In brief
The Sydney Swans have suspended five of their star players for the rest of the AFL season as police investigate an alleged sexual assault at the Pullman Hotel. The players – Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice – were allegedly involved in a late‑night drinking spree and on‑premise disputes. No arrests or charges have been made yet, but the club cited breaches of its conduct code for the stand‑down. The incident has shocked the club and its fans, as Swans sit second on the ladder heading into finals. The AFL has said it will review further steps as the police inquiry continues.
Suspensions in the AFL: Five members of the Sydney Swans have been banned for the rest of the season as part of a police investigation into an alleged sexual assault at the Pullman Hotel in Melbourne.
Team involved: Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice were all removed from play following the incident, which reportedly involved late‑night drinking and the club’s strict conduct codes were breached.
No charges yet: None of the players have been formally charged or arrested, but the club has taken disciplinary action independently while Victoria Police conduct their inquiry.
Club reaction: Chairman Andrew Pridham apologised to fans, acknowledging the “poor choices” of the players and the impact on the women involved, and Chief executive Matthew Pavlich expressed embarrassment and concern for all parties.
Impact on season: The Swans currently sit second on the AFL ladder and remain in the finals spotlight, but the season‑long bans shake their lineup before the qualifiers.
