Latrell Mitchell's Passionate Plea For Online Racial Abuse To Stop

Latrell Mitchell has spoken out about being racial abused online.

The South Sydney Rabbitohs star, who is currently serving a four-game ban, allegedly received a number of abusive messages on social media over the past few weeks.

But instead of letting it slide, the brave fullback decided to confront the issue head on by calling a press conference in a bid to stamp the vile abuse out of game for good.

During the passionate plea, Mitchell insisted he had to "find the courage" to call it out while also taking the time to offer his own support for anyone who is going through a similar experience.

"I'm not big on talking about myself, I'm always about others, and I just wanted to make it clear that this stuff that goes on social media and in the public, it's uncalled for. I say no to it, I want it to stop. We don't need it in society," he said.

"With online and cyber bullying, it only takes that one message for someone not as strong as me that can't take the criticism for them to go and do some self-harm. That's all it takes, one word. Today I'm taking a stand on it. I just want everyone out there to know that you can stand up to it too.

"I just want to send a message out there that I thank you for the support I've received over the last couple of days. I'm behind everyone and I'm setting the standard now that this is not on. If you see it, call it out. And if you're going through a rough time at the moment, just know you've got my full support."⁠

Huge respect.

And at just 23 years of age, Mitchell is proving himself to be just as much of a leader off the field as he is on it.

It was only last week that the NRL reached a landmark agreement with social media giants Instagram allowing players to block online trolls through personalised filters.

It's clear the NRL wants to put a stop to the abuse too, and the sport's governing body was quick to throw its support behind Mitchell in his push for change.

"Any fan who racially abuses or threatens our players will be referred to police," NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo said.

"We wholeheartedly support Latrell in reporting this matter. He is a leader in the fight against racism in our community."

Topics: Racism, nrl news, racial abuse, Latrell Mitchell, Rugby League, nrl, Australia

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry