West Coast have apologised for using the term “yellow peril” to promote the heritage guernsey worn in last week’s AFL win over Richmond, saying it was an honest mistake.

The Eagles twice used the term “yellow peril” on their Facebook page in reference to the one-off guernsey, which was used to pay homage to the club’s 30-year anniversary.

The term yellow peril is a derogative and xenophobic phrase used to describe Asians who were perceived to be a danger to Western interests.

West Coast chief executive Trevor Nisbett says the young member of its communications team who used the term was unaware of the history behind it and the racist connotations it engendered.

“The club is committed to cultural diversity, inclusion and equality and as such unreservedly apologises for any offence the reference has caused,” West Coast chief executive Trevor Nisbett said in a statement.