"It has nothing to do the with the club, Aussie Rules or Australia."
Pic via Sydney Swans Facebook
A new petition calling for the Sydney Swans to stop playing Neil Diamond's iconic Sweet Caroline at home games is quickly gaining traction online.
The classic 1969 track is played at the AFL club's games at the Sydney Cricket Ground during quarter time, however the Change.org petition, launched yesterday, argues that it should be dropped in favour of "a more relevant song that can still add to the game day experience".
"It has nothing to do the with the club, Aussie Rules or Australia," the petition states.
"The playing of Sweet Caroline has become a fixture at many sporting events in the United States. There are many great things about American culture but there is no need to Americanise Swans' [sic] games."
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The petition has caught the attention of Aussie hip hop artist Urthboy who backed the call on Twitter today.
"Sorry @sydneyswans but I'm with this petition," the rapper tweeted.
"Let's get a classic Sydney song to unite the audience."
The Music has reached out to the Sydney Swans for comment.
Check out the petition here.
UPDATE 3.40pm
The Sydney Swans have responded to the petition calling for them to cease playing Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline at home games in a statement given exclusively to The Music.
"We're aware of the petition and the views of some fans, however Sweet Caroline is a fan favourite for many others," a Sydney Swans spokesperson said.
"Where timing permits it will remain part of our home games for the rest of the year and, as we do each year, it will be reviewed in line with all match-day elements ahead of next season."