Australian footballer Nathan Burke's taking a stand against homophobia. The athlete has reportedly joined up with activist Rob Mitchell to ban anti-gay abuse on the pitch:

"The rules should be along the same lines as its successful racial vilification policy," Burke told the Herald Sun yesterday.
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Mr Mitchell said young gays and lesbians were often discouraged because of abuse.

"They're petrified of playing sport. They get teased and ostracised. They withdraw and become depressed," he said.

Both men have met with government officials to discuss the matter, while the Australian Football League insists it "abhors" anti-gay attitudes just the same as other discriminatory behaviors. Because, really, what else are they going to say?