Sydney Swans listed player Riak Andrew has been hit with a five-match ban for using a homophobic slur in a VFL match against North Melbourne.
An investigation by the AFL integrity unit found Andrew guilty of breaching the code of conduct after his actions were reported to the umpire by a rival player on Saturday.
Sydney confirmed following the match that Andrew "understands the language he used is unacceptable" and had taken "full responsibility" for the incident.
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"I am deeply sorry for the word that I used in Saturday's game and any hurt that it has caused," Andrew said.
"While I did not understand the full impact of the words I used at the time, I certainly do now, and have deep regret for my actions.
"This has impacted not only our club but the broader community, and for that I am truly sorry. I am committed to using this as an opportunity to learn and get better."
Andrew will be ineligible to represent the Swans over the next five weeks in both the AFL and VFL. He will also have to undertake a Pride in Sport education program.
It comes just two weeks after the AFL banned West Coast's Jack Graham for four matches after he used a homophobic slur against GWS.
"It is disappointing to be dealing with another incident," AFL general counsel Stephen Meade said in a statement about Andrew's ban.
"While we will always examine the individual circumstances, the clear message is that this language is not acceptable in any workplace and that includes on the field of play."
The league confirmed it will continue to "build on anti-vilification training" for all AFL and AFLW players and officials in wake of recent incidents.
Andrew was recruited to the Swans on night two of the 2024 draft after playing for Dandenong Stingrays. He is the brother of Suns star Mac Andrew.
Sydney Swans chief executive Tom Harley described the behaviour as disappointing.
"This behaviour does not reflect the values of our club, and we take this matter very seriously," he said after the match on Saturday.
"While it is disappointing, we recognise that Riak is at the beginning of his career and we will use this as an opportunity to provide support and education, to ensure Riak understands the impact of his words.
"In a fortnight we will be playing in the Pride Game, a match that is incredibly important to our club. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment."
