'We have let down our partners and families': Suspended Sydney Swans players break silence
The club said the five players — who were named earlier on Wednesday — have been suspended for a breach of standards for being out late.
Five Sydney Swans AFL players have spoken out for the first time after the club suspended them for breaching standards following a sexual assault investigation. In a statement posted to the club's website, the players expressed deep regret for letting down their partners, families, teammates, and the wider community. Club chairman Andrew Pridham apologized to fans, corporate partners, and the wider community, but stated the club had not contacted the women involved as it was a police matter.
The five suspended players are Riley Bice, Nick Blakey, Isaac Heeney, James Jordon, and Chad Warner, who are not considered for selection for the remainder of the season. The incident occurred at the Pullman Hotel in East Melbourne, where an alleged sexual assault is under investigation by Victoria Police. The club explained that the sanctions were in response to the players' own breaches of standards, including staying out late and bringing women back to the hotel.
Club CEO Matthew Pavlich confirmed the sanctions were independent of the police investigation. When asked if the club had apologized to the women involved, Pavlich stated the club would not interfere with the police matter. Pridham and Pavlich defended the club's culture, emphasizing the club's commitment to respect and support for women.
The club's AFLW team expressed disappointment in the incident and prioritized the welfare of all involved.
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