The booing started as Isaac Quaynor seized a loose ball just 10 seconds into last week’s match between Adelaide and Collingwood. Fans targeted not only Quaynor but also Billy Frampton, a previous Crows player, and Dan Houston, who had leveled Izak Rankine in his last appearance as a Port Adelaide player. However, Quaynor faced the brunt of the jeers, fueled by the history between him and Adelaide and his frequent possession of the ball.
Fan Reactions and Historical Context
Lingering resentment over the handling of Rankine’s homophobic slur last August was evident among the crowd. Local broadcaster Stephen “I think they’re a bit dirty ‘cos he sooky-sooky la-lahed, and rightly so,” Rowe had anticipated a barrage of boos ahead of the game, stating, “boo us if you must, we’ve heard it all before” in a conversation with Eddie McGuire. It’s crucial to note that a considerable number of fans in the Adelaide crowd did not participate in the booing. Many Crows supporters may have been oblivious, embarrassed, appalled, or indifferent to the situation.
Impact on Performance and Coaching Perspectives
The booing, however, proved counterproductive, as it had in the qualifying final last year; the more Quaynor was booed, the better he performed. Collingwood thrives in such atmospheres, treating Adelaide Oval as a second home. The club is adept at communicating with both their supporters and the opposition, often emphasizing how the venue complements their defensive strategy. They welcome the boos, proclaiming, “I teach my children that we don’t boo,”
Following the match, Collingwood coach Craig McRae condemned the booing as nonsense. He questioned whether Collingwood would exercise the same judgment if fans from their own side faced similar treatment, recalling their history of addressing such matters, particularly in the cases of Lance Franklin and Jason Horne-Francis. McRae, who frequently engages with fans during press conferences, stated, “If you or someone else is being vilified, we want you to speak up. We’ll back you to the hilt. And we’ll come down like a ton of bricks on the people who boo you because of it.” He notably refrained from saying “Don’t be a sook, don’t be a bore, and don’t be an asshole. It’s not hard.” instead urging his diverse supporter base to reflect on their actions.
“It’s not ideal,” acknowledged Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks, who was tasked with explaining both his team’s game plan and the unsavory aspects of his fanbase shortly after a disappointing defeat. However, the moment required more than just a defense of the respectful majority; his club’s statement attempted to address the passionate fans while reprimanding the foolish few. The AFL reiterated its claim that its supporters are the “best in the world,” a vague assertion that seems to overshadow other sports’ dedicated followers. Patrick Dangerfield, a former players’ union leader, spoke about the necessity of fans having an outlet for their daily pressures but later walked back his comments.
Every booing controversy inevitably brings the Adam Goodes saga to the forefront of discussions, as it underlies the reactions from both press releases and media. The AFL misjudged that situation, leaving a talented player vulnerable to public scorn. As a result, administrators and media have become overly cautious, fearing a repeat of that error.
This incident represented a different scenario altogether. Much of the booing carried a self-righteous undertone, as if declaring: You won’t dictate my behavior; this is my right, my stance. Some fans booed out of resentment toward directives from the AFL, Adelaide, Collingwood, or perceived moral authority. Others harbored lingering anger over Rankine’s suspension. Some seemed eager to stir controversy and seek attention, while a few, echoing Rowey’s sentiments, viewed Quaynor as a snitch.
While Quaynor likely does not perceive himself as a victim, the booing was not without consequences. It served as a stark reminder that players who confront issues of racism or homophobia may become targets. Furthermore, any LGBTQ+ individual in attendance might have questioned their welcome in such an environment.
However, few official responses tackled these crucial points. The moment called for a message along the lines of:
“If you or someone else is being vilified, we want you to speak up. We’ll support you wholeheartedly and take strong action against those who boo you for it.”
Instead, the responses were filled with typical hesitance and equivocation. They consistently spoke to those adhering to the right conduct. The most poignant message came from McRae, who essentially conveyed:
“Don’t be a sook, don’t be a bore, and don’t be an asshole. It’s not hard.”
- This is an extract from Guardian Australia’s free weekly AFL email, From the Pocket. To get the full version, just visit this page and follow the instructions.
