A violent brawl erupts at the NSW OzTag State Championships in Coffs Harbour, prompting calls for lifetime bans after parents and teenagers clash during an under-17s match between Port Macquarie and Wollongong teams.
Incident Unfolds at Coffs International Stadium
What starts as routine post-match handshakes spirals into chaos when insults fly and players aged 15 and 16 exchange blows. Parents rush onto the field, escalating the fight as adults trade punches with teens. Video footage captures a player striking the opposing coach, followed by another man joining and getting knocked down.
The three-day tournament draws a record 343 teams vying for state titles on the NSW north coast. This marks the second matchup between the teams that day due to the draw schedule. Wollongong secures decisive wins in both games, fueling frustrations from Port Macquarie.
No immediate sanctions follow, allowing Wollongong to advance to quarterfinals the next day.
Official Investigations and Zero-Tolerance Policies
OzTag Australia launches an investigation. A Port Macquarie OzTag spokeswoman emphasizes a strict no-abuse policy across all levels, including players, coaches, staff, and spectators. She stresses zero tolerance for violence and racial vilification.
“Our association maintains a firm zero-tolerance policy toward racial slurs or any form of vilification. Such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be condoned,” the spokeswoman states. “Port Macquarie Junior OzTag proudly features participants from diverse cultures and nationalities. Individuals at fault will face accountability.”
Tournament director Bill Harrigan, former NRL and international rugby league referee, confirms lifetime bans loom. “We will review all video footage to identify those involved, as many removed their shirts,” Harrigan says. “A father and son duo already stand out for lifetime expulsion—one in a black shirt slaps the Wollongong coach and acts further. Harsh penalties, from life bans to lengthy suspensions, await others. Despite 99% smooth sailing over two days, we react strongly to such incidents.”
Public Reaction and Past Precedent
Social media buzzes with outrage. One parent laments, “How can I bring my young family to an OzTag game when attacks occur? I’d prefer an A-League match for its welcoming environment.” Others demand lifetime bans for “coward punches from behind,” noting lighter penalties for minor ref contact pale in comparison.
This follows a chaotic brawl last September at Parry Park in Lakemba, where multiple fights during suburban OzTag games draw police amid fears for children’s safety. Punches fly near pitches and nets as crowds scream and intervene.
