Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
The Sydney Swans board will meet tonight to determine the fate of players involved in an alleged sexual assault after what they described as a ‘serious breach’ of club standards.
The Swans are in crisis as the AFL club remains at the centre of a police investigation into an alleged sexual assault in Melbourne.
In a statement released on Tuesday night, AFL chief executive Dillon said the allegations and the conduct of the Swans players were “deeply concerning”.
Now the Swans have confirmed there will be punishments with their board meeting on Tuesday night to determine the severity.
“The Club believes the players are in serious breach of expected Club behaviour and standards, and it is appropriate to take firm action and highlight that any sanction we impose relates solely to those breaches,” they said.
“The Sydney Swans condemn all forms of abuse and disrespectful behaviour towards women. Any conduct that causes offence or harm to others is unacceptable and falls well short of our expectations. All women deserve to be respected and feel safe.
“We also want to acknowledge that the care and welfare of our AFLW athletes and staff is of the utmost importance to us as a Club. They have been and will continue to be offered the support they require, and we acknowledge the impact these allegations have on our female athletes, staff members and the wider community.
“Any further sanctions or decisions regarding the outcome of the police investigation would take place after that process is completed.”
The Swans said the club would be providing support to the players involved and their families throughout the process.
“The Sydney Swans hold all players and staff at the Club to high standards of behaviour and personal conduct. Representing this Club carries significant responsibilities both on and off the field, and we expect those standards to be upheld at all times,” the statement continued
“Our focus remains on cooperating fully with the AFL and authorities, maintaining the integrity of the process, and upholding the high standards expected of everyone who represents this Club.”
This masthead does not suggest that the Swans players who have spoken to police about the incident are under investigation, suspected or guilty of any wrongdoing. No players have been arrested or charged.
Sydney Swans captain Callum Mills has apologised to the club’s AFLW players on behalf of the men’s playing group following allegations of poor behaviour.
Mills spoke to the AFLW players in an informal setting just as they were about to start a skills session on the ground, acknowledging the hurt and pain being felt by many, if not all, of the women’s players.
It comes as 7News revealed Swans vice captain Isaac Heeney was the only player who attended a police station to speak with detectives. Heeney reportedly voluntarily attended the police station on Monday.
According to the 7NEWS report, Chad Warner, James Jordon and Riley Bice are expected to be ruled out of selection against North Melbourne this weekend. They were spoken to by police; however, no one has been arrested or formally interviewed.
The Swans players arrived back in Sydney on Tuesday after driving rental cars to avoid waiting media at the airport. Club officials met with each of the players at individual offsite locations.
Anyone with information that could assist police with their investigation are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Reports can be made anonymously.
1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service: 1800 211 028
