Wallabies legend Sam Scott-Young apologises after homophobic remarks at official rugby function
Wallabies legend forced into fawning apology after making series of homophobic remarks at official rugby meeting in front of shocked guests
- Used very offensive terms
- Gays were present
- QRU also apologizes
Former Wallaby rugby player Sam Scott-Young has apologized for making homophobic remarks during a speech at a rugby event in Queensland.
The incident occurred during a long luncheon event in Brisbane commemorating 140 years of the state’s rugby history, organized by the Queensland Rugby Union [QRU].
Scott-Young, who represented the Wallabies in seven Tests between 1990 and 1992, was invited to share his experience as a panelist at the event.
Interviewed by his former Wallabies teammate Greg Martin, Scott-Young shocked the 700 or so guests, including Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan and several Queensland Reds players, with his inappropriate language.
Multiple sources present at the feature reported that Scott-Young used a derogatory slur on multiple occasions, specifically the word “f—–t,” while telling stories from his playing days.
He also used other profane language during his time on stage. The public was taken aback by the homophobic remarks, prompting Martin to step in and warn Scott-Young about his choice of words.
Scott-Young, pictured working for Fox Sports after he retired from rugby, shocked audiences with his language
Scott-Young is a former Queensland Reds striker and he has issued a formal apology to the QRU following the incident
According to witnesses, Scott-Young responded by suggesting that he might as well apologize to individuals identifying as “she” or “them.”
Shortly after this comment, he left the stage.
Clearly there were gay men in the audience.
Following the event, a number of audience members made formal complaints to the Queensland Rugby Union, expressing their outrage at Scott-Young’s comments.
QRU officials were also outraged by the incident.
Former Wallaroo player Selena Worsley-Tranter, who was next to speak, also condemned Scott-Young’s homophobic comments during her interview at the event.
David Hanham, the CEO of the Queensland Rugby Union, confirmed that he received a verbal apology from Sam Scott-Young shortly after the incident.
“Sam Scott-Young’s comments during the long QRU lunch were unacceptable and inappropriate,” Hanham said. His comments do not reflect our values as an organization.
“We immediately communicated this to Sam and he apologized for his actions.”
“It was very disappointing and on behalf of the QRU we apologize for his comments which were totally unacceptable and which we do not condone or support.”
In addition, Scott-Young issued a written apology and stated his intention to personally apologize to the offended audience.