GWS Giants confirmed that Josh Fahey has been handed a four-match suspension by the AFL for a costume he wore at the club’s end-of-season function and for his involvement in a skit performed at the event.
It comes as five other players were issued lesser suspensions after reports emerged this week that the AFL were investigating the club’s ‘Wacky Wednesday’ party that had the theme ‘controversial couples’.
Reports had claimed that several of the players had donned distasteful outfits while some had also performed some ‘unsavoury skits’.
Five other players, including Jake Riccardi, Toby McMullin, Harvey Thomas, Joe Fonti and Cooper Hamilton, received two-match suspensions for their costumes and involvement in the skits.
Meanwhile, Connor Idun and Lachie Whitfield have both been handed $5,000 fines.
Toby Greene, Sam Taylor, Tom Green, Lachlan Keeffe and Harry Perryman were also fined $5,000 for failing to uphold the values of the club.
There is no accusation that any of the alleged behaviour was criminal.
The AFL and the Giants have been conducting an investigation into the matter, with the club’s internal probe initially clearing the players of any illegal activity.
Giants chief executive officer David Matthews said: ‘There is absolutely no excuse for the behaviour that took place and we’re very distressed by some of the incidents that occurred,’
‘As a club built on the values of inclusiveness and respect for all, it was a clear breach of the club’s policies and values as well as a significant departure from the standards of behaviour that we expect of our players.
‘We have taken these matters seriously from the outset with a full investigation by the club, alongside the AFL.
‘On behalf of the club, I apologise to our members, partners and all stakeholders. ‘The players involved have apologised unreservedly for their behaviour 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 severity of the situation and the sanctions reflect that. As a club, alongside the AFL playing group, we take full responsibility and are implementing measures to ensure this never happens again.’
In a statement issued online, the club said it had committed to ‘providing further and meaningful education for the entire AFL playing group.’
GWS added that it would also ‘review and implement practices to strengthen and enhance culture’ and ‘review practices and procedures around player events’.
Giants AFLW captain Rebecca Beeson also condemned the behaviour in the statement.
‘It is important that we make it known that we were deeply hurt and angered when learning of the behaviour that occurred,’ Beeson said.
More to follow…
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