Victoria Police are investigating a sexual assault reported at the hotel on Wellington Parade in East Melbourne where Sydney Swans players were staying. Police said the incident occurred in the early hours of August 17.
Police said the exact circumstances of the incident had not yet been established and that the investigation was ongoing.
Club supports police investigation
The Sydney Swans confirmed that several players were linked to the alleged incident. Club chief executive Matthew Pavlich said they had launched their own internal review and were cooperating with the Australian Football League (AFL) and relevant authorities.
Pavlich said they were working to establish all the details of the incident, adding that the club was shocked and disappointed by what had happened. He said he understood the public interest and the speculation that could arise around the allegations, but did not provide further details because the police investigation was ongoing.
The club said it had informed the AFL and relevant authorities about the incident. Police have not released the players’ identities, and no charges have been announced so far.
Sydney Swans secure a top-two finish
The investigation is continuing as the AFL regular season enters its final week. The Sydney Swans secured a top-two finish on August 16 by defeating Essendon 112-76 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.