A Victorian court has ordered the AFL to release an interview between the anti-doping authority ASADA and former Essendon coach James Hird regarding the club's supplements scandal. The order was made in favour of former Essendon player Hal Hunter, who alleges the club breached its duty of care over supplement use during his time as a rookie from December 2011 to September 2013.
Hunter's lawyers state he was injected with unknown substances as part of the club's controversial supplements program, and he fears potential health risks. The legal team has been seeking documents from Essendon and the AFL to determine whether to pursue legal action against the club.
Justice Mukthar ruled that while Hunter's team already had most necessary documents, the AFL must provide 12 arch binders of documents referencing Hunter by name, along with the April 2013 interview between Hird and ASADA.
Player agent Peter Jess, who managed three Essendon players involved in the program, expressed disappointment at the lack of transparency from the club and the AFL. He noted the mental anguish players face from not knowing what substances they were given and the potential long-term health effects.
Jess highlighted that scientists have indicated some cell enhancers used are indiscriminate, potentially enhancing both good and bad cells, with uncertain lead times for effects. He stressed the importance of players knowing the risks they face.
