Izak Rankine, the Adelaide Crows forward, finds himself navigating through the aftermath of a four-match ban for directing a homophobic slur at a rival player. During his suspension, Rankine took an overseas break out of Australia. As he began to feel the impact of his actions, he turned to Italy as a place of refuge and healing. Now that he’s back in the country, he’s laser-focused on his future in the sport. He’s particularly keen for an early return to action should the Crows go deep into the finals.
Rankine’s ban was due to verbal abuse directed at an opponent during a match against the Collingwood Magpies earlier in the season. This latest incident now sees him become the sixth AFL-listed player to receive a suspension for such comments made on-field. All of this has occurred in the last 16 months. His only chance to return to the game this season rests on the Crows reaching the grand final. To achieve that, they’ll have to defeat a few heavyweights in the opening semis first.
Rankine recently returned from Italy after more than a week of deep reflection and fitness. He fronted the media at Adelaide airport as soon as he got off the plane. He later apologized both for the use of the slur and accepted that it was harmful.
“I wanna start by saying how deeply sorry I am for what I said, there was no excuse. It was wrong and I take full responsibility.” – Izak Rankine
As Rankine put it, “I felt really bad about my own self.” He admitted to having disappointed a lot of people. For that I deeply apologize to any and all who were hurt by my comments and accept responsibility for their hurtful impact.
“I want to apologise to anyone I’ve hurt and offended. I understand that word is offensive, harmful and hurtful and has no place in our game or society.” – Izak Rankine
Rankine has been a ball of energy around his teammates since returning. He addressed the Crows’ AFLW team upon returning, for the first time since the incident. Throughout his presentation, he promised to do better. After the debut match on Saturday, he made sure to take time to celebrate with his new teammates. Unlike them, he did not accompany them to the changing-room before kickoff.
Rankine has served two matches of his suspension to this point. Professionally, he’s in a serious training mode, hoping to be in top form by the time of the big finale. His comeback now depends on Adelaide getting past their preliminary final, likely to be against Geelong or Brisbane.
“More than anything I want this club to succeed, so I’ll be doing everything I can to gain everyone’s trust back and positive impact on society.” – Izak Rankine
While he was away from the game has seen owners, coaches, and executives in violation of similar offenses receive swift punishment. In July, West Coast’s Jack Graham was slapped with a four-match suspension for uttering a homophobic slur towards a GWS player. This incident is another reminder of the growing sensitivity surrounding language in combative/competitive sports.
Getting Rankine back on the field could provide the spark the Crows need as they look to contend for a Premiership. Nick Riewoldt noted Rankine’s unique skill set, emphasizing the team’s need for his presence on the field.
“He was here at the ground tonight, he is back in play. They missed him at ground level in that forward 50. X-factor, Rankine, at ground level.” – Nick Riewoldt
In his personal and professional life, Rankine aims for redemption. He is dedicated to growing from this experience and taking time for self-reflection. He wanted to make sure that everyone knows that he’s not a victim of the situation. Rather, it has inspired him to learn more about the impacts of his behavior.
