Sydney Swans chairman Andrew Pridham and CEO Matthew Pavlich release letter to community

Sydney Swans chairman Andrew Pridham and CEO Matthew Pavlich have penned a letter to the club’s community after standing down five star players while police investigate a sexual assault at the Melbourne Hotel the team were staying at on Monday.

Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice are assisting police with investigations but were stood down independently by the Swans.

This masthead is not suggesting the players are guilty of any wrongdoing, just that they are assisting police with inquiries.

As investigators moved to Sydney to continue inquiries on Thursday, the Swans sent a message to the club’s community, including the supporter base as well as everyone within the organisation.

“We are writing to address the events in Melbourne on Monday morning,” the letter read.

“First and foremost, we would like to offer a sincere apology for the distress this incident has caused the wider community, our members, supporters, commercial partners, Academy families, staff members, athletes, their partners and families.

“Our thoughts remain with everyone affected, particularly the women involved. All women deserve to feel safe and respected.

“We understand and share the hurt that many of you will be feeling. To say we are disappointed is an understatement.

“The sanctions and decisive action we have taken demonstrate the seriousness with which we have treated this matter.