HAWTHORN AMATEURS SANCTIONED
04.07.2012
A Victorian Amateur Football Association Investigation Panel last evening found Hawthorn Amateur Football Club guilty of conduct unbecoming for falsifying information to the Tribunal.
As a result of the investigation held last night, the VAFA Investigation Panel have recommended to the Board that Hawthorn Amateur Football Club should be scheduled to play in Division Four for the 2013 season regardless of their finishing position in 2012.
The club will be fined $2000, with $1000 of this suspended until the end of the 2013 season.
President Pat Clancey and Secretary Paul Nunan will not be able to hold official positions at the club until the end of the 2013 season.
The investigation was initiated after evidence came to light of an unregistered player who played under a false name in the round 4 reserves match against Ivanhoe.
The deception continued when they misled the tribunal and the whole club is now suffering the consequences.
Hawthorn Amateur Football Club will continue to play for premiership points in 2012 with all results and records to stand.
The Board will consider the recommendation of the Investigation Panel and make an official ruling on the proposed demotion to Division Four of Hawthorn Amateur Football Club in 2013; and a decision on the number of teams affected by promotion and relegation at the 16 July board meeting.
VAFA CEO Michael Sholly said, “The Victorian Amateur Football Association will ensure the integrity of the competition is maintained at all times."
"The Association has a proud record in upholding its values and it is for this reason we are the number one community football league in the country, fostering a strong image and ethical football environment for all in the community.”
“Let this be a reminder for all clubs to ensure they continue to display the standards and integrity of the competition in keeping with the expectations of the VAFA.”
“We are excited about the second half of the season and forthcoming finals series and look forward to a successful conclusion to the year where our association will be showcased around Melbourne as being the standard bearer of honesty and excellence in the community.”
