AFL boss Andrew Dillon has strongly rejected a suggestion from the appeals board chair that racist, sexist and homophobic language is commonplace among players.
Dillon’s response comes after the chair of the appeals board, Will Houghton KC, suggested such language is commonplace in the AFL due to the “highly competitive” nature of the sport after reducing St Kilda’ forward Lance Collard’s suspension for using a homophobic slur in the VFL.
The appeals board last night imposed a four-week suspension, with two matches suspended until the end of next year.
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“In the AFL’s view, stronger action was not only warranted, it was necessary,” Dillon said in a statement on Friday afternoon, in part.
“Let’s be clear — homophobia has no place in Australian football. Not at any level. Not under any circumstances.
“The AFL specifically rejects the appeals board’s reasoning which stated, ‘it is commonplace that players can employ language from time to time which is racist, sexist or homophobic whilst on the field.’
“The AFL strongly rejects the statement not only that such language is commonplace, but also any implication that may be a factor in determining the severity of the sanction.”
Lance Collard (pictured) had a nine-week suspension for a homophobic slur reduced to just four weeks after an appeals board hearing on Thursday. (Getty Images: Jonathan DiMaggio)
The AFL Players’ Association (AFLPA) said it was “deeply concerned” by Houghton’s statement at the appeals board.
“The AFLPA does not accept the suggestion that vilification is ‘commonplace’ on the field between players,” AFLPA boss James Gallagher said in a statement on Friday.
“No matter how hard or competitive the game is, there is no excuse for racist, sexist, or homophobic language and this language is hurtful to communities beyond the individual it is directed at.
“Every step of this process has caused more harm to the LGBTQIA+ community, the First Nations community, and the individuals at the centre of this issue and that is something the industry must deeply reflect on.
“We have a shared responsibility to develop an approach that is fair, minimises and remedies the harms caused, and shifts behaviour.
“Football is for everyone and all players and the AFLPA remain committed to playing our part in building a culture where everyone is valued, respected, and safe.”
Dillon also noted the AFL was initially seeking a 10-week suspension for Collard before the tribunal settled on a nine-week ban with two weeks suspended.
“That suspension reflected the seriousness of using a homophobic slur on the field and was intended to set a clear standard for our game, particularly given it was a second offence,” he said.
“We acknowledge there are always broader considerations in these matters, and they must be handled with care.
“But they do not override the responsibility everyone has to meet the standards of the game.
“We are clear on where we stand.
“Respect and inclusion are not optional in our game — they are fundamental.”