Sydney Swans listed participant Riak Andrew has been hit with a five-match ban for utilizing a homophobic slur in a VFL match in opposition to North Melbourne.
An investigation by the AFL integrity unit discovered Andrew responsible of breaching the code of conduct after his actions have been reported to the umpire by a rival participant on Saturday.
Sydney confirmed following the match that Andrew “understands the language he used is unacceptable” and had taken “full accountability” for the incident.
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“I’m deeply sorry for the phrase that I utilized in Saturday’s sport and any damage that it has prompted,” Andrew mentioned.
“Whereas I didn’t perceive the complete impression of the phrases I used on the time, I actually do now, and have deep remorse for my actions.
Riak Andrew throughout a 2025 AFL neighborhood collection match between Gold Coast Suns and Sydney Swans. by way of Getty Photos
“This has impacted not solely our membership however the broader neighborhood, and for that I’m actually sorry. I’m dedicated to utilizing this as a chance to be taught and get higher.”
Andrew will probably be ineligible to characterize the Swans over the subsequent 5 weeks in each the AFL and VFL. He will even need to undertake a Pleasure in Sport schooling program.
It comes simply two weeks after the AFL banned West Coast’s Jack Graham for 4 matches after he used a homophobic slur in opposition to GWS.
“It’s disappointing to be coping with one other incident,” AFL basic counsel Stephen Meade mentioned in an announcement about Andrew’s ban.
“Whereas we’ll at all times study the person circumstances, the clear message is that this language shouldn’t be acceptable in any office and that features on the sphere of play.”
The league confirmed it would proceed to “construct on anti-vilification coaching” for all AFL and AFLW gamers and officers in wake of current incidents.
Andrew was recruited to the Swans on evening two of the 2024 draft after enjoying for Dandenong Stingrays. He’s the brother of Suns star Mac Andrew.
Sydney Swans chief govt Tom Harley described the behaviour as disappointing.
“This behaviour doesn’t replicate the values of our membership, and we take this matter very critically,” he mentioned after the match on Saturday.
“Whereas it’s disappointing, we recognise that Riak is in the beginning of his profession and we’ll use this as a chance to supply help and schooling, to make sure Riak understands the impression of his phrases.
“In a fortnight we will probably be enjoying within the Pleasure Recreation, a match that’s extremely essential to our membership. We’re dedicated to making a secure, respectful, and inclusive surroundings.”
