Geelong Star Faces AFL Suspension After Outburst Towards Female Photographer
GEELONG – A Geelong Cats star is facing potential suspension from the AFL following an outburst directed at a female photographer, Alison Wynd from News Corp, during a training session open to the media. The incident has sparked criticism of the AFL’s handling of the matter, with accusations of inaction and double standards.
Veteran football journalist Damian Barrett voiced his concerns on Nine’s Footy Classified, questioning why the AFL has seemingly “done absolutely nothing” in response to the player’s behavior. Barrett argued that the player’s actions violated the AFL’s code of conduct, which emphasizes respect and responsibility for all individuals involved in the game.
“I feel it was behavior that did come under the respect and responsibility requirements of AFL players under the code of conduct,” Barrett stated. “I just can’t line up with the AFL doing absolutely nothing on this, just walking past it.”
While the player has reportedly apologized and sent a text message to the photographer, Barrett believes the AFL should have taken a more public and meaningful stance on the issue. He contrasted the situation with the AFL’s decision to fine Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley $20,000 last year for a post-game comment, highlighting what he perceives as inconsistent disciplinary measures.
“I don’t get how you can walk past the Bailey Smith issue without any form of addressing it publicly,” Barrett questioned.
Last week, Caroline Wilson, another veteran football journalist, labeled the player a “brat” in a scathing commentary on 3AW radio, further intensifying the scrutiny surrounding the incident.
The controversy comes on the heels of another verbal abuse scandal involving Geelong coach Chris Scott, who reportedly made a junior female AFL staffer cry after berating her following the Cats’ qualifying final. These incidents have raised concerns about the culture within the Geelong Football Club and the AFL’s commitment to protecting women in the sport.
As the AFL prepares for Friday night’s preliminary final between Geelong and Hawthorn at the MCG, the pressure is mounting to take decisive action against the player involved in the outburst. A suspension could have significant implications for Geelong’s chances in the finals series, but critics argue that the AFL must prioritize upholding its code of conduct and sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
