The AFL wishes to advise that Sydney Swans listed player Riak Andrew has been found guilty of breaching AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming) in relation to an incident during the first quarter of the VFL match between the Sydney Swans and North Melbourne at Tramway Oval on Saturday 19 July.

The incident was reported to the umpire by a North Melbourne player at the end of the first quarter and subsequently to the AFL, following which an investigation was undertaken by the AFL Integrity Unit.

That investigation found that Andrew used a highly offensive homophobic slur towards a North Melbourne opponent, which demeans and denigrates persons regardless of their sexuality.

In the course of the investigation, Andrew made full admissions and was remorseful and apologetic.

Andrew has received a five-AFL match sanction. He will not be eligible to play for the Sydney Swans in the AFL or VFL for the next five weeks, noting that period encompasses Rounds 20 to 24 of the AFL Season and any VFL matches that correspond with those AFL rounds.

As a part of the sanction Andrew will also undertake Pride in Sport education.

“It is important that we continue to make clear that homophobia or homophobic language has no place in our game at any level or in the wider community for that matter,” AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said.

“It is disappointing to be dealing with another incident and while we will always examine the individual circumstances, the clear message is that this language is not acceptable in any workplace and that includes on the field of play”

All AFL and AFLW Players and officials receive yearly education regarding vilification and the effects of such behaviour, and we will continue to build on anti-vilification training across our code at all levels.