'Fair bit of anger across the whole AFLW' after Swans players' allegation

The Sydney Swans women's team has become an unwilling target of anger and frustration within the AFLW community following allegations of sexual assault against five of the men's team members. The players in question, Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, James Jordon and Riley Bice, have been suspended from the 2026 season for breaching club behavioural standards.

However, their suspension comes amid an ongoing Victoria Police investigation into an alleged sexual assault at the Pullman Hotel, where the Swans were staying following their win over Essendon on Sunday night. No charges have been filed, and the players are not being accused of the assault.

AFLW pioneer Chyloe Kurdas expressed the hurt and anger felt across the women's football space, stating that it has been a "horrific" week for many women in the sport. Diversity and inclusion leader Rana Hussain emphasized that sexual violence is a very real issue for women, with one in five Australian women experiencing sexual violence in their lifetime.

Hussain warned against placing the burden of change on the women of the Sydney Swans, urging the club to address the cultural and emotional labor surrounding these incidents.

The double-header between the men's and women's teams at the SCG has drawn additional attention to the women's program, with Swans women's players and coaches yet to comment publicly. However, the impact on the women's team is clear, as they will be faced with media scrutiny and potential questioning about the actions of their male counterparts.

The club's CEO, Matthew Pavlich, expressed deep disappointment in the suspended players and stated that the club is supporting them as best it can. Former AFLW All Australian and commentator Kate McCarthy criticized the AFL for not doing enough to engage and include women and girls in football spaces safely.