I’ve been taunted on the field. It’s about time the AFL stamped that behaviour out

April 9, 2026 — 11:35am

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The AFL is drawing a line in the sand on player behaviour – rightly so.

And for the first time in a long time, it’s being applied consistently.

I’m talking about childish, disrespectful and unsportsmanlike behaviour – such as taunting, teasing, niggling, cheap hits behind play, gut punches, rude gestures, calling opponents names and racist or homophobic language. None of those acts have a place in our game.

This isn’t just about cleaning up footy at the elite level. It’s about recognising a simple truth: what happens on AFL and AFLW grounds doesn’t stay there. It filters down to suburban leagues, junior footy and the next generation of players who copy what they see.

And there’s no bigger reminder of that than this weekend. Gather Round brings more eyes, more families and more kids to games than almost any other moment in the season. The AFL has never had more reach or more responsibility.

Right now, the standard is being reset, with a clear shift from tolerance to accountability.

Take the new taunting rule. Outlawing acts like head-ruffling and humiliating gestures might seem minor on the surface. Some fans might call it an overreaction. It isn’t.

Strip it back: at local footy, if a child is being mocked – ruffled hair, crybaby gestures, public humiliation – does that child enjoy the game? Does he........

© The Sydney Morning Herald