Sport
24 October, 2022
League hands down decision on MCDFNL grand final brawl between spectators, player
The Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League (MCDFNL) tribunal has released its findings regarding the brawl that occurred in the senior grand final between Harcourt and Carisbrook last month, with two spectators and a player...
The Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League (MCDFNL) tribunal has released its findings regarding the brawl that occurred in the senior grand final between Harcourt and Carisbrook last month, with two spectators and a player receiving hefty suspensions as a result.
Video footage had shown a brawl between multiple spectators in the crowd during the third quarter of the grand final, with Carisbrook player Harley Hunter then jumping the fence and participating in the brawl briefly, before returning to the field. Hunter would shortly thereafter receive a red card for his involvement in the melee, sitting out the remainder of the Redbacks’ eight-point loss to the Lions, while two spectators were removed from the venue by police in the aftermath.
It is understood that the brawl was provoked by comments from a spectator towards Hunter’s sick daughter, who currently suffers from Batten’s Disease, with Hunter jumping the fence after seeing family members targeted in the brawl.
The MCDFNL tribunal gave Hunter a 10-match ban for his involvement, six of which are to be served from the start of the 2023 season, while the other four matches have been suspended. Hunter has accepted the suspension handed down by the tribunal.
Meantime, two spectators have also been charged by the MCDFNL and AFL Victoria as a result of the brawl.
One spectator was banned from attending any AFL Victoria game for 12 months, while another spectator received a six-week ban for their involvement.
Ballarat Football Netball League administrator Shane Anwyl has confirmed that all suspensions have been set, while also releasing a statement on behalf of the league.
“The MCDFNL is happy that the issues that occurred at the 2022 grand final have now been dealt with and finalised by the Independent tribunal,” he said.
“It is incumbent on all community members attending the football and netball to ensure all members of the community can enjoy games in a safe environment.
“Such behaviours are not welcome at games and do not reflect the expectations of the football and netball communities.”