A high-profile court case has begun in Melbourne, centring on allegations of fraudulent sports memorabilia linked to a historic Australian Rules Football premiership win. Former AFL player agent Ricky Nixon, 62, is representing himself as he fights four charges of fraud.
The Alleged Memorabilia Scam
The charges relate to footballs Nixon allegedly sold as being signed by the entire Melbourne Demons premiership team following their 2021 grand final victory. The balls were advertised on Facebook for $595 each, including $20 postage, and came with certificates of authenticity. The hearing at the Melbourne Magistrates' Court started on Tuesday, with several premiership players called as witnesses.
Three alleged victims told the court they purchased the footballs directly from Nixon after seeing his Facebook advertisements. One, long-time fan Warwick Weir, said Nixon personally delivered a ball to him on October 3. After Nixon left, Weir noticed captain Max Gawn had signed the ball with the number 13, not his playing number 11.
"I thought Gawn might have had a 'brain fart' after a big win," Mr Weir testified. When he alerted Nixon, the agent claimed he had "just spoken with Max," who had apologised and said he didn't realise that specific ball would enter circulation. A replacement ball was delivered a week later.
Players Deny Signatures as Victims Seek Refunds
Another victim, Tim Holt, bought a ball as a wedding gift. After seeing media reports questioning the signatures' authenticity, he requested a refund. Nixon reportedly replied: "Players and club have confirmed they have signed the ball ... If you want to believe media bullshit go ahead."
The court was shown three yellow Sherrin footballs allegedly sold fraudulently. Former Melbourne player Charlie Spargo, now with North Melbourne, examined them and stated unequivocally the signatures were not his. "I use a cursive running writing style, it's in print ... it's not my handwriting, I didn't write it," Spargo told the court.
Frustration for Fans and the Football Club
Outside court, Spargo expressed his disappointment for the supporters who had paid for the merchandise. "It's just frustrating for the fans and the football club," he said. The case highlights the risks in the lucrative sports memorabilia market, where authenticity is paramount.
Key figures including Demons captain Max Gawn, along with teammates Jake Lever and Tom McDonald, are expected to give evidence as the hearing continues. Ricky Nixon has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
