The Yass Minor Rugby League Club has released a statement via its Facebook page following an incident involving allegations of racial abuse.
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The club said on Saturday, September 19, that it had "been subjected to social media commentary" following the resolution of racial vilification allegations earlier in the month.
On August 30, charges were levelled at YMRL following an incident during an Under 11s game.
The club said it "openly and actively" participated in the formal complaint process which was then undertaken by Canberra Region Rugby League's Disciplinary Review Committee.
Statements from both clubs involved were provided on September 2, YMRL said, and the CRRL found that the allegation could not be substantiated based on the evidence provided.
Following this outcome, a social media post was made which, YMRL claimed, was "riddled with misinformation and character assassination of our club".
The post, which was made via a personal Facebook page, has also prompted a response from the CRRL, which said it had reviewed reactions to the decision from its Disciplinary Review Committee on Facebook.
"The CRRL wishes to reinforce its opposition to racial vilification of any kind and matters brought to the league will be investigated under its current processes," CRRL chairman, Gary Green, said in a statement.
"The CRRL asks all people to remember that we are dealing with children of all ages who are playing the game they enjoy and that matches at the grounds, run by volunteers, should be free from any external disturbances.
"The League has committed to working with the Human Rights Commission to review its processes for allegations of racial vilification (including the current allegation) for all ages and to develop a mediation and education framework to ensure the rights of the individual are heard and to ensure that there are positive outcomes for all concerned. Canberra Raiders Board Member and Chair of the NRL Indigenous Council, Katrina Fanning, has also committed to working with the CRRL in developing its framework protocols.
"The CRRL also commits to consulting with our stakeholders in the development of this framework in conjunction with the Human Rights Commission."
The YMRL said the post was "disappointing" and unfair towards all children involved with junior rugby league clubs.
"YMRL and the broader Yass Community has a deep and proud cultural history. To be subjected to such unfounded vilification is not only disappointing to all current and past members, including Life Members, Patrons and Elders, it is unhelpful, unwarranted and unjust towards the kids of all Clubs," the club said.
"YMRL reminds all parties that this is for the KIDS and their active engagement in sport and social participation..
"YMRL wishes all the KIDS and Clubs participating in the upcoming Finals series good luck and heaps of fun.."
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