The NRL Integrity Unit will launch an investigation into racist online abuse of Roosters star Latrell Mitchell as players speak out against social media trolls.
Mitchell was one of several players to be targeted via social media over the weekend, with CEO Todd Greenberg labelling derogatory comments about the Indigenous powerhouse as "disgusting".
NRL.com understands that should the proponent of Mitchell’s abuse be identified as a club member, they would face having their membership revoked along with being banned from attending NRL games.
"Racism must be called out in all its forms because the standard you walk past is the standard you accept," Greenberg said.
"I commend Latrell for doing just that. These comments are disgusting and have no place in our game.
"What I love about rugby league is the diverse cultures and backgrounds it brings together. The heritage of our players is what makes our game so special.
"Incidents like this show why our school programs like In League In Harmony and Indigenous rounds are so important to educate the next generation about inclusion.
Thompson responds to racial abuse levelled at Latrell
"There is no place for any sort of abuse on social media towards our players or their families."
While not of a racial nature, Wests Tigers winger Paul Momirovski and Cowboys forward Josh McGuire were also subjected to online abuse following matches played last weekend.
More to come
Noticed Latrell posting about this on Instagram last night, many were writing in to support him. Glad the NRL are following up to try and find those responsible. We ask players to open up with the media and social media just for cowards to anonymously abuse them 24/7 without any consequence
Mitchell was one of several players to be targeted via social media over the weekend, with CEO Todd Greenberg labelling derogatory comments about the Indigenous powerhouse as "disgusting".
NRL.com understands that should the proponent of Mitchell’s abuse be identified as a club member, they would face having their membership revoked along with being banned from attending NRL games.
"Racism must be called out in all its forms because the standard you walk past is the standard you accept," Greenberg said.
"I commend Latrell for doing just that. These comments are disgusting and have no place in our game.
"What I love about rugby league is the diverse cultures and backgrounds it brings together. The heritage of our players is what makes our game so special.
"Incidents like this show why our school programs like In League In Harmony and Indigenous rounds are so important to educate the next generation about inclusion.
Thompson responds to racial abuse levelled at Latrell
"There is no place for any sort of abuse on social media towards our players or their families."
While not of a racial nature, Wests Tigers winger Paul Momirovski and Cowboys forward Josh McGuire were also subjected to online abuse following matches played last weekend.
More to come
Noticed Latrell posting about this on Instagram last night, many were writing in to support him. Glad the NRL are following up to try and find those responsible. We ask players to open up with the media and social media just for cowards to anonymously abuse them 24/7 without any consequence
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