Fremantle Dockers forward Michael Frederick has spoken on his recent club-imposed suspension for drinking on a six-day break.
Frederick was suspended by the club's leadership group after consuming alcohol on the night of their 14-point win over Brisbane in Round 12, a game he starred in, kicking three goals while gathering 18 disposals.
The Dockers were on a six-day break heading into their Round 13 game against Hawthorn the following Saturday, with Fremantle and Frederick agreeing to the one-match suspension.
The 22-year-old told SEN he understood why the club took action.
"I know what the culture we’re trying to build is and it's coming really well and I clearly stepped out of line and knew what I did wrong, so I copped feedback from the leadership group and coaches," Frederick said.
"I knew I let the team down and the club down in terms of what we’re trying to build and the culture and standards on and off the field."
Frederick sat down with the leadership group, consisting of captain Nat Fyfe, Alex Pearce, David Mundy, Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong.
The South Australian says it was intimidating to front the leaders but understands the cultural standards being set.
"(It was) pretty daunting walking in there and sitting in there with the leadership group because you sort of know what’s coming and I guess you sort of think to yourself what are they going to punish you with," he said.
"But I had really good chats with the whole leadership group afterwards and even the coaching staff. It was more to make a statement with what we stand for now and we’re not going to brush those things aside, and I just had to be the first one to cop it.
"I’ve been fine afterwards, like I said they all got around me afterwards and no dramas, it’s all good."
The exciting speedster has enjoyed a good season in a contending Fremantle side, averaging 11.2 disposals and 1.2 goals a game.
