Adelaide Crows have reported a “disgusting” troll attack on captain Jordan Dawson to South Australian Police and the AFL integrity unit.
On Sunday, Dawson took to social media, calling out a direct message sent to his Instagram account that had made a self-harm reference towards him following the Crows’ loss to the Brisbane Lions in a semi-final at the Gabba on Saturday night.
“There is absolutely no place for this in the world, be better,” Dawson wrote.
The Crows skipper last month won the AFLPA’s Robert Rose Most Courageous Player Award after playing out the season following the tragic death of his eldest brother Jaryd in April. SA Police said at the time that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the 35-year-old’s death.
An emotional Dawson, who was also named vice captain of the All-Australian team, made an inspiring address about mental health at the awards night.
“The mental health space is something that’s pretty new and pretty raw to me at the moment, but it’s definitely something that I want to learn a bit more about,” Dawson said on the night.
“I just want to wish anyone who’s struggling with mental health to know that you are definitely loved and the world is a better place with you in it.
“You are enough, and we all love you, and you have beautiful family and friends around you.”
The Age has chosen not to show the name of the account or repeat the message. The account was set as private on Sunday night.
Crows chief executive Tim Silvers spoke up for Dawson and teammate Callum Ah Chee, who also faced post-game abuse on social media.
“Unfortunately, this disgusting and disturbing behaviour is becoming more common,” Silvers said on Sunday.
“It’s simply not good enough, and it has to stop. There’s no place for it in our community.
“We will provide Jordan and Cal with the appropriate support, as is the case when any of our people are subjected to online attacks and abuse.
“We will also be reporting these latest incidents to SA Police and the AFL’s integrity unit.”
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
Roy Ward is a sports writer, live blogger and breaking news journalist. He’s been writing for The Age since 2010.Connect via X or email.From our partners
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