Adelaide Oval corporate box guest ‘hurled homophobic slurs’ during Crows match

Adelaide Oval authorities have confirmed they have received a complaint about a corporate box guest yelling homophobic slurs during the Crows match on Saturday.

The Stadium Management Authority is investigating claims a corporate box guest hurled homophobic slurs during the Crows match on Saturday.

• OPINION: Why didn’t this bigoted boofhead get the boot?

An incident involving a corporate box guest yelling homophobic slurs during the Crows game last Saturday is being investigated by the Stadium Management Authority.

A complaint was made to the SMA on Monday, following a guest in the Schneider Electric/Clipsal box repeatedly and loudly using offensive language during the match.

The man’s behaviour is a clear breach of the SMA’s Fan Behaviour Code of Conduct which encourages “loud, passionate” barracking, but also promotes a “family friendly environment’’.

Patrons are obligated to “Use appropriate language, without threatening, foul or abusive content based on race, religion, sexuality or gender.’’

Both the SMA and Schneider said they were investigating the incident.

“The Adelaide Oval SMA is investigating this matter after information was received ... and will follow up with the suite holder once that process is complete,’’ a spokeswoman said.

“Unfortunately, the behaviour in question was not reported to staff or security on the night and Adelaide Oval staff working in the area did not hear the language in question.

“Our staff and security do their best at every event to monitor fan behaviour. However, we encourage all patrons attending events at Adelaide Oval to assist by reporting poor behaviour during the event by using the 0400 TELL US number or speaking directly to staff or security.

“Adelaide Oval has a strict Fan Behaviour Code of Conduct in place and we do not tolerate foul, abusive or threatening language in any context.’’

Schneider said it was investigating and was disappointed the incident occurred.

“We are working to identify the person involved and will take a strong stance on the matter,’’ a spokeswoman said

“We apologise for the behaviour of this person and understand the discomfort and unease that must have been experienced by those people who unfortunately witnessed the behaviour.”

“Our business is 100 per cent committed to inclusion and diversity. Our people are encouraged to call out bias and anti-social behaviour when they see it and we believe every person should feel uniquely valued and safe to be their best.

“There were more than 20 guests present on Saturday and due to the layout of the corporate area at the Oval, which has indoor and outdoor spaces, our staff present did not hear or see such behaviour.

“If they had seen this behaviour or received a complaint on the day our staff would have taken direct action to stop it and remove the person.’’

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