Former Port Adelaide forward and Sturt player Martin Frederick has been handed a two-game suspension for a homophobic slur directed at a North Adelaide player.
Frederick received a lighter sentence after he self-reported the incident that occurred in Round 15 of the SANFL.
“SANFL acknowledges there was an incident in Round 15 that was managed in accordance with AFL policy that has clear guidelines to support the wellbeing of all parties involved," a statement read from the SANFL.
Sturt chief executive Sue Dewing told The Advertiser Frederick has accepted the suspension and will complete the AFL's education module.
“Manguru (Frederick) immediately recognised his actions were unacceptable, self-reported following the match and has since written personally to the opposition player, offering his apology," she said.
“He remains extremely remorseful, has accepted the two-match suspension and will complete the AFL's respect and responsibility education module.
“While disappointed about the incident, the club acknowledges our player's immediate acceptance of responsibility, genuine remorse and willingness to learn from his mistake.
“The club is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful environment for all participants, supporters and members of our community. There is no place for discriminatory or vilifying language in our game.
“The matter has now been dealt with through the appropriate process and the club will make no further comment.''
Frederick played 14 games for the Power across 2021 and 2022 following his Category B selection in 2018.
Following his Port Adelaide delisting, he immediately joined Sturt for the 2023 season, then spent a season in the WAFL with Claremont before returning to the Double Blues ahead of last year.
He is the twin brother of Fremantle forward Michael.
