An adult spectator has allegedly directed racist comments at a Kamilaroi teenager during a football game in Kootingal on Friday night.
The U18s match was between Kootingal Moonbi and North Tamworth.
Lachlan Power and an adult spectator supporting the opposing team had a verbal altercation during the match, which escalated after the spectator allegedly yelled offensive slurs at the teen.
Lachlan’s mother Holly, who witnessed the incident, said her heart is broken for her son.
“When Lachlan got off the field he just burst in to tears. He was trying to hold it in but couldn’t,” Ms Power told NITV.
“He didn’t want to go to school yesterday. He hasn’t come out of his room since Friday.”
Holly Power said her son is known is their community for his passion and love for culture.
Ms Power said her son is “not himself” after the incident.
“I don’t even know if he wants to play footy after what happened,” she said.
“I’m absolutely heartbroken, but I’m trying to be strong, because I could see how much it’s hurting him.”
“I told him to just continue being a 17-year-old child and let me deal with all the big things.
“I had a cry on my own because I didn’t want him to see me hurt but I’m trying to stay positive for him,” she said.
Ms Power said she would not be referring the incident on to police, but hopes the Kootingal Moonbi Roosters football club bans the spectator from future games and that the spectator apologises to her son and their family.
“I think he should be banned from all matches in New South Wales for life. I don’t think he should ever be back … I just want an apology. I don’t want him charged,” she said.
NITV have reached out to Kootingal Moonbi Rugby Football Club.
