Lance Collard, a player for St Kilda, continues to maintain his innocence following a nine-match suspension for allegedly using a homophobic slur during a VFL match against Frankston in March. The decision was made by the AFL Disciplinary Tribunal and includes a two-week suspension that will be applied over the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
In a recent statement, the St Kilda Football Club announced their intention to appeal the tribunal’s decision. The club expressed support for Collard, who has consistently denied the allegations. They emphasized that the process has had a significant impact on him and pledged to defend his integrity through the appropriate channels. Additionally, the club acknowledged the effect this public matter has had on the LGBTQIA+ and First Nations communities.
The appeal hearing is expected to take place next week, with the AFL determining the exact timing. Collard’s defense centered around his claim that he used the phrase “Come here, you maggot” instead of a homophobic slur. However, the independent disciplinary tribunal ruled on April 10 that he did use a homophobic slur, after the case was initially scheduled but adjourned after five hours.
Tribunal chair Jeff Gleeson stated that the verdict was meant to send a clear message to AFL and VFL players that such language is unacceptable. This is not the first time Collard has faced consequences for similar behavior. In 2024, he was suspended for six matches after admitting to using a homophobic slur in a VFL game.
During the current case, AFL counsel Andrew Woods, SC, recommended a 10-week suspension, while St Kilda’s lawyer, Michael Borsky, KC, argued that such a punishment would be “unfairly punitive.” Borsky highlighted the challenges Collard has faced in his personal life, describing him as a young Indigenous man who has endured difficult circumstances, including domestic abuse. He also mentioned that Collard supports his grandmother financially.
The AFL Players Association submitted a report, which Borsky claimed indicated that a lengthy ban could be “disproportionate,” a “restraint of trade,” and potentially career-ending.
St Kilda coach Ross Lyon commented on the sensitivity of the situation, stating that he has been in daily contact with Collard. Lyon described Collard as a “good young man” and warned about the emotional toll of the tribunal system. He compared the experience to the high-profile case involving Port Adelaide star Zak Butters and umpire Nick Foot, emphasizing that such processes can have long-lasting effects on players involved.
The AFL is set to hold two appeal hearings next week. The first will focus on Butters’ case, which is scheduled for Monday evening. On Tuesday, Butters was found guilty of directing abusive language at Foot and was fined $1500. Both the Power and Butters dispute the finding, and he is free to play for Hawthorn on Saturday.
This ongoing situation highlights the complex interplay between athletic performance, personal conduct, and the broader implications for players and the community. As the appeals proceed, the spotlight remains on the individuals involved and the systems designed to uphold standards within the sport.
