Sydney Swans deciding penalties for 'serious' standards breach as police investigate alleged assault at hotel

Sydney will soon announce punishments for the AFL players who breached club standards and behaviours at a Melbourne hotel.

As Victoria Police continue to investigate allegations of sexual assault, the Swans board met on Tuesday night.

Sydney will run the penalties past the AFL first. Given the seriousness of the crisis and the strongly-worded club media release, suspensions appear inevitable.

“We respect there is an ongoing investigation by Victoria Police and any actions we take are independent of this,” the Swans said.

“The club believes the players are in serious breach of expected club behaviour and standards, and it is appropriate to take firm action and highlight that any sanction we impose relates solely to those breaches.

“The club also acknowledges that these serious allegations impact others and their wellbeing must be paramount.”

This masthead does not suggest that the Swans players who have spoken to police about the incident are under investigation, suspected or guilty of any wrongdoing. No players have been arrested or charged.

Earlier on Tuesday night, AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon released a statement calling for more respect around the sexual assault allegations.

The police investigation and the coming club penalties relate to events that occurred early on Monday morning at East Melbourne’s Pullman Hotel.

Dillon said the allegations and the conduct of the Swans players were “deeply concerning”.

“While the matter remains under police investigation, it raises broader issues for our game and our responsibilities as a sport,” Dillon said.“The woman who made the report to police is entitled to privacy and care, and that should be respected.”

Dillon took aim at widespread commentary about what the allegations would mean for the Swans, who are guaranteed second spot and two home finals.

“Sexual assault allegations are serious, regardless of who is involved, what time of year it is, or what they may mean for a season,” Dillon said.

“Our first question should not be what this means for a football club. It should be whether our actions match the standards we stand for and the community expects of us.