St Kilda to Appeal Lance Collard’s Suspension
St Kilda has announced its intention to appeal the nine-week suspension imposed on Lance Collard, which includes two weeks suspended. The decision comes after Collard was found guilty of using a homophobic slur during a match in Round 2 of the VFL on March 27.
The incident led to Collard being charged under AFL Rule 2.3(a), which addresses “conduct unbecoming.” The club has released a statement expressing its commitment to supporting Collard through the appeals process.
Club Statement on the Suspension
In a statement, St Kilda Football Club said:
“St Kilda Football Club will appeal the AFL Disciplinary Tribunal’s decision to find Lance Collard guilty of AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming) towards an opponent, and the subsequent sanction of a nine-week suspension (with two weeks suspended).”
The club emphasized its continued support for Collard, who has maintained his position of innocence throughout the process. The statement noted that the situation has had a significant impact on Collard and that the club is determined to defend his integrity through the appropriate channels.
Impact on the Community
St Kilda also acknowledged the broader implications of the case, particularly for members of the LGBTQIA+ and First Nations communities. The club expressed empathy for the ongoing and public nature of the matter, highlighting its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
Next Steps in the Appeal Process
The AFL will determine the timing of the appeal hearing, which is expected to take place next week. At this stage, the club has decided not to make any further comments as the process continues.
Support from AFLPA
Lance Collard has consistently denied the allegations, and the AFL Players’ Association (AFLPA) has remained supportive of the young player. The AFLPA has emphasized its commitment to Collard’s welfare and has stood by him during this challenging time.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
While the appeal is still pending, the situation remains under close scrutiny. The outcome of the appeal could have significant implications for Collard’s career and the broader conversation around conduct and inclusivity within the sport.
Conclusion
The case highlights the importance of addressing inappropriate behavior in sports while also ensuring that players are given fair opportunities to defend themselves. As the appeal process unfolds, all eyes will be on the AFL to see how it handles this sensitive and high-profile matter.
