Hawthon midfielder Jai Newcombe has admitted social media abuse aimed at AFL players can be “toxic” and “ugly” as he commended Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson for exposing “disgusting and disturbing” behaviour.

Dawson called out on Sunday night a shocking message he received on Instagram, which prompted the Crows to report the attack to South Australian Police and the AFL integrity unit.

Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson. Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Nine.com.au has decided not to publish the message or convey what it suggested.

Speaking to media ahead of Saturday’s preliminary final between Hawthorn and Brisbane at the MCG, Newcombe was asked about his experience on social media as an AFL player.

“It can be pretty toxic and pretty ugly,” he said.

“There’s a lot out there that doesn’t get shown.

“I think it’s important what Jordan’s done.

“We had a similar [experience] with Mabior [Chol] earlier in the year, and actually calling that stuff out.

“It’s pretty ugly. It’s disrespectful.

“It’s so many things we shouldn’t have to deal with … but I would say that’s almost just the tip of the iceberg.

“There’s a hell of a lot that goes on pretty frequently that players have to deal with and talk to the people they need to, but there’s too much of it going on, I would say.”

Dawson, 29, endured personal heartbreak this season, following the death of his brother Jaryd in April.

Despite the tragedy, the Crows skipper produced such an impressive season that he made the All-Australian side and was named vice-captain.

Hawthorn midfielder Jai Newcombe boots a goal against Collingwood in round 23. Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

The Crows skipper also claimed the AFL Players Association’s Most Courageous Player award.

“There’s so many more [abusive posts] than what we actually see,” Newcombe said.

“It’s a bit of a tricky one, but acting on something when players are comfortable enough to put themselves on the line and actually show what’s being said, and making sure they’re getting the support they need … is pretty important.”

Adelaide chief executive Tim Silvers slammed the message sent to Dawson as “disgusting and disturbing”.

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