Five Sydney Swans players suspended following a breach of club standards are reportedly set to return to the club this week.
Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon, and Riley Bice were suspended by the club after a night of partying at the Pullman East Melbourne following the team's Round 23 win. Victoria Police are investigating allegations of a sexual assault that occurred in a hotel room in the early hours of August 17.
It is understood that police have spoken with Heeney, Warner, Blakey, and Jordon, with Bice reportedly being treated as a witness. The players' suspension by the club was separate from the police investigation and resulted from a breach of club standards. No charges have been laid.
The players' suspension is set to conclude this week, but it remains unclear how they will be reintegrated into the Sydney Swans team. The Swans concluded their season on Friday with a loss in the preliminary final.
As the team heads into exit meetings, reports indicate the five players are expected to return to the club premises this week. However, Sydney Swans CEO Pavlich stated on Monday that no decision regarding their reintegration had been confirmed. "We haven't confirmed that as yet. We're still working through the process," Pavlich said. "They're five of our players, five contracted players, people we've tried to support through this process. Their wellbeing, along with everyone impacted, has been at the forefront of our mind. So we'll continue to work through that."
It is also uncertain whether the players will be part of the team next season, despite all being under contract. Blakey is reportedly seeking a trade to a Victorian rival, a rumor that football boss Leon Cameron has dismissed as speculation.
The police investigation's timeline is expected to overlap with the free agency and trade period, which runs from October 2 to October 14.
Heeney and Warner were not invited to the Brownlow Medal count but remain eligible for the award. Both are also considered frontrunners for the Sydney Swans' Bob Skilton Medal, which will be presented after the Grand Final.
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028