Vic: Soccer player sent off field for Islamic head scarf

AAP General News (Australia)
04-26-2004
Vic: Soccer player sent off field for Islamic head scarf

It's been revealed one of Victoria's most promising young women soccer players was
told she couldn't play unless she removed her Islamic head scarf.

AFIFA SAAD, who has tried out for the Victorian team, always plays for the South Melbourne
Women's Soccer Club wearing her white head scarf and long track pants, in accordance with
her religion.

Yesterday, at a game between South Melbourne and Keilor Park, the referee told her
she couldn't play unless she took off her scarf.

AFIFA refused and the game was postponed.

The Victorian Soccer Federation has launched an investigation into the incident and
referee development manger CHRIS BAMBRIDGE says the referee could face disciplinary action.

The federation will also investigate whether the referee, who has about 12 years of
experience, has breached anti-discrimination laws.

AAP RTV apw/dk/lma/wjf

KEYWORD: SOCCER (MELBOURNE) WITH AUDIO

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