A senior police officer has drawn criticism for labelling the participation of trans women in women’s sports cheating in a Facebook post.
The transgender athlete took part in a women’s game this past weekend in the Adelaide Footy League, an amateur AFL league, prompting the South Australian police officer to write the statement.
The league eventually withdrew his remarks after being “sickened” by them, according to CEO John Kernahan.
So it would seem that competing versus women, guys have no physical edge! This is absurd, the officer said.
How is it appropriate for a male to play a violent sport like football against women yet he can’t swim against a woman? It’s scientific and dishonest, not transphobic.
The SANFL and the Adelaide Football League must genuinely show courage and take a stand.
This is unacceptable. They are making many others uncomfortable by making one person comfortable.
The head of football said that instead than demeaning other people, the public should be praising their right to play the game.
Mr. Kernahan expressed his disappointment and even disgust to the Adelaide Advertiser.
“We don’t see why somebody would impose such virulent, if not antiquated, attitudes on someone trying to make their way in life.
“We talk about mental health awareness, yet these remarks appear to contradict that,”
Additionally, Mr. Kernahan required that the league supported each and every qualifying player.
“Any player who is qualified to play may participate in the Adelaide Footy League.”
“Our catchphrase is building communities via football.” Where else can people from all backgrounds go to play football if not the league?
The SA Police claimed to be aware of the social media postings and to be looking into them.
South Australia Police observes that these remarks represent a person’s own viewpoint.
“SA Police is a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone is secure, respected, and helped to realise their potential.”
“We are aware of the social media post, and the Ethical and Professional Standards Branch is now looking into the situation,” the statement reads.