Adam Goodes reveals racism still an issue in AFL

SWANS champion Adam Goodes believes racism still exists in the AFL.

Neil Cordy

2 min read

June 20, 2012 - 12:00AM

DailyTelegraph

Adam Goodes

SWANS champion Adam Goodes believes racism still exists in the AFL.

In a far-reaching interview on Fox Sports' Open Mike to be aired tonight, Goodes talks to legendary AFL journalist Mike Sheahan about a range of issues, including racism.

Goodes was abused by a high-profile AFL player as a 22-year-old - an attack he remembers to this day.

He says the AFL and its indigenous players are "winning the war" against racism but it hasn't been wiped out completely. "It definitely hasn't (been eradicated)," Goodes tells Sheahan. "Almost isn't good enough.

"It's something we're continually talking about at our indigenous camps that we have every second year."

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Goodes is a director of the Go Foundation, which was established with former teammate Michael O'Loughlin in an attempt to create a brighter future for indigenous Australians. He is also the chairman of the AFL players' indigenous advisory board.

"We talk about incidents and we talk about what players can do better themselves to stamp it out," he said. "A lot of players don't report it. It does really effect some players and other players it doesn't.

"What we say in an education forum to the boys is we have to put our hand up and stamp it up ... really make them understand how it makes you feel."

In 1993, Nicky Winmar drew a line in the sand, raised his St Kilda jumper and pointed to the colour of his skin following racist taunts from Collingwood fans. Goodes is carrying Winmar's legacy and continues the fight against racism in the AFL

"The players we have involved in the game and where these players are coming from, the roles our indigenous players are playing in AFL football, we are definitely winning the war," he said. "The war is never going to end. We are getting players from all over the country, so education is a massive part of that."

Goodes also talks about the prospect of reaching the 400-game mark in the coming years. He's played 305.

The 32-year-old makes his return to action on Friday night against Geelong after missing the past five games, the longest break through injury in his 15-year career.

Goodes also talks about the current Swans team and their premiership prospects.

"Another premiership would be nice," he said.

"That's the only reason why I am playing footy.