COACH Dean Bailey says it was a “disgrace” that emerging North Melbourne tall Majak Daw was subjected to racial abuse during a VFL match on Saturday.

The rookie was playing for his club’s affiliate Werribee against Port Melbourne at TEAC Oval, when a spectator vilified Daw, who was born in Sudan, but immigrated to Australia in 2003.

Bailey, like several other key AFL industry figures, spoke strongly on the matter.

“I think what happened with young Majak Daw - and I agree with the rest of the publicity that’s gone on - it’s a disgrace,” he said.

“He’s a young man making his way in life and being a footballer representing his people, but to have those slurs on him is just ridiculous.

“I hope they fine the people that have said it in the crowd, and they really should be naming and shaming them, I think.

“The same thing with Buddy [Franklin] down in Tasmania. Those sorts of things should be stamped out of the game as quickly as possible, and they shouldn’t exist.”

Bailey said it was up to everyone, including spectators, to make sure incidents such as what happened to Daw would not be tolerated. 

“People in the crowd should also be making sure that, if there is security around, to point them out. There is no room for it at all,” he said.

“Young Majak has got a great future ahead of him and it’s going to be really exciting when he comes on and starts to play.

“I’m sure he’d be keen to get on the front foot and not only start to play games for North Melbourne, but have a long career.

“I think the game needs all people and all possibilities to play the game - whether you’re six foot eight or five foot four - there is a spot for you in the game.”