Aussie Olympics star Tom Craig is hit with a HUGE ban after his Paris Games cocaine bust
- Hockey player, 29, arrested on street in Paris
- Spent the night in police cells after arrest
Olympic athlete Tom Craig has been banned for 12 months by Hockey Australia after he was arrested for buying cocaine on a street in Paris.
In imposing the ban, the HA’s Integrity Unit determined that half of the sanction would be served in full from September 9, with the remaining six months being fully suspended, provided Craig complied with behaviour and conduct requirements.
While suspended, 29-year-old Craig is prohibited from participating in any match, competition or event at any level organised by Hockey Australia (HA), including the Hockey One League and the FIH Pro League.
As part of his sentence, he must also complete a number of education and training programs.
Craig is still eligible for selection to next year’s national men’s hockey team.
“His well-being remains our priority,” a statement from the HA said.
“Tom has had access to all athlete support services through our program and will continue to do so during his suspension.”
Craig spent a night in custody after being arrested for buying a gram of cocaine on the street in Paris last month, after the Kookaburras completed their Olympic campaign.
Craig (pictured at the Olympics in August) has been banned from playing hockey for a year after a cocaine bust he called a “terrible mistake”
Pictured: Craig sits on the sidewalk with his hands behind his back in the moments after his arrest at the Paris Games
“I made a terrible mistake and I take full responsibility for my actions,” Craig said after being fired with a warning from Paris police headquarters.
‘My actions are my own and in no way reflect the values of my family, my teammates, my friends, my sport or the Australian Olympic team.
“I embarrassed you all. I’m truly sorry.”