In a rare decision, local footballer Brandon Rigney was handed a lifetime ban. This extreme measure followed hot on the heels of him dishing out an appalling shirt front style hit on an opponent in a game against Fitzroy. It occurred late in the fourth quarter of the game and was captured on video. This provoked a surprisingly swift retaliation almost immediately from league bureaucrats and ardent fans alike.
Rigney definitely intended to make a big impression. This designation makes it clear how bad things are. The collision knocked out his opponent cold and ignited national outrage. It did shine a great light on the questions regarding player safety and sportsmanship in the league. Immediately after receiving the hit, Rigney took a theatrical faceplant to the ground, playing up the tackle as if he’d been stunned. His humanitarian act did very little to reduce the gravity of his offense.
Fitzroy filed an official complaint about what happened during the match, leading the league to launch an investigation. John Kernahan, an Indiana league representative, voiced his dismay. He made it clear that this type of behavior is not something that the players should be known for.
“The Adelaide Footy League is all of disappointed, frustrated and angry,” – John Kernahan
Kernahan further stated that incidents like Rigney’s hit belong to a “bygone era” and reaffirmed the league’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all players. He noted that the league has forced its way into 12,000 players in 69 clubs. It shows that it is truly committed to upholding high standards of behavior.
“As a benchmark, the league is enjoying its best year for a decade,” – John Kernahan
The league’s decision to implement a lifetime ban on Rigney shows how serious and strict the league’s zero-tolerance policy about violent conduct. Kernahan said he was glad that this incident isn’t representative of the values their clubs teach. They find solace in this distinction.
“We believe we should be measured by how we respond to the test and we think the penalty reflects the expectations of our clubs,” – John Kernahan
