>
AFL boss drops Grand Final 2022 bomb, saying he can STAY in chief executive role until Hawthorn native players scandal is properly investigated and resolved
- A former Hawthorn player has made horrific accusations against his former club
- He said the coaching staff wanted his partner to abort their unborn child
- Coaches Alastair Clarkson and Chris Fagan were reportedly at the meeting
- They have been dropped off by their clubs while the case is under investigation
- Outgoing AFL chief Gil McLachlan may stay on until the investigation is completed and there is a suitable outcome for all parties
<!–
<!–
<!–
<!–
<!–
<!–
Outgoing AFL boss Gillon McLachlan has not ruled out an extended stay as chief executive to ensure there is a proper investigation and a happy ending of the Hawthorn scandal that grips the game this week.
Allegations have emerged from an ABC report that a former Indigenous player was told by then-coach Alastair Clarkson to urge his partner to end their pregnancy, end their relationship and move in with an assistant coach.
Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan was the football manager of the Hawks at the time and it is alleged that he attended the meeting where the player – who made his statement under the false name ‘Ian’ – was allegedly given the horrific directives.
AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan speaks at the 2022 North Melbourne Grand Final Breakfast at Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Center
Clarkson was signed to coach the North Melbourne Kangaroos for 2023. Both Clarkson and Fagan have withdrawn from their respective clubs until the investigation is completed.
At the AFL Grand Final 2022 breakfast hosted by North Melbourne, McLachlan said he would remain in charge of the investigation if asked by AFL committee chair Richard Goyder.
“I would be remiss not to talk about this week’s challenges and of course that needs to be resolved for both the complainants and the accused. That will happen,” he said.
Alastair Clarkson, Senior Coach of the Hawks watches with Chris Fagan, General Manager Football Operations during the 2015 AFL Round 22 between the Hawks and Lions
“That’s a decision for Richard and of course I’ll have something to say about that, but it’s something that’s incredibly important that’s being resolved. It is now on foot and I think it is a fair question whether I will stay through that.
‘It has to be arranged.
“I am responsible for most things, but that is the role of President Richard (Goyder) at the Commission. We sometimes have discussions about things, but that is a process for the Commission.’
McLachlan was interviewed by former St Kilda star and media personality Nick Riewoldt, who joked that McLachlan’s retirement from the AFL was dragging on.
“This retirement tour of yours has a real John Farnham vibe, it just goes on and on,” he said.
“See you next year,” McLachlan said with a laugh.
Goyder opened the breakfast of the 2022 Grand Final by acknowledging the charges against Hawthorn, Clarkson and Fagan.
AFL Committee Chair Richard Goyder (left) and AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan arrive at the 2022 North Melbourne Grand Final Breakfast
“Today the game faces a new challenge, following the harrowing allegations that have surfaced this week of former Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Hawthorn players and their partners who have shared their disturbing stories,” he said.
“First, there is tremendous courage in telling your story and sharing your experiences and the immense pain, anger and sadness you feel.
“The AFL Committee recognizes your pain and our commitment is to provide all the care we can while ensuring that the work of the panel appointed to investigate provides the most equitable outcome for all parties involved.
“One of the strongest elements of football is that the footy family comes together so strongly and effectively when one of us faces major challenges and/or faces tragedy.
“It’s critical that the best of the footy family come together at this time, together to seize the moment and improve every part of our game.
“We need to make sure everyone is really welcome and really safe in our game.”