St Kilda Football Club acknowledges the outcome of the AFL Appeals Board hearing, which tonight upheld the Tribunal’s finding but reduced the sanction imposed on Lance Collard to a four-week suspension (two suspended).

The AFL Disciplinary Tribunal last week imposed a nine-week suspension on Lance (two suspended) following a finding of guilt under AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming).

While the club is disappointed the charge was upheld, it welcomes the reduction in sanction and thanks the Appeals Board for their time and consideration on the matter.

The club’s legal team, led by Michael Borsky KC, successfully argued that the original penalty was manifestly excessive.

The club remains focused on supporting Lance throughout what has been a challenging period and asks for his privacy as he makes his return to play.

Despite the reduction in sanction, St Kilda remains disappointed with how the matter was assessed and believes greater consistency and clarity in the AFL’s Tribunal process is important moving forward.

We also acknowledge the impact this prolonged and public matter has had on members of the LGBTQIA+ and First Nations communities.