AFL investigated Hawk for drug prank

Hawthorn premiership player Taylor Duryea was investigated and target tested after an internet prank went wrong.

Hawthorn have revealed premiership defender Taylor Duryea came under AFL investigation and was target tested for drugs after an internet prank went badly wrong.

A photo was posted on social media, showing Duryea with what appeared to be an illicit drug.

The Hawks said the AFL integrity unit ended the investigation last November.

"(It) was found to be an ill-advised practical joke," the club said in a statement.

Hawthorn revealed the investigation on the same day that Gold Coast player Harley Bennell was stood down.

Photos have emerged of Bennell allegedly taking an illicit substance two years ago.

Hawthorn said they immediately notified the AFL when they became aware of Duryea's photo.

They added he submitted to drug tests, including hair samples, and they were clear.

Duryea also had counselling after the incident.

"Drug use is not a joke and the prank was thoughtless and incredibly disappointing," said Hawks chief executive Stuart Fox.

"Hawthorn takes this matter very seriously and Taylor was sanctioned under the personal conduct policy.

"Taylor was extremely apologetic for his actions and used this as an opportunity to educate his teammates on the seriousness of the issue and the pitfalls of social media.

"While the matter has been concluded, the club acknowledges that illicit drug use is a serious community-wide issue and will continue to be vigilant and proactive in educating its players about the significant risks involved."


Share

2 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Download our apps
SBS News
SBS Audio
SBS On Demand

Listen to our podcasts
An overview of the day's top stories from SBS News
Interviews and feature reports from SBS News
Your daily ten minute finance and business news wrap with SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves.
A daily five minute news wrap for English learners and people with disability
Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS
SBS World News

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service
Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world