GWS Giants have confirmed that Josh Fahey has received a four-match suspension from the AFL for a costume he wore to the club’s end-of-season function and his involvement in a skit performed at the event.
It comes as five other players received minor suspensions after reports emerged this week that the AFL was investigating the club’s “Wacky Wednesday” party which had a “controversial couples” theme.
Reports claimed that several of the players had donned disgusting outfits, while some had also performed some “disgusting skits.”
Five other players, including Jake Riccardi, Toby McMullin, Harvey Thomas, Joe Fonti and Cooper Hamilton, received two-game suspensions for their costumes and participation in the skits.
Meanwhile, Connor Idun and Lachie Whitfield were fined $5,000.
Toby Greene, Sam Taylor, Tom Green, Lachlan Keeffe and Harry Perryman were also fined $5,000 for failing to respect the club’s values.
There is no allegation that any of the alleged conduct was criminal.
The AFL and the Giants have been conducting an investigation into the matter, and the club’s internal investigation initially cleared the players of any illegal activity.
Giants chief executive David Matthews said: “There is absolutely no excuse for the behavior that took place and we are very distressed by some of the incidents that occurred.”
“As a club built on the values of inclusion and respect for all, it was a clear violation of the club’s policies and values, as well as a significant deviation from the standards of behavior we expect from our players.
“We have taken these matters seriously from the beginning 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 contravening the standards we expect in relation to respect, equality, inclusion and safety.
‘We believe this is an isolated incident, but we understand the seriousness of the situation and the sanctions reflect this. “As a club, together with the AFL playing group, we take full responsibility and are putting measures in place to ensure this never happens again.”
In a statement issued online, the club said it was committed to “providing additional and meaningful education for the entire group of AFL players”.
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 make it known that we are deeply hurt and angry when we learned of the behavior that occurred,” Beeson said.
More to follow…
