Swans fans support women's team
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The gist
Sydney Swans fans turned out to support the AFLW team at a historic double-header amid a scandal involving five male players. The women's team received a groundswell of support.
Background
The Sydney Swans faced a scandal after five male players were sanctioned for alleged sexual assault and drug taking in a Melbourne hotel. This prompted fans, especially women, to express disappointment and reconsider their support. However, ahead of a historic double-header at the SCG, many fans chose to show up and back the women's team, which had done nothing wrong.
How it unfolded
- Aug 19, 2026Former Swans coach John Longmire expresses shock and anger at the banned players, and Governor-General Sam Mostyn says she is 'devastated for the women' affected.
- Aug 21, 2026Guardian Australia reports on female fans' sense of betrayal and fatigue, with some reconsidering memberships.
- Aug 22, 2026AFLW captain Lucy McEvoy and coach Colin O'Riordan say the women's program supports the sanctions, and McEvoy notes a 'groundswell of support' for the women's team.
- Aug 23, 2026Fans turn out in large numbers for the historic double-header at the SCG, with many expressing support for the AFLW team amid the scandal.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Fans like Teri and David Lipman say they are there to support the AFLW team, emphasizing that 'five guys doesn't define a club'.
- Caution
- Some long-term fans like Drew Menard and his daughters are reconsidering their memberships due to a sense of betrayal.
- Official
- AFLW captain Lucy McEvoy and coach Colin O'Riordan support the sanctions and call for fans to 'put rivalries aside' and support women's football.
Still unverified
The specific allegations against the five players are still under investigation by Victoria Police; the players have apologized but not been formally interviewed.