[UK] RACIALLY ABUSED TEENAGER TO BE GUEST OF HONOUR AT SCOTLAND MATCH
Wednesday 26 Mar 2008
A teenager who spoke out about the racist abuse he received whilst playing football in Scotland will be guest of honour at tonight's Scotland vs Croatia match.
Nathan Austin received a personal invitation from SFA chief Gordon Smith after Smith was made aware of the treatment Nathan had been subjected to during games in Fife.
The talented 14-year-old considered quitting the game after being abused by opponents, their parents and rival coaches, but he will play on with East Wemyss District under-15s after being told he is too good to give up.
Smith said: "I read young Nathan's story and wanted to act immediately to help him.
"It's a shame this is still happening in sport and society in general and although it's a mindless minority, I want to say that we won't accept it.
"It's important we get the message across that racism is unacceptable and I'm determined that Show Racism The Red Card is more than a catchy slogan.
"Maybe some kids don't realise it's an awful thing to racially abuse someone and that has to change. I'm looking forward to speaking to Nathan and his coach at the match tonight.
"I'll offer the services of a sports psychologist who will be able to talk to Nathan about the problems he has faced. It's important he doesn't give up on the game."
Nathan's coach Willie Wilkie welcomed the SFA decision to invite Nathan to the game. He said all the teams in Fife Development League had agreed to clamp down on racism at a meeting on Monday.
He added: "This has been a wake-up call for everyone involved in youth football across Scotland."
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Michael Ballack
"Football has no room for racism of any kind. Footballers want to win, but with respect and fairness. The colour of a players skin or their religious convictions should not matter."
Michael Ballack, Chelsea and Germany