Australian rugby players refuse to wear Pride jersey for 'religious reasons'

Seven players from the Australian rugby league team Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have refused to play in an upcoming game because the club wants them to wear a Pride shirt to support LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport. 

The team was set to wear the jerseys, with rainbow stripes and a rainbow collar, at a match on Thursday against rivals the Sydney Roosters. 

But the seven players told club officials that wearing the jersey conflicts with their cultural and religious beliefs -- even though the specially-designed kit has been a huge hit with the team's fans. 

“The players will not play on Thursday and we accept their decision,” said Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler. 

"These young men are strong in their beliefs and convictions and we will give them the space and support they require," he added.

“The playing group are solid and understanding of each other’s views. As a club we will wear the jersey on Thursday night.”

The seven players -- Josh Aloiai, Jason Saab, Christian Tuipulotu, Josh Schuster, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tolu Koula and Toafofoa Sipley -- are not available for selection on Thursday. Rugby league squads contain 13 starting players and four on the interchange bench for each game.

Hasler apologized for the fallout which stemmed from the club’s lack of advance consultation with the playing group.

“Our intent was to be caring towards all diverse groups who face inclusion issues daily,” Hasler said. “Sadly this poor management has caused significant confusion, discomfort and pain for many people, in particular those groups whose human rights we in fact attempting to support.

“We wish to apologize to the LGBTQ community who embrace the rainbow colors, who use these colors for pride and advocacy and human rights issues.”

Australian Rugby League