Fremantle CEO Steve Rosich said today the club fully endorsed a statement by AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan, saying the league “condemns in the strongest terms” the actions of a man who assaulted a female patron at last night’s Preliminary Final at Domain Stadium.
“I spoke to Gillon earlier today about the behaviour of the person concerned, which was deplorable and totally unacceptable,” Rosich said.
“Whilst this incident occurred at Domain Stadium, it is not representative of our football club and not representative of our members and supporters.
“We have the largest percentage of female members in the league and all women, along with everyone who attends our games and all AFL games, deserves to do so in a safe and friendly environment.
“With respect to what action the club can take, we are awaiting a report from the stadium manager to assist in determining whether the person is a member.”
McLachlan said the AFL would urge police to take the strongest action.
“The AFL prides itself on our game being a safe place for all supporters, and in particular for women and families,” he said.
“'This kind of behaviour is utterly unacceptable and we re-state our commitment to standing up against violence at our games, and in particular, that women should never have to feel threatened or unsafe at AFL games.”
Perth Stadium Management later released a statement confirming that the male patron was not a member of the Fremantle Football Club.
Perth Stadium Management general manager Gavin Taylor also advised that the 24-year-old would be hit with a lifetime ban from the venue.
“99.9 per cent of the fans that attended last night’s match were well behaved and supported their team in the spirit of the game,” Taylor said.
“We are disappointed that the unacceptable behaviour of a small minority have tarnished last night’s game and the reputation of WA fans.
“With the exception of these instances the majority of fans passionately supported their teams in one of the most exciting and loud final’s atmospheres ever experienced at the stadium.
"I have spoken to the female victim to discuss this incident and in conjunction with the AFL have invited her and her family as a guest of the AFL to watch tonight’s match.
"I can confirm that on being alerted of the issue the security staff and police responded quickly and ejected the individual from the stadium.”
He was subsequently charged with assault.
