Lance Collard, a player from St Kilda, has been found to have used a homophobic slur during a VFL match in March. However, no sanction has been decided yet. The AFL announced this on Friday evening following an extended independent disciplinary tribunal hearing that lasted nearly five hours on Thursday.
The tribunal determined that Collard breached AFL Rule 2.3(a) (conduct unbecoming) by using a homophobic slur directed at an opponent. This is not the first time Collard has faced such allegations. He was suspended for six matches in 2024 after admitting to using a similar slur in a VFL game. During the recent hearing, Collard denied using a homophobic slur this time, stating he said, “Come here, you maggot,” to his opponent and former Sandringham teammate Darby Hipwell.
In a brief statement, the AFL mentioned that a sanction hearing will be arranged to determine the penalty, with the date and time to be confirmed. The league emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards the use of homophobic language in the sport and highlighted the education provided to all AFL and VFL players.
St Kilda expressed disappointment with the decision and confirmed that both parties would submit their arguments regarding any potential penalty. The club stated it is reviewing the tribunal’s findings and will consider possible appeals. They also mentioned they will continue to support Collard throughout the process and will not make further comments as the matter remains ongoing.
The AFL argued during the hearing that Collard should receive a “10-week” suspension if found guilty.
Key Points About the Case
- Lance Collard was previously suspended for six matches in 2024 after admitting to using a homophobic slur.
- During the recent hearing, Collard denied using a slur and claimed he said, “Come here, you maggot.”
- The AFL has not yet decided on a sanction but has indicated that a hearing will be held.
- The league maintains a strict stance against homophobic language and emphasizes player education.
- St Kilda expressed disappointment and is reviewing the tribunal’s findings while supporting Collard.
South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas, has pledged to block the proposal to expand the opening round of the AFL season to include matches in Queensland and NSW. He believes this could risk South Australia’s investment in Gather Round and insists on exclusivity in negotiations with the AFL.
Sydney chairman Andrew Pridham has suggested including all clubs in the opening round in the future, creating a version of Gather Round earlier in the season. However, Malinauskas dismissed this idea, arguing that replicating Gather Round in a half-hearted way would diminish its unique appeal.
“There’s a secret sauce to Gather Round because it’s unique and different. If you try and replicate it in a way that’s sort of half-pregnant, you’re going to end up diminishing the real thing that’s got a magic to it,” Malinauskas said.
He also mentioned that a new contract to continue Gather Round is expected to be finalized soon. However, he cautioned against rushing the process, emphasizing the need to get it right rather than making hasty decisions.
Malinauskas also aims to include hosting a State of Origin game next year in the AFL negotiations. He believes the state government now has more leverage than before and sees an opportunity to negotiate favorable terms.
“Next year is the 150th anniversary of the SANFL. I think that’s as good a time as any if we can pull it off,” he said.
The AFL is also considering contingencies for future Gather Rounds, especially with Tasmania joining the competition in 2028 as the 19th team. One option under consideration is having Adelaide or Port Adelaide bookend Gather Round by playing two games in five days.
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