Channel 7 commentator and former AFLW star Kate McCarthy has publicly condemned online trolls who continue to target her with abuse because of her gender. McCarthy, an inaugural member of the Brisbane Lions AFLW team and an All-Australian in 2017, enjoyed a successful seven-year career across three clubs before retiring at the end of the 2022 season.
Transition to Media
After hanging up her boots, McCarthy transitioned into sports media, becoming a prominent voice in AFL coverage. She works for Channel 7, is part of the Triple M commentary team, and contributes to AFL Media's Round So Far program. Her insights are widely respected, but her gender has made her a target for relentless online abuse.
Triggering Incident
On a recent episode of Round So Far, McCarthy made a point about protecting umpires from contact during stoppages. She suggested that stronger penalties—such as suspensions or a free kick plus a 50-metre penalty—might deter players from endangering officials, given the risk of serious injury. The comment, a valid contribution to a hot topic, sparked a torrent of abusive messages.
McCarthy's Response
McCarthy posted screenshots of the abuse on social media and followed up with a powerful statement. “I am actually so f***ing sick of being abused for having an opinion on football. Most of the time based purely around the fact that I’m a woman,” she wrote. She acknowledged that the words might seem trivial to some, but “when it happens every f***ing day/week it takes a toll.”
She emphasised her right to present opinions fairly and balanced, and called for respectful debate. “But to constantly be abused and diminished because of my gender is completely f***ed. Social media isn’t a license to abuse people and hide behind a keyboard. Leave me alone and continue scrolling if you don’t agree with me and can’t have a respectful debate on the topic.”
Broader Impact
McCarthy's experience highlights the persistent issue of gender-based harassment faced by women in sports media. Despite her credentials and achievements, she continues to face attacks simply for being a woman voicing an opinion. Her public stand encourages others to call out such behaviour and promotes a culture of respect in online discourse.
