Former Adelaide Crows captain Rory Sloane has criticized “underhanded tactics” employed by certain AFL clubs during trade negotiations and free agency. This statement follows a controversial report by journalist Caroline Wilson, which claimed that St Kilda’s Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera was reluctant to play for the Crows due to Taylor Walker’s suspension for past racist remarks. Both the player and his manager refuted Wilson’s claims, with Wanganeen-Milera reaching out to Walker to clarify that the allegations were unfounded.
Wanganeen-Milera, who is out of contract at the end of the season, is currently considering offers from both Adelaide clubs—the Crows and Port Adelaide. Wilson, however, maintains that her reporting is accurate and valid.
While Sloane admits he is unsure of the specifics regarding Wanganeen-Milera’s situation, he believes that the incident is part of a broader pattern where clubs disseminate false information to tarnish the image of rival clubs, thereby influencing player decisions. He shared that several players have approached Adelaide, expressing concerns about negative comments made about the club by other clubs.
In Sloane’s view, such tactics are not only untoward but damaging to the fabric of the sport, stating that in the past, two players declined to join the Crows due to these rumours and the perception of poor club governance. He emphasised that while these tactics might have had some success historically, they should not be part of today’s game.
Former Essendon coach James Hird added his perspective, stating that while he was not privy to any significant instances of clubs spreading misinformation to influence player decisions, he did recall a light-hearted exchange during Chris Judd’s recruitment, where Essendon jokingly downplayed Carlton’s appeal.
As for Wanganeen-Milera, he faces a critical decision ahead, with the potential for a lucrative contract exceeding $1 million annually, whether he selects the Saints or opts to return to South Australia to join the Crows or the Power.