Football SA writes this statement in response to an article published on Adelaide Now on Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 October 2021.
Football SA does not tolerate racism in any form or discrimination of any nature.
An investigation was undertaken by Football SA after reviewing footage from a senior game held between Modbury Jets and Playford City on Saturday 9 October.
This incident was reported by the media as a racial matter that sparked an all-in brawl. This was not the case. The on-field altercation followed a contentious challenge for the ball prior to half time. The words said by Mr. Natale were not directed to a player on the field of play (or any other player) and were not said, or intended to be said, in a racist manner or with any racist meaning or connotation. It found the words were directed to Playford City Team officials who were standing up off their team bench and acting in an agitated manner in response to the on-field incident. A formal complaint to The Advertiser for incorrect reporting will be made in the coming days.
In regards to claims the governing body requires an overhaul of its Disciplinary Committee, the Disciplinary Committee is an independent group comprised of individuals from a diverse professional, ethnic and gender-based background who volunteer their time to support the game. Decisions are based on merit and the conduct of the group is unquestionable. We are governed by a set a set of rules and regulations including disciplinary regulations that set out minimum and maximum penalties for breaches of codes of conduct and rules. All regulations are reviewed annually by a further independent group of highly skilled professionals from a diverse background to ensure they are constantly refreshed.
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