After being charged by umpires for vilifying Melbourne Demons forward Ricky Petterd, West Coast Eagles defender Patrick McGinnity has received a one-week suspension.
The charge against McGinnity stemmed from comments he made regarding Petterd’s mother as the teams exited the Etihad Stadium at half-time on Sunday, in violation of an AFL code of conduct related to respect for women.
As a result, McGinnity has been suspended for one match, will be required to undergo counselling pertaining to the AFL’s respect and responsibility policies, and will incur a fine of $2500.
“I deeply regret the words I used in a verbal altercation on Sunday,” stated McGinnity.
“The heat of the moment is no excuse for overstepping the mark, and I sincerely apologise to the Melbourne player at whom my comments were directed.”
While Melbourne refrained from commenting under AFL regulations, Petterd’s father, Wayne Petterd, remarked that McGinnity had overstepped boundaries with his hurtful remarks about his son’s mother.
“I’ve played a lot of footy, but it seems to have escalated to a point where people are saying things that go beyond acceptable,” Mr. Petterd expressed.
“I just believe this individual needs to mature. When you disrespect a player’s family, that’s crossing the line.
“Ricky simply said he was an idiot and that he hadn’t thought through his words. It did upset him, especially since this guy repeated his comments twice; this wasn’t merely in the heat of the moment.
“However, I suppose you just have to take it lightly. I would advise him to think more critically.”
Petterd acknowledged that the sledging caught him off guard but emphasized that he was resolved not to let it impact his performance.
On Monday night, McGinnity reached out to Petterd via phone to apologize.
It is reported that one of the controlling umpires overheard McGinnity’s remarks and decided to take action.
McGinnity’s comments were also heard by his Eagles teammate Will Schofield, who has been interviewed regarding the incident.
Buford Balony says: No wonder it’s called GAYFL…bunch of girls.
