Taylor Walker agrees to significant sanctions following racist comment at SANFL match

Tom Naghten

Taylor Walker agrees to significant sanctions following racist comment at SANFL match image

Former Adelaide captain Taylor Walker has been sanctioned by the AFL following a racist comment made at a SANFL match last month.

On Friday, the AFL confirmed Walker would be excluded from the Crows' next six AFL matches, make a donation of $20,000 to a South Australian Indigenous program, undergo an education program, as well as apologise to both Adelaide and North Adelaide players for his conduct.

A Crows official overheard Walker make a comment to a teammate involved in the match about North Adelaide and former St Kilda player Robbie Young and reported the matter to the club who then informed the AFL.

Following a conciliation process involving Walker, Young, a Crows official and the AFL, a statement was released to confirm the agreed resolution.

Walker expressed his significant remorse and committed to further educating himself moving forward.

“There is no excuse or justification for the words I said. They are unacceptable and I take full accountability for that," Walker said.

"I am deeply ashamed. I did not intend to cause harm, but I know and understand that I have caused deep hurt to the official who reported the matter and to Robbie Young, to both of their families and to the wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. I apologise to all of them and to the Adelaide and North Adelaide Football Clubs.
 
"I ask that you respect the wish of the official who reported this matter not to be identified.

"Today’s process has led to a deeper understanding of the hurt that I have caused, and I am embarrassed, ashamed and remorseful. 

"The official who reported this showed courage and leadership in calling out what I said, and I am determined to do what I can to emulate his actions.

"I want to be an active participant in addressing racism in our game and the wider community. This starts by educating myself so I can influence others and make a positive difference moving forward.

"I know I need to back up my apology with action, and this is my commitment."

After several seasons in which Walker's on-field output declined, the 31-year-old had been enjoying a career renaissance in 2021, kicking 48 goals in 17 matches so far to have him second in the Coleman Medal standings.

He'll now miss this Saturday's Showdown against Port Adelaide, matches against Melbourne and North Melbourne, and the Crows' first three games in 2022.

Walker's current contract runs out at the end of next season.

AFL executive Tanya Hosch believes Walker understands the seriousness of the matter.

"Racist actions and behaviours are inexcusable," Hosch said.

"The AFL strongly condemns the racial vilification of our football community including our players, staff, and their families, across all levels of our game.

"I would like to acknowledge everyone involved in today’s conciliation process, especially the Adelaide official and Mr Young for calling out the behaviour and/or taking a stand against racism by their involvement in this process.

"I have no doubt Mr Walker is remorseful, understands that his comments can trigger trauma and seriously impact the mental health of the individuals, families and communities involved and he has accepted his sanctions."

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten Photo

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.