Jack Graham banned for four matches over homophobic slur

West Coast’s Jack Graham has been banned for four matches after using a “highly offensive homophobic slur” against GWS opponent in round 17.

The premiership Tiger self-reported the incident, which occurred during the second quarter, to the Eagles, who took it to the AFL on Friday morning. The league’s integrity unit then investigated, and found Graham breached AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming).

Jack Graham (left) has been banned for four matches.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images

The league released a statement on Sunday morning saying the slur “demeans and denigrates persons regardless of their sexuality”.

“Everyone understands the word he used is both hurtful and totally unacceptable in any setting, ever,” the AFL’s head of integrity and security, Tony Keane, said.

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“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.”

The league said Graham had made a “private apology” and shown contrition as well as calling AFL CEO Andrew Dillon personally to apologise,

Graham cannot play at any level over the next four weeks and must also complete Pride in Sport education.

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