ZCZC
BSP-14
RUGBYU-SUPER-NZL-RSA-CRUSADERS
Crusaders deny ‘homophobic’ incident in South Africa
WELLINGTON, May 20, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – The Canterbury Crusaders on Monday
denied allegations made on social media that players and staff were involved
in homophobic taunting during a row at a fast food restaurant in South
Africa.
The incident allegedly took place in Cape Town late Saturday after the
Super Rugby side’s 19-19 draw with the Western Stormers.
Twitter user @adamlennoxx alleged the Crusaders group mocked him and his
friends when they entered the restaurant, then began recording them “because
we looked funny”.
When questioned about their conduct, he said the rugby group resorted to
“homophobic slurs, limp wrists and high-pitched voices”, also threatening
physical abuse.
Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge said in a statement that the
club was aware of the accusations but disputed the version of events
circulating on social media.
“The three players, team management and the South African-based security
advisor with them, strongly refute the socialised account of what happened,”
he said.
“They are devastated by the allegation and the implication of homophobic
behaviour.”
Mansbridge said the Crusaders organisation was proud to have earned
certification from the Rainbow Tick charity for its commitment to diversity,
which “makes these allegations particularly distressing”.
“Given the serious nature of these allegations I will be meeting with the
team management and players on their return to Christchurch,” Mansbridge
said.
“However, I am confident in the account that we have received from the
team and the security advisor who was present.”
Rugby’s attitude towards gays is under the spotlight after the Australian
Rugby union sacked star Wallabies Israel Folau over homophobic social media
posts.
BSS/AFP/RY/12:55 hrs