AFL CEO Andrew Dillon provided a statement on Tuesday night, as headlines around the country centre around the conduct of a handful of Sydney Swans players on Sunday night.
Police investigations are still ongoing, after they were called to a scene at the Pullman Hotel, a stone's throw from the MCG, where the Swans were staying following their victory over Essendon at that venue, on Sunday night.
Allegations of sexual assault have been reported, with Dillon addressing such matters in his statement.
The AFL are weighing up whether or not to suspend Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Riley Bice and James Jordon for conduct unbecoming, that brings the code into disrepute, separate to the police investigation.
The statement reads:
The conduct and serious allegations regarding Sydney Swans players are deeply concerning.
While the matter remains under police investigation, it raises broader issues for our game and our responsibilities as a sport.
The woman who made the report to police is entitled to privacy and care, and that should be respected.
It is important that the police process is allowed to run its course.
Sexual assault allegations are serious, regardless of who is involved, what time of year it is, or what they may mean for a season.
Our first question should not be what this means for a football club. It should be whether our actions match the standards we stand for and the community expects of us.
As a sport, and as an industry, we are clear about the standards we expect and the values we stand for and the need to uphold them.
Being clear about our standards also means being prepared to act when those standards are not met.
Notwithstanding the ongoing police investigation, the AFL and the Sydney Swans will consider the broader conduct of the players as more information comes to light.
