last month in the United States. The Tampa Bay Rays announced early last month that players would use pride-themed jerseys for “Pride Night,” yet five pitchers refused to play in protest, citing their Christian faith. The pitchers were subsequently labeled as bigots by a reporter on ESPN. 

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