Concern At Anger And Abuse Over Rugby

Women’s Refuge says the level of abuse and anger over the World Cup rugby loss should serve as a wake-up call about the behaviour and attitudes of some New Zealanders.

On the eve of the return of many of the All Blacks, the chief executive of the National Collective of Independent Refuges, Heather Henare, is calling on people to examine their own behaviour following Sunday’s loss to France.

“It’s quite disturbing to hear the level of abuse and anger of some people as a result of the game.”

“We’re hearing it in calls to talkback and seeing it on blogs. It is being directed at rugby players, officials, the referee and anyone else some people seem to want to take their disappointment out on.”

“It’s really sad to hear that at least one young All Black from Waikato has voiced concern about the reaction they will face when they arrive back in New Zealand tomorrow.”

“If the sort of anger we’re hearing directed towards our supposed sports heroes is reflected in how some of these people also treat their families then that’s a real concern.”

Ms Henare says the current publicity campaign being run about domestic violence is a timely reminder for people to examine their behaviours and attitudes, and the impact of it on those around them.

“Women and children often become the targets of frustration and anger.”

“It’s also a real worry children are hearing this sort of abuse and behaviour and that they might get the idea that this is an acceptable way to react.”

Ms Henare says while she understands the disappointment of many rugby fans, it’s no excuse for poor behaviour.

ENDS

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