The AFL has fined Carlton A$75,000 for failing to remove Elijah Hollands from the field while he was experiencing a mental health episode during round six against Collingwood. Hollands was admitted to hospital for treatment several days after the match at the MCG.
The AFL found that Carlton should have removed Hollands from the game earlier based on visual cues, performance data and the player's previously disclosed mental health challenges, and that the club's failure to do so brought the game into disrepute.
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said the 'substantial sanction' was directed at the club collectively rather than any individuals. 'What transpired during the game was something we haven't seen before and while Elijah did undergo checks, he should not have been left on the field for that period of time,' he said, adding that mental health presentations can be variable and complex.
In a statement, Carlton acknowledged the AFL's finding that Hollands should have been removed sooner than the 20-minute mark of the final quarter, but did not admit fault. The club said it supports its people, who operate with genuine care for all players and staff. Chief executive Graham Wright said: 'We accept the outcome in the interest of enabling all parties to move forward, while continuing to ensure the health and wellbeing of our people remains a priority.' The club cited the ongoing WorkSafe investigation and Hollands' privacy as reasons for not providing further details.
As a result of the inquiry, the AFL will require all clubs to employ a full-time psychologist, establish a new wellbeing governance committee, introduce new standards and guidelines, expand mental health literacy and review football soft cap policies. 'There are lessons in this for all of us,' said Laura Kane, the AFL's head of health and football. 'Our duty of care must continue to evolve, and that must include mental health and wellbeing.'
The fine will be paid to youth mental health service provider Headspace.
