The AFL has handed St Kilda rookie Lance Collard a six-game suspension for the use of homophobic language during a VFL match over the weekend.
An AFL Integrity Unit investigation into allegations made of homophobic abuse from Collard was revealed earlier this week in the wake of Saturday's match between Sandringham and Williamstown.
It was alleged that Collard hurled abuse toward multiple Williamstown players during the match, with those involved assisting the AFL's investigation into the allegations.
The league has found Collard guilty of conduct unbecoming and has suspended the Saints player for six matches at both AFL and VFL level, meaning his season in the top flight is over.
The AFL states Collard admitted and understood his behaviour was wrong and has since apologised to the players involved.
โThere is no excuse for using the language that Collard used on the weekend. Everyone understands it is totally unacceptable in any setting, ever,โ AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said in a league statement.
โThe AFL is very clear that homophobia has no place in our game, nor in society. We want everyone to feel safe playing in our game and Collard's behaviour does not help this.
โAs a code we will continue to work together to improve our game as a safe and inclusive environment for all.โ
Sandringham have four matches remaining in their 2024 VFL season and currently sit two points outside of a wildcard finals position.
Collard played three games under Ross Lyon earlier this year, having made his debut in Round 1 against Geelong.
โI am incredibly remorseful for my comments and any hurt they may have caused,โ Collard said in a club statement.
โI'm disappointed in myself and fully accept the consequences for my behaviour.
โWhat I did doesn't represent my values, or the values of the club. I have apologised to the Williamstown players who were impacted by my behaviour, and unreservedly reiterate that apology to anyone else my conduct affected.โ
