Aussie Diamonds netball star Sarah Klau has avoided conviction after pleading guilty to a charge of common assault. Klau, 31, admitted to kicking a security guard in the back outside a Sydney venue earlier this year after being denied entry.
Klau appeared in Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday, where the magistrate ruled against recording a conviction. The magistrate described the incident as a "terrible setback" and noted that "alcohol and violence tend to be a great leveller, it doesn't matter who you are."
The court heard that the security guard had denied Klau entry to the venue after deeming her too intoxicated. Following the denial, Klau allegedly lashed out and kicked the guard before entering another nearby establishment, where staff were alerted to the incident.
Netball NSW, the club Klau plays for, confirmed her court appearance and stated that they "take the behavioural standards of its athletes and staff seriously." The club added that Klau has been an "exemplary role model" for 10 years and that they will continue to offer her support.
Netball Australia also commented on the matter, confirming they had been informed of the court proceedings. A spokesperson for Netball Australia said, "This is a difficult moment for Sarah and she has expressed significant remorse and regret for the incident. We are also supporting Sarah with wellbeing services." The organization stated that they will complete their own investigation into the matter in line with their integrity framework now that the court process has concluded.
It remains unclear if officials were aware of the allegations before Klau traveled to Glasgow last month to compete in the Commonwealth Games.
