NORTH SUNSHINE EAGLES EXPELLED AS PART
OF FFV'S ZERO TOLERANCE APPROACH
Football Federation Victoria’s (FFV) Independent Tribunal on Friday 26 July expelled
North Sunshine Eagles until 31 December 2013 following a violent incident between
it and Sporting Whittlesea on 29 June 2013.
All North Sunshine Eagles teams’ points have been deducted effective immediately.
The club has been ordered to pay a fine of fifteen thousand dollars and all members
have been ordered to undertake FFV’s Respect and Responsibility course prior to
any possible consideration of re-admission.
North Sunshine Eagles may apply to return as a new club from the bottom of the
leagues in 2014. The club has three business days to appeal the decision.
Sporting Whittlesea has not been penalised, as none of its charges were proven.
FFV confirms Victoria Police is also continuing its investigation.
FFV takes a zero tolerance approach to anyone acting in an anti-social manner at
football matches.
FFV is committed to ensuring community football matches uphold community
standards and provide a safe and family friendly environment which allows players,
officials and spectators to enjoy the game.
FFV CEO Mitchell Murphy said FFV would not tolerate violence and would continue
to send the same message to those that are unable to control their temper - if you
are a thug you are not welcome at any football matches.
“Football fans have a right to watch a game free of antagonistic and violent
behaviour,” Murphy said.“Unfortunately, violence is still a society issue and football is not the only code
having to deal with poor behaviour. Anyone found to be violent and putting the game
in disrepute will face the consequences. If you choose to misbehave you will be
investigated and face the judgement from the Independent Tribunal.
“Whilst it is pleasing to see incidents of this nature decreasing 38 per cent in the past
five years due to FFV’s continued commitment to the Zero Tolerance policy, one
incident is still too many.
“FFV is committed to investigating any allegations of misconduct. On the basis that
allegations are proven, penalties may include but not be limited to suspensions,
fines, point deductions, relegations and in extreme cases club expulsions and
individual life bans.”