Muslim AFLW player Haneen Zreika opts out of pride round, urges respect

The AFLW’s first Muslim player has asked spectators not to harass or disrespect others as she explains her decision to pull out of the LGBT round.

The AFLW’s first Muslim player says her decision to bow out of the LGBT round due to religious ­expectations of her community was “extremely difficult”.

It was revealed on Thursday Greater Western Sydney player Haneen Zreika would not wear her team’s pride jumper against the Western Bulldogs on Friday.

On Friday, the 22-year-old said she respected people regardless of their sexual orientation.

AFLW players Nicola Barr and Alyce Parker with the GWS pride jumper. Picture: Darren Leigh Roberts

“As the first Australian Muslim woman in the AFLW, I have a responsibility to represent my faith any my community,” she said.

“This decision was extremely difficult and I appreciate the support of Giants (and) my teammates.

“Inclusion is about creating a space where people are able to respect their right to choose how they live their life as long as they don’t advocate hate and division.”

It is understood Zreika ­decided not to participate in the round over concerns wearing the jumper would not align with the expectations or religious beliefs of her community.

Zreika played the 2021 pride round but the team did not have the guernsey. She was expected to attend the game at Henson Park in Sydney.