AFF responds...

In an alternate universe -

The following is a transcript from the recent press conference with Australian Football Federation (AFF) chairman Stephen Lowry and Davis Gallot:

Good afternoon,

I’d ask that you bear with me while I read this prepared statement. It’s fairly lengthy given it’s taken us two weeks longer to prepare than it should have. Thank you.

The recent release of the private details of football fans by a major newspaper deeply troubles us as it should trouble the entire football community.

Whilst we stand by the bans we have issued to these fans based on the evidence we have gathered, this does not afford anyone the right to subject them to the cruel and excessive punishment a media organisation has deemed it fit to dole out. We find this article offensive in the highest order. Many of these people stand accused of no federal or state crimes, many of them are minors. The AFF has seen fit to exclude them from attending matches for a set period but this does not mean we or anyone should view them as “criminals”, “suburban terrorists” or “grubs”. Such a suggestion is not based in fact nor should it be allowed to stand uncontested.

Given the serious breach of privacy and the serious nature of the allegations leveled by this newspaper we immediately investigated thoroughly but have been unable to ascertain with certainty the source of the leak. We accept this highlights problems with our internal systems and controls and we apologise unreservedly for this. These systems will be improved and strengthened and a full review undertaken.

The AFF would like to further highlight that although we have issued a number of bans on our fans, this in fact shows the strength of our commitment to removing anti-social behaviour from our venues. The issue of such behaviour is not a uniquely football problem. This element exists broadly across society and we have taken and will continue to take strong action against any anti-social behaviour. We believe the AFF is being unfairly targeted for being an organisation that takes action. Many sporting venues across our great nation experience this same behaviour and take little in the way of action by comparison. We do not operate a ‘three strikes’ policy or issue warnings like other codes - we take action and we are proud of the fact we do.

However it is this hard line stance that we now also recognise is a cause for concern amongst fans. The perceived lack of transparency and justice was never our intent. We accept we must improve this situation. There are a number of legal issues at play but I will personally commit to opening up the process to provide as much transparency as we can and a fair and independent review and appeal process. No organisation should act above the law and we will bring our process in line with what Australian expect from a democratic system.

I’d further like to acknowledge modern football has brought new pressures to the game, however we need to not lose sight of what makes our game great. There are two elements which were here long before the modern game, and they will continue well into the future.

The players will continue to flourish and grow, and the spectacle will always have them at the centre, but without the fans the sport would not exist either. Fans are the driving force behind the game, whether it be filling a huge stadium or lining the sideline at the local pitch the fans have been here long before professional sport and will remain here after it. The commercial interests in our league are important as they are what allows us to continue to grow and expand but we must not lose sight of our fans. They remain an important stakeholder.

Our league is very lucky to have some of the greatest fans in the country. They bring a passion, a flair and an atmosphere unlike any other in this nation. We thank them for the important part they play in our game. We ask that you continue to support us as we attempt to make this the largest sport in the country. We both have the same goal of seeing football flourish so let's work together to see that happen.