AFL diversity manager Ali Fahour has fronted the media and released a statement following an incident in the Northern Football League on Saturday.
Fahour, playing for West Preston-Lakeside against Whittlesea, king hit an opposition player during the third quarter, who was concussed and could not return to the game, while Fahour was sent-off following the incident.
Fahour will front the NFL tribunal on Wednesday night, but addressed the media with a pre-mediated statement.
"On Saturday afternoon, I was playing local football for my club - West Preston Lakeside - and I struck a player from the opposition during a melee on the field," Fahour said in a statement to the media at AFL House on Monday afternoon.
"I accepted a two-match suspension on Saturday afternoon, and rang my manager from the AFL on the way home from the football match.
"The incident has now been referred to the Northern Football League’s tribunal which will sit on Wednesday night.
"I’m deeply ashamed of my actions. There is no explanation or excuse.
"I accept that at no time is this kind of action acceptable on the football field or anywhere else.
"I will face the tribunal on Wednesday and plead guilty; and make a formal apology to the NFL, Dale Saddington (the victim), the Whittlesea Football club and my teammates.
"I will fully accept the outcomes of the tribunal.
"I’ve apologised to Dale and hope the he accepts my apology. His health is the most important issue.
"I understand that my action reflect on my employer, the AFL, and the programs that I oversee.
"The AFL’s work in the community is so important, and I’m extremely sorry that my actions take away from that work.
"I’ve spoken with my manager from the AFL and they will not make any comment before the hearing on Wednesday night."