Melbourne has released a statement condemning the racial vilification of Harley Bennell on social media last night.
A racial comment was tweeted under a video of Bennell kicking his first goal for the Demons, which has since been deleted by the user.
Melbourne chairman Glenn Bartlett released a statement today condemning the comments and the actions the club will instigate to call out this behaviour.
“It’s incredibly frustrating that comments of this nature continue to be made, and it’s important that we, as a football community, don’t shy away from what’s right," Bartlett said on the Melbourne website.
“We all have a responsibility to call this behaviour out and hold these individuals to account. It is simply not okay to remain silent.
“I am already in discussions and intend to follow up key Federal and Victorian Government Ministers to explore what can be done to strengthen laws to make people accountable and stamp out this abhorrent behaviour.
“The club stands with Harley, and strongly against the vilification of our people. We will continue to drive the importance of listening, learning and educating.”
Bennell kicked the last goal of the game in the Demons 17-point win over Gold Coast on Saturday night.