The AFL tribunal has yet to reach a conclusion regarding the case of Lance Collard, who stands accused of using a homophobic slur during a match against Frankston. After a lengthy 3.5-hour hearing, the tribunal was unable to deliver a decision by the 5pm (AEST) deadline, which included obligations to present written reasons for their ruling. Tribunal chairman Jeff Gleeson stated that they are progressing in their discussions and plan to resume deliberations the following day, with an expectation to issue a brief written explanation.
Collard, who plays for the Saints, has been accused of directing the term ‘f—-t’ at VFL opponent Darby Hipwell. If found guilty, Collard could face a 10-week suspension, which would mark one of the longest penalties imposed on an AFL-listed player in over a century. Collard contends that he actually used the word ‘maggot’ and has sworn to this claim through a statutory declaration.
During the hearing, Collard recounted the incident, asserting he called Hipwell “maggot” and not the slur in question. He acknowledged past mistakes, including a previous six-match suspension for similar language during a 2024 game, after which he undertook Pride in Sport training.
The tribunal also heard testimony from Hipwell, who maintained confidence that Collard uttered the offensive term. He reported the incident to the umpire immediately after the game. While Collard’s teammate Bailey Lambert corroborated Hipwell’s claims, the umpire, Sam Morgan, stated he did not hear any homophobic language during the match.
Testimonies from various sources indicated conflicting accounts of the interactions on the field, with Hipwell asserting he never heard Collard use ‘maggot’. In support of Collard, Pride Cup CEO Hayley Conway testified to his personal development and engagement in the aftermath of his previous actions.
In summary, the tribunal has yet to reach a definitive judgment in Collard’s case, with deliberations set to continue. The outcome could have significant implications not only for Collard but for ongoing discussions surrounding racism and homophobia in sports.