Lyon backs Wanganeen-Milera in face of social media 'hate'

Shayne Hope Published July 18, 2025 at 10.30am (AWST)

Ross Lyon has called for stronger language to be used around social media "hate" after St Kilda star Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera was the target of racial abuse online.

Wanganeen-Milera and Port Adelaide's Jase Burgoyne called out anonymous trolls after both players received a series of abusive messages following their games last round.

Those directed at Wanganeen-Milera appeared related to betting on the 22-year-old' playmaker's disposal count in the Saints' loss to Sydney.

"It was hate, it was vehement, it was disgusting," St Kilda coach Lyon said on Friday.

"We don't stand for it as a club and the AFL doesn't, and the community shouldn't.

"It's more than racism - it's hate. You know what? The standards you walk past are the standards you accept.

"They call it out, we'll move on and play our footy."

Lyon said Wanganeen-Milera had been "really well" in the days since calling out the abuse.

The out-of-contract star, who is weighing up his playing future amid huge interest from rival clubs, will line up for the Saints in their clash with Geelong at GMHBA Stadium on Sunday.

"Nothing fazes Nas," Lyon said.

"It's nothing to do with Nas ... Nas is a great person and he's becoming a great player.

"If anything, the power's in how you respond. He's got nothing to shy away from.

"Deep down, would it be really hurtful and uncomfortable? Yeah, but guess what? That's out there ... it was hate, it was vehement and it was disgusting.

"We don't stand for it and we want to stamp it out and we want to call it out, which has been done."

The AFL on Monday condemned the "abhorrent racist remarks" directed at Wanganeen-Milera and Burgoyne, and is investigating the incidents.

Shayne Hope - AAP

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