GWS Giants confirmed that Josh Fahey has been handed a four-match ban by the AFL over a costume he wore to the club’s end-of-year party and his involvement in a skit performed at the event.
It comes as five other players were handed reduced bans after reports emerged this week that the AFL was investigating the club’s ‘Wacky Wednesday’ party themed around ‘controversial couples’.
According to reports, several players had donned unsavory outfits, while some had also performed some ‘unsavory skits’.
Five other players, including Jake Riccardi, Toby McMullin, Harvey Thomas, Joe Fonti and Cooper Hamilton, received two-match suspensions for their costumes and involvement in the skits.
Meanwhile, Connor Idun and Lachie Whitfield have both been fined $5,000.
Toby Greene, Sam Taylor, Tom Green, Lachlan Keeffe and Harry Perryman were also fined $5,000 for failing to uphold the club’s values.
There is no allegation that the alleged conduct was criminal.
The AFL and Giants conducted an investigation into the matter, with the club’s internal investigation initially clearing the players of any illegal activity.
Giants CEO David Matthews said: ‘There is absolutely no excuse for the behavior that has taken place and we are deeply saddened by some of the incidents that have taken place.’
‘As a club built on the values of inclusivity and respect for all, it was a clear breach of the club’s policies and values, as well as a significant departure from the standards of behavior we expect from our players.
“We have taken these matters seriously from the outset with a full investigation by the club, together with the AFL.
“On behalf of the club, I apologize to our members, partners and all stakeholders. “The players involved have apologized unreservedly for their behavior and take responsibility for breaching the standards we expect of respect, equality, inclusivity and safety.
“We believe this is an isolated incident, but we understand the seriousness of the situation and the sanctions reflect that. As a club we, along with the AFL playing group, take full responsibility and are taking action to ensure this never happens again.”
In an online statement, the club said it was committed to “providing further and more meaningful education to the entire AFL player base.”
GWS added that it would also “review and implement practices to strengthen and improve culture” and “review practices and procedures around player events.”
Giants AFLW captain Rebecca Beeson also condemned the behavior in the statement.
“It is important that we let it be known that we were deeply hurt and angry when we learned of the behavior that occurred,” Beeson said.
More to follow…