Callum Mills, captain of the Sydney Swans, is looking at a long suspension after a hit to the head. This follows on from his awful head-high bump in his first game of the year against Melbourne. The controversial incident early in the match caused a firestorm of criticism. That would lead to tragic consequences, potentially ending Mills’s life as he’s already endured a full season of adversity this year.
Mills returned to the field after recovering from a right plantar fascia rupture he suffered in mid-February. Yet, his performance failed to live up to the hype. He tallied just 12 disposals and three clangers by three-quarter time, having a minimal impact on the score line. The Swans put in a poor performance across the board and were soundly beaten by an in-form Melbourne side to the tune of 53 points.
Mills had his eighth appearance as the Swans’ sole captain in this match. All of that is to say, he assumed this role at a particularly tumultuous time within the team. The Swans came into this match missing premier forward Joel Amartey and Justin McInerney, both out due to suspension. The impact of the team’s challenges intensified in their absence. They didn’t exert much pressure themselves and were disjointed on the offensive end from the opening moments.
The bump on controversial bump on Charlie Spargo has left Mills now under fire. As former AFL player Nick Riewoldt said, “Mills could be in real strife there,” further emphasizing the severity of the issue. Riewoldt added, “I’d say that’s probably more dangerous action than the Alex Pearce action and he’s staring down three weeks.”
Mills’ actions have fueled a continuing debate about player safety and proper technique with the ongoing introduction of tackling into the AFL. Dean Cox, a notable figure in the sport, emphasized the importance of players being conscious of their actions on the field. He remarked, “The players need to be aware of what they can and can’t do, and then the technique, they have to train that.” Cox suggested that players should focus on tackling rather than bumping: “Whether it’s arms out, not shoulder in. Tap and squeeze, squeeze and tap, that’s the first thing that we always teach, instead of bump.”
…until this weekend’s game, as the Swans led the league in suspensions. This is a dangerous trend for the team. They are still three weeks ahead on their opponents Hawthorn at this stage. This ongoing incident has been a source of anxiety regarding disciplinary measures and player behavior on the team.
With Mills facing disciplinary action, his future as captain seems in doubt. Now even his ability to lead a team that can’t stop facing fresh disasters is under fire. This development would likely be a big blow for Mills and the Sydney Swans. They are in for a tough season coming up.
