West Coast midfielder Jack Graham slapped with four-match ban for ‘highly offensive homophobic slur'
In a statement, the AFL said Graham was found guilty of conduct unbecoming in an incident which occurred during the second quarter of the Eagles' Round 17 loss to the Giants.
'The incident was self-reported by Graham to the West Coast Eagles,' the statement reads.
'The club reported it to the AFL on Friday morning with the AFL integrity unit undertaking an immediate investigation.
'Graham used a highly offensive homophobic slur against a GWS Giants opponent, which demeans and denigrates persons regardless of their sexuality.
'Graham has received a four-match sanction, with the AFL taking into account Graham's self-reporting of the incident, along with his private apology and contrition. Graham also rang the AFL CEO directly to apologise.
'He will not be eligible to play for the West Coast Eagles or any level of football for the next four weeks. As a part of the sanction Graham will also undertake pride in sport education.'
The AFL's head of integrity and security Tony Keane said the ban sends a clear message.
'Everyone understands the word he used is both hurtful and totally unacceptable in any setting, ever,' he 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.'
All AFL and AFLW players receive yearly education around vilification.
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