Western Clydesdales captain Emry Pere suspended for homophobic slur in clash against Burleigh Bears

A Hostplus Cup captain has learned his fate after he was sent off for using a homophobic slur in a clash against the Burleigh Bears on Saturday night. Read his club’s response to the incident and the ban here.

Western Clydesdales captain Emry Pere. Picture: Benny Hassum Photography.

Western Clydesdales captain Emry Pere has found out his fate for his homophobic slur used during a Hostplus Cup game against the Burleigh Bears on Saturday night.

The QRL Match Review Committee charged Pere with a grade 3 contrary conduct and he will be suspended for two games after the Clydesdales accepted an early plea.

Pere was sent off in the 10th minute of the clash against Burleigh at Father Ranger Oval in Warwick.

“The words that I heard that you said, unacceptable and cannot be used on a football field,” the referee could be heard saying on the stream of the match.

“Emry, you’re gone. It’s a homophobic slur Emry and you cannot say that on a football field.”

Pere could be heard saying “f---ing f----ot” over the ref’s mic in the lead-up to his send-off.

QRL competitions manager Dave Maiden praised the referee’s actions during the clash.

“The homophobic language used by Emry Pere was unacceptable,” he said.

“I commend the referee for the immediate action taken on the field, and endorse the findings of the Match Review Committee.

“This unfortunate incident is a reminder to all players that the game will not tolerate such conduct.

“I’d also like to acknowledge Emry for accepting responsibility for his actions and his genuine remorse. Emry made a poor mistake and he will learn from this experience.

“Rugby league is a game for everyone – it doesn’t matter where you are born, your gender or sexual orientation.”

The Western Clydesdales issued a public apology to their supporters, stakeholders and the greater community.

The statement from Clydesdales CEO Shane Sullivan reads as follows.

“Dear Western Clydesdales Supporters and the General Public,

“We write to you today regarding the unfortunate incident that occurred during our recent match against the Burleigh Bears.

“In the 10th minute of the game, our Club Captain, Emry Pere, was sent off the field for making an unacceptable and offensive comment.

“First and foremost, we want to express our unwavering support for Emry Pere, who has shown immense remorse for his actions.

“Emry is deeply regretful for his words and the impact they have had.

“He recognizes the severity of the situation and has pleaded guilty through the QRL Judicial process, accepting the suspension handed down to him.

“Emry Pere has been an exemplary leader and player, both on and off the field.

“This incident is completely out of character for him. In the heat of the moment, during a highly competitive game, emotions can run high, and mistakes can be made.

“However, it is important to note that Emry understands the gravity of his mistake and the hurt his words can and may have caused.

“Emry has expressed his regret and feels as though he has let down not only his team and supporters but also the broader community. We acknowledge his remorse and commitment to learning from this experience.

“Emry has already started working with our club through our Education and Wellbeing Manager and Football department staff to ensure that he grows from this, helping promote a culture of respect and inclusion in rugby league.

“The Western Clydesdales are committed to upholding the values of respect, inclusion, and sportsmanship. We do not condone the use of homophobic slurs or any form of discriminatory language.

“We believe that this incident, while regrettable, will serve as a powerful reminder to all of us about the importance of always maintaining these values.

“We are proud to have Emry Pere as our captain and believe in his ability to learn from this incident and emerge as a stronger leader.

“Emry has been a valuable member of our team since joining in 2024, and we are confident that he will take this opportunity to make amends and demonstrate his true character.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.”