St Kilda's Lance Collard to Learn Sanction for Homophobic Slur on Tuesday
The sanction imposed on St Kilda forward Lance Collard, after an AFL disciplinary tribunal found he used a homophobic slur on-field, will be determined on Tuesday. A hearing is scheduled to begin at 1pm WA time to decide Collard's penalty, following the tribunal's verdict that he called Frankston opponent Darby Hipwell a derogatory term during a VFL clash last month.
Details of the Allegation and Tribunal Process
In a marathon hearing last week, the AFL indicated they would seek a 10-week suspension if the allegation against Collard was upheld. The tribunal failed to reach a decision in a three-and-a-half hour session on Thursday before delivering their written verdict on Friday afternoon. Hipwell and teammate Bailey Lambert both testified, stating they heard Collard use the slur during a brawl.
Collard has maintained his innocence throughout this process, signing a statutory declaration that he instead called Hipwell a 'maggot'. This contrasts with his 2024 incident, where he admitted guilt, received a six-game suspension, and underwent Pride in Sport training for using homophobic language in a VFL game.
Club Response and Ongoing Proceedings
After the allegation was upheld, St Kilda expressed disappointment with the decision. In a statement, the club said, 'The process is ongoing, with further submissions from both parties to be made on any penalty. The club is also reviewing the tribunal's written findings and will consider its position, including avenues of appeal. We will continue to support Lance throughout this process.'
The outcome of Tuesday's hearing will be closely watched, as it highlights ongoing issues of discrimination and conduct in Australian football. Collard's case underscores the AFL's commitment to addressing inappropriate language, with potential implications for future disciplinary actions.
