- Joel Smith’s father believes his son is being ‘scapegoated’
- Smith, 28, is at the center of a cocaine scandal
- Smith Sr believes his son is being used as a scapegoat
Joel Smith’s father claims the AFL is making his son a “scapegoat” in an effort to cover up the widespread use of illicit drugs in sport.
Melbourne star Smith, 28, risks facing a multi-year ban after he tested positive for cocaine following his club match in August 2023.
Smith has also been charged with drug trafficking amid a Sport Integrity Australia investigation.
At least four of Smith’s Demons teammates are reportedly sweating over the outcome of the trafficking investigation, with the SIA uncovering a text message sent by Smith in which he allegedly said he had obtained several grams of cocaine earlier to ask if they were interested. .
It is understood the message was sent to a group of Melbourne stars.
Joel Smith’s father believes he is being made a ‘scapegoat’ amid his drug ordeal
Smith may contest his case in an anti-doping tribunal, but his father Shaun, a former Melbourne player, has claimed his son is being pressured to remain silent and take the blame to prevent a bigger scandal from breaking out.
“It seems as if my son is being manipulated into being the scapegoat here, in order to protect the AFL brand,” he told News Corp.
“They’re making him a scapegoat and I’m really worried about him.
“Will they throw Joel under a bus?” Because it seems like that’s what’s happening.
“The AFL appears determined to cover up widespread illegal drug abuse in some clubs.”
He said he has told his son to seek alternative legal advice to better protect himself.
“Because I’ve been pushing to get another legal opinion, this has really hurt my relationship with Joel,” she said.
“They have driven a wedge between my son and his family.”
Shaun Smith (left) says his son is expected to take the hit and not expose what he believes is widespread drug use in the AFL.
‘Joel and his lawyers should tell SIA everything. “You have to tell the truth,” Smith Sr. added.
“You don’t help your teammates by covering for them if they are hurting themselves like many of them are right now.”