Retired AFL legend Eddie Betts has shared distressing footage of his children being subjected to racist abuse while playing basketball.
The former player on Thursday posted the home security footage to social media, showing a white car driving by as the children played.
A male is heard repeatedly shouting a racial slur as the car goes by, before the children leave the court.
“Aboriginal kids deserve to be able to play safely, free from racism and abuse over the fence,” Betts wrote on Instagram.
“We are not even safe in our own homes.
“If you know who this is please let me them know that I’m open to having a chat about how much this hurts our kids.”
The post drew messages of support for the AFL great and horrified reactions, with the Western Bulldogs commenting: “Disgraceful. Sending love Eddie.”
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge further addressed the incident at his weekly press conference on Friday morning, saying the attack made him angry and emotional.
“Obviously, as a club … everyone has put something out there to express their support and love and concern for the Betts family,” Beveridge said.
“Quite simply, it just makes my blood boil.
“Everyone feels the same. I hope everyone does.”
The AFL Players’ Association offered support, calling the incident awful.
“No one should ever have to experience this. We stand with you Eddie,” the group wrote.
Federal MP for Higgins, in Melbourne’s southeast, Michelle Ananda-Rajah said she had experienced similar situations.
“As a person of colour, I have dealt with this too,” she said.
“Now I stare down the haters. The children belong here, they make our community more vibrant and stronger.
“They should not fear being here, there are many good people who condemn this behaviour.”
Melbourne player Christian Petracca was also among commenters, calling the racial attack disgusting and saying he was thinking of Betts and his family.
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