Carlton is set to be hit with a substantial fine after the AFL revealed its findings from a review into how the Blues deemed Elijah Hollands fit to play. According to reports from The Age, the club will be forced to pay a $75,000 fine, which will be directed to mental health service provider Headspace.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon is expected to make an announcement later today, though exact details may be scant due to an active WorkSafe investigation that is still ongoing.
Carlton came under scrutiny after distressing vision of Hollands emerged during their April 16 loss to Collingwood, in which he gathered just one touch despite being on the field for the majority of the game. Hollands was subsequently admitted to hospital with what the club described as a mental health episode. The club undertook an internal investigation as they faced fierce criticism for not removing him from the game earlier.
The 24-year-old has previously admitted to experiencing panic attacks during games and battling anxiety. On Friday, coach Michael Voss did not provide a specific update on Hollands’ condition and insisted the Blues’ public focus had shifted.
“The week’s been about getting back into the normal flow of a week and that’s what we’ve tried to do,” Voss said. “But in the background there’s that continual support that we need to continue to provide. We’re eyes locked forward but obviously still continuing to provide that support where we need to.”
Voss had previously hit back at criticism over the situation, accusing the media of “bullying” club staff. Channel 7’s Tom Morris also revealed that Carlton club doctor Matt Chamberlain took personal leave in the aftermath.
LIFELINE: 13 11 14
