Harrow RFC and Verulamians RFC joint club statement on racism in youth rugby

Following a reported incident of racial abuse at a recent youth game between Harrow and Verulamian RFC the clubs have issued a clear statement below:

During a recent youth match between Harrow RFC and Verulamians RFC it has been reported that racist language was used by a spectator aimed at a player on the pitch. Both clubs are currently investigating this matter and taking the report very seriously. Any allegation of racist or discriminatory language will follow due process in line with our disciplinary policies. Racist abuse is a hate crime and has no place in our society, our sport, and our clubs and both clubs involved are jointly committed to eradicating any discrimination from our game. In line with the values and codes of conduct of both clubs, any member of either club found to be using discriminatory language, racist or otherwise, will be banned from the club and the hate crime will be reported. Furthermore, anyone hearing any form of discriminatory language is expected to report it to club officials. Both Verulamians RFC and Harrow RFC pride ourselves on being friendly and inclusive clubs and utterly condemn abusive behaviour of any kind. We will continue to work together to uphold the values of our sport.

Verulamians RFC Mini and Youth Co-Chairs Colin Gentleman and John Penn have been working closely with Neil Macdonald (Harrow Youth Chair) to co-ordinate the clubs responses to this incident.