Secret documents detailing the negotiations between the Essendon Bombers and the AFL during this year’s supplement scandal findings have been revealed.
News Limited published exclusive material from documents uncovered during the negotiations between the league and Essendon leadership, proposing deals intended to convince coach James Hird to accept his role in the use of unethical supplements during the 2012 season.
In the news.com.au report, Australian Sports Commission chairman John Wylie attempted to reach an agreement with Essendon chairman Paul Little during a public standoff between the club and the AFL.
“Hird as senior coach takes responsibility for the inadequate governance and oversight within the club’s football department that gave rise to this situation,” Wylie offered.
“It is however acknowledged …. to the best of the AFL’s knowledge and belief, Hird did not promote or encourage an unethical environment within the club; Hird has not brought the game into disrepute.
“In the totality of the circumstances, the AFL will impose, and Hird will accept, a 12-month suspension from all coaching duties.”
James Hird: I Didn’t Break The Rules
Wylie’s was used to assist negotiations between the two parties to resolve the matter as quickly as possible.
Also discussed according to news.com.au, Hird receiving a 12-month, fully paid ban, “an outstanding career development opportunity” should he drop legal charges against the league, a guarantee his name would remain in the AFL Hall of Fame and that he would still be “acknowledged by the AFL as a legend of the game”.
James Hird accepted a 12-month ban days later while the Bombers were fined $2 million and thrown out of the AFL finals.
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