Sydney Swans Players Embroiled in Melbourne Hotel Sexual Assault Investigation

Sydney Swans chief executive Matthew Pavlich says he is “shocked and disappointed” about the circumstances which have led to several players becoming part of a Victoria police investigation into an alleged incident at a Melbourne hotel. Police were seen at the Pullman Hotel near the MCG on Monday morning where the Swans were staying after their victory over Essendon on Sunday. “Police are investigating a report of a sexual assault in East Melbourne on 17 August,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said, saying the alleged incident occurred in the hotel in the early hours of the morning. “The exact circumstances are yet to be established and the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.” Pavlich addressed the media briefly in Sydney on Monday afternoon to confirm “several players were involved in an alleged incident last night in Melbourne”. “We’re still piecing together exactly what’s transpired here and have our own set of internal enquiries ongoing, but it’s safe to say that we’re extremely shocked and disappointed that this has taken place and that the players have found themselves in this situation.” Pavlich said the club is working with the authorities on the matter. The Swans are currently second on the AFL ladder with one round of the home-and-away season remaining, and have been identified as one of the favourites for the flag. The club is also known for its so-called “Bloods Culture”, which promotes the importance of character as much as footballing skill. “We understand the level of interest in the matter and there’s going to be lots of speculation, but given it’s a police matter right now, that is all that we can say,” Pavlich said, declining to comment on whether anyone was arrested. “It’s a police matter ongoing, I’m not going to comment any further on it right now.” The AFL has been made aware of the incident and is waiting for police to make their enquiries before commenting. Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse is available from the following organisations. In Australia, support is available at Full Stop Australia (1800 385 578). In the UK, Rape Crisis offers support on 0808 500 2222. In the US, Rainn offers support on 800-656-4673. Other international helplines can be found at ibiblio.org/rcip/internl.html