EAGLES BOMBSHELL: Star recruit banned for homophobic slur
The incident happened during last week's Eagles loss to GWS, with the AFL's Integrity Unit launching an investigation after the slur was reported by the club on Friday morning.
The league handed down its ruling on Sunday morning, just hours before West Coast's clash with Port Adelaide. Graham, who is with the team in Adelaide, will be barred from playing at any level across the next four weeks.
'Everyone understands the word he used is both hurtful and totally unacceptable in any setting, ever,' the AFL's Head of Integrity and Security Tony Keane said.
'The AFL is very clear that homophobia has no place in our game, nor in the community. We have come a long way as a code, but this incident demonstrates there is so much more to be done, and we will continue to work together to improve our game as a safe and inclusive environment for all.
'The AFL will continue to consider the specific circumstances in each incident in determining appropriate responses. Graham's sanction would have been higher if he hadn't self-reported and understood his comment was totally inappropriate.'
The slur, which was directed towards a GWS opponent, was self-reported by Graham to the Eagles.
The 146-gamer apologised to the player and also rang AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon to apologise.
Graham will also undertake Pride in Sport education as part of his sanction.
More to come
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