Interesting that people are saying there is a racism problem within the game here. After playing in Wellington for six years I can't recall ever seeing or hearing any type racism at all.
If youre white, then no you you probably havent.
The profound irony of this statement in this thread makes following these discussions worthwhile. Would that be the white Serbs, Chinese, Americans, Japanese, Australians, to name a few playing football, or are they all just 'white' and because of that not being victims of racism? Isn't that comment kind of.....racist?
So im white and being racist towards other whites now? loI. Anyway ive never been a victim of racism on the football field. As far as i know all the white players i play with have never been victims of it either (kiwis, aussies, english, german, other european). Some may have, but id suspect it to be very rare. However, i have played with guys of Middle Eastern and African heritage (even some of the current Seatoun squad from their time at my club when Steve was also the coach 3-4 years ago) - most of them can reflect on numerous accounts of racism. Even at the U19s - so yeah its happening outside of Wellington. Have also witnessed one of our Turkish players being called a wog by a very notable and well known Miramar player whos played at the highest level of club football, and who everyone knows.
Ive also sadly been on sides guilty of racism especially in my college days. One of the worst instances i remember was playing against Wellington High, at least half their squad were African and copped a fair bit of hurt from a couple of guys on my side. That wasnt fun for anyone. The ref sent them both off from what i remember.