Homophobic behaviour alleged
AUCKLAND: A South African man claims at least three Crusaders players intimidated him in a fast food restaurant in Cape Town shortly after their Super Rugby draw against the Stormers on Sunday.
Alexandros Paterimos took to Instagram yesterday, naming three Crusaders, including two All Blacks, and alleging they hurled homophobic slurs at him and a friend.
He said the players ‘‘physically intimidated’’ them.
The Crusaders said they were aware of the allegations, but strongly rejected them.
‘‘The three players, team management and the South Africanbased security adviser with them, strongly refute the socialised account of what happened. They are devastated by the allegation and the implication of homophobic behaviour.’’
Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said: ‘‘This is an organisation that is committed to inclusivity and is proud to have earned the Rainbow Tick certification. That is what makes these allegations particularly distressing.
‘‘Given the serious nature of these allegations I will be meeting with the team management and players on their return to Christchurch. However, I am confident in the account that we have received from the team and the security adviser who was present.’’
Paterimos described the incident from his perspective.
‘‘We were attacked by members of the New Zealand rugby team in the mc Donald’s [sic] on Long/ kloof st last night. As we entered, we were met with jeering and sniggers from them. They then proceeded to record as a joke [also, upon looking on his phone screen, it was recording for either insta/snapchat],’’ Paterimos posted on Instagram.
‘‘We were met with homophobic slurs, limp wrists and high pitched voices which were clearly in gest [sic].
‘‘When catching them in the act, they told us they did it because we looked funny to them. They then said they can record us in public space if they want to.’’
Paterimos shared a video of part of the alleged incident.
Although no Crusaders players can be seen in the video, another man — whom Paterimos believes to be a part of the travel party — is seen pushing the camera. — NZME
❛ As we entered, we were met with jeering and sniggers from them