NSW Swifts clapback at online Twitter troll attacking players’ athleticism

The NSW Swifts have signalled their intent to be a leader in sport and call out social media trolls, after the athleticism of netballers at the club was attacked by a Twitter user.

The NSW Swifts have signalled their intent to call out all social media trolls after the athleticism of netballers at the club was attacked by a Twitter user.

A social media post featuring four NSW Swifts netballers training on the court in preparation for the upcoming Suncorp Super Netball season was the subject of an unwarranted attack by a Twitter troll, using the handle @EdwardDorrit.

Another day in the office 😤 pic.twitter.com/3YGUnqSLZ2

— NSW Swifts (@NSWSwifts) January 18, 2022

The troll referenced the post’s caption of “another day in the office” by replying; “judging by the lack of muscle definition you might as well as be in an actual office”.

NSW Swifts responded with: “HAHAHAHHAHAHAH omg wow trolls in the morning are so funny. Can you imagine sitting at your computer and bothering to tweet this kind of stuff? Have to appreciate the time dedicated to it. Thanks for the unnecessary input Ed”.

HAHAHAHHAHAHAH omg wow trolls in the morning are so funny. Can you imagine sitting at your computer and bothering to tweet this kind of stuff? Have to appreciate the time dedicated to it. Thanks for the unnecessary input Ed 😘 https://t.co/huSfZ5JpFg

— NSW Swifts (@NSWSwifts) January 18, 2022

NSW Swifts executive general manager Tracey Scott said online abuse was an issue across society and it wouldn’t be tolerated by the organisation in any situation.

She said: “Our club won’t accept our players or staff being harassed or bullied in any context.

“The NSW Swifts feel strongly about being leaders in professional sport in Australia and that is not just in the context of what happens on the court.

“If people make inappropriate comments about our players, staff, fans, club or netball generally, we want to show leadership in calling that out and making it clear it is unacceptable behaviour.

“Sport has the opportunity to engage in positive role modelling and leadership regarding societal issues generally.

“It is critical is to show courage and make it clear that unacceptable behaviours will not be tolerated.”

Ms Scott said more could be done by social media companies in the way they respond to abusive posts by online trolls and supported changes in legislation to hold responsible to account.

The Super Netball season will begin on March 26.