Five Australian rules footy players suspended amid police investigation

Five Australian Football League (AFL) players have been suspended from the top league for the remainder of the season due to late-night drinking and inviting women to a hotel room after a match in Melbourne. The players - Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice - were banned by their club, the Sydney Swans.

The suspension occurred following an investigation into an alleged sexual assault that prosecutors say allegedly took place at the Pullman Hotel in the early hours of Monday morning, where the players were staying post-match. However, none of the players have been arrested or charged in the investigation.

Sydney Swans chairman Andrew Pridham expressed regret and apologized to fans, players, and the wider community, stating that the sanctions were imposed because the players violated the club's standards by drinking alcohol past accepted hours and inviting women to the hotel. The AFL also supports the club's decision to suspend the players.

Swans chief executive Matthew Pavlich described the incident as deeply embarrassing and ashamed, expressing concern for the welfare of the involved women. It was unclear whether the players had undergone drug testing, with any testing being part of the ongoing police inquiry. Victoria Police spokesperson mentioned that officers had spoken to several individuals at the hotel, but no formal interviews or arrests were made.

AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon described the reports of the alleged sexual assault as deeply concerning. Sydney Swans currently hold the second position on the ladder, ensuring their participation in the qualifying and elimination finals round beginning in two weeks. The club's next match is scheduled for Sunday against North Melbourne at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which will be the final fixture before the finals.