North Melbourne Football Club has announced that Tarryn Thomas will not be available to play at any level after the club deemed he had failed to make sufficient progress in his respectful behaviour program. This decision comes after further allegations emerged of Thomas’ inappropriate behaviour towards women. The club and the AFL Integrity Unit are currently investigating the latest allegations.
Todd Viney, North Football Boss, stated that the latest allegations were “a serious concern” for the club. He explained that the decision to suspend Thomas from play was based on the education program put in place over the last eight weeks. While there was some improvement in understanding and accountability, Thomas was still not at the level required. Viney went on to state that the club was aware of the new allegations and that it was a serious concern. However, out of respect for the victim, the club could not disclose the details.
Jy Simpkin and Tarryn Thomas of the Kangaroos are flanked by reporters as they arrive at the football club during a North Melbourne Kangaroos AFL media opportunity at Arden Street Ground on February 27, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)
Thomas had previously stepped away from the club on February 2 after allegations of threats of violence against women. In January, he was charged with a single count of threatening to distribute an intimate image. Although Thomas returned to training recently, he faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on two charges of violating a court order. North Melbourne confirmed earlier this month that those charges had since been withdrawn.
North Melbourne CEO Jennifer Watt said the club would set a new plan in which Thomas needed to engage to improve “issues of accountability, remorse, and behaviour change.” The club is committed to supporting Thomas, but it is clear he must show further progress before he can return to play matches for North Melbourne.
This decision shows the club’s strong stance towards respectful behaviour towards women, and hopefully, it sets an example for other clubs and players. It is essential to ensure that players who engage in inappropriate behavior are held accountable for their actions and given the necessary support to make positive changes.
