Sydney defender Riak Andrew is facing a lengthy suspension after being cited for using a homophobic slur while representing the AFL club’s reserves team.
First-year player Andrew, the younger brother of Gold Coast star Mac Andrew, used the slur during the Swans’ VFL clash with North Melbourne on Saturday.
The AFL Integrity Unit is investigating the matter.
In a statement, Sydney said a remorseful Andrew understands the language he used is unacceptable and takes full responsibility for his actions.
Swans chief executive Tom Harley said the club are extremely disappointed in the 20-year-old’s actions.
“This behaviour does not reflect the values of our club, and we take this matter very seriously,” Harley said.
“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.”
Andrew’s slur comes as Sydney prepare to hold their annual celebration of LGBTIQA+ communities, when they host Essendon at the SCG on 2 August.
“In a fortnight we will be playing in the Pride Game, a match that is incredibly important to our club,” Harley said.
“We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.”
Andrew was taken with pick No 55 in last year’s draft and is yet to make his AFL debut.
Earlier this month, West Coast midfielder Jack Graham was found guilty of conduct unbecoming and suspended for four matches for using a homophobic slur during his side’s loss to GWS Giants.
Another three AFL players were suspended for using homophobic slurs last season.
Gold Coast defender Wil Powell (five matches) and Port Adelaide forward Jeremy Finlayson (three) served bans over incidents in AFL matches.
St Kilda’s Lance Collard served a six-match penalty for “unprompted and highly offensive” slurs towards two Williamstown players in a VFL game.