Live: Swans captain 'extremely shocked' at scandal
Sydney Swans coach Dean Cox and captain Callum Mills address the club's scandal ahead of this weekend's match against North Melbourne.
Sydney Swans captain Callum Mills expressed shock and disappointment at the scandal that has engulfed the club. The club's CEO Matthew Pavlich and chairman Andrew Pridham had addressed the media earlier in the week regarding the suspension of five players for breaching standards on drinking and staying out late following a recent win. The suspended players - Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice, and James Jordon - are Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice and James Jordon.
Mills and coach Dean Cox are speaking to reporters about the scandal. Mills expressed concern for the mental health of the suspended players, stating that the well-being of everyone involved is of utmost importance.
Cox denied claims of a rift within the playing group, stating that there is unity within the group. The suspended players are expected to meet with the rest of the team in the future. Both Cox and Mills could not comment on the number of individuals present at a hotel, citing an ongoing police investigation.
Cox expressed disappointment in the actions of the suspended players, emphasizing the club's serious stance on the matter. Mills also condemned the actions, asking that the women involved in the allegations receive the support they deserve. Cox apologized to the female staff, women in the community, and the women within the club, emphasizing the importance of respect for women.
The club's culture has taken a hit, Cox acknowledged, and they are working to restore trust and improve the culture. The club's men's team will play against North Melbourne on Sunday, followed by an AFLW match between Sydney's women's team and Essendon's women's team.
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