A woman accused of making an antisemitic comment during a children's netball match in Sydney's south will appear in court. Police were called to Heffron Park on Fitzgerald Avenue in Maroubra around 10am on Saturday following reports of offensive remarks directed at a group of individuals.
The alleged incident occurred during an under-12 game between the Maccabi and Saints netball clubs. Officers spoke with the 42-year-old woman and issued her a move-on direction at the scene.
On Sunday, police confirmed the woman had been served a Court Attendance Notice for using offensive language in or near a public place or school. The offence carries a maximum penalty of a $660 fine or a community corrections order. She is scheduled to appear at Waverley Local Court on Wednesday, June 17.
Netball NSW confirmed the woman has been banned from attending or participating in any netball activities while the matter is under investigation. “Antisemitism and discrimination of any kind have absolutely no place in our game and will not be tolerated,” the governing body stated.
In a social media post, the Saints Netball Club acknowledged the incident and apologised, noting that a supporter allegedly made “comments of an antisemitic nature directed at players of a competing club which is associated with the Jewish community.” The club added, “The Saints Netball Club unequivocally condemns and disavows antisemitism in all its forms. Such remarks do not reflect the values, principles or standards of our club, our members, our players or our wider community.”
Jenny Morrissey, president of the Randwick Netball Association (RNA), said netball is a sport where “everyone is welcome and we will not tolerate antisemitic or discriminatory behaviour in our community in any way.” She noted that police were called immediately upon receiving the reports. Morrissey added that the RNA is also investigating the incident and prioritising care for the Maccabi Netball Club and its members.
