St Kilda Football Club has announced its intention to challenge the nine-week suspension imposed on Lance Collard, who was found guilty of using a homophobic slur during a recent VFL match.

Despite the ruling, Collard continues to assert his innocence. His suspension includes a nine-game ban, with two of those weeks suspended. The appeal is anticipated to take place next week.

Collard received the nine-match suspension after being accused of making an offensive remark during a VFL game, a claim he has denied. This incident marks the second occasion within three seasons that Collard has been penalized for similar behavior, having previously received a six-game suspension in 2024 for admitting to using the same slur during a match.

The club expressed its unwavering support for Collard, stating, “As a club, we will continue to stand by Lance, who maintains his position of innocence. This process has had a significant impact on Lance, and we are dedicated to ensuring he receives the support he needs while defending his integrity through the appropriate channels.” They also acknowledged the broader implications of this matter, particularly concerning members of the LGBTQIA+ and First Nations communities.

The upcoming appeal hearing is set for next week, following comments from St Kilda’s head coach, Ross Lyon, who criticized the AFL’s tribunal process as a “firestorm.” He expressed concern for the well-being of players involved, stating, “All of us from club-land are worried about our individual players and the stress they experience, along with the potential damage to their well-being—whether it’s (Zak) Butters or Collard or others caught in this situation. It’s very challenging, and there’s no doubt that there will be casualties and individuals who suffer as a result. That weighs heavily on us.”

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