Adelaide Crows player Josh Rachele has encouraged footy fans to 'choose kindness' after he shared an abusive message he received on social media. The message was sent directly to Rachele on Instagram by a person telling him to 'end your life please'.
Rachele, 21, posted a screenshot of the message on his Instagram story, writing: 'Choose kindness. You never know what someone is going through.' The post has since been widely shared, with many fans and fellow players expressing support for Rachele.
The Crows released a statement condemning the abuse and offering support to Rachele. 'We stand with Josh and condemn all forms of online abuse,' the statement said. 'We encourage everyone to be respectful and kind online.'
Rachele has not commented further on the incident. The AFL has also urged fans to report abusive messages to the platform and to the league's integrity unit.
