The president of Maccabi Netball NSW, Adam Dinte, has confirmed that the organization is aware of an alleged 'deeply distressing' incident at a children's netball game in Maroubra on Saturday. A woman has been charged with using offensive language after allegedly making antisemitic comments during an under-12s match between the Maccabi and Saints netball clubs.
Incident Details
New South Wales police responded to a call at the netball courts in Heffron Park, Maroubra, just after 10 a.m. on Saturday. Reports indicated that a woman had directed offensive comments toward a group at the game. Officers initially issued a move-on direction to the 42-year-old woman, but after further inquiries, she was charged with using offensive language in or near a public place or school. She is scheduled to appear at Waverley Local Court on June 17.
Community Response
In a statement to club members, Dinte expressed that the organization was deeply disturbed by the alleged incident. He noted that Maccabi Netball NSW is cooperating with police and the Jewish-led Community Security Group (CSG) and is preparing a formal complaint to the Randwick Netball Association and Saints Netball Club.
The alleged incident follows the first week of public hearings for the royal commission into antisemitism, where personal testimonies have highlighted a troubling rise in antisemitism across Australia. David Ossip, president of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, stated he was aware of the incident and condemned the actions.
Condemnation from Clubs and Officials
Saints Netball Club released a statement acknowledging the incident, in which a supporter allegedly made antisemitic remarks. The club unequivocally condemned antisemitism in all its forms. Jenny Morrissey, president of the Randwick Netball Association, confirmed that the association is working with Netball NSW to investigate the matter. She emphasized that netball should be a welcoming space for everyone.
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that children should be able to play sports safely and that the Jewish community should not have to live in fear or face abuse. The government is closely monitoring the situation and supporting the affected families.
