FNSW Statement regarding Ray Marshall Reserve incident
Football NSW is assisting NSW Police with their investigation into an alleged assault at Ray Marshall Reserve on Sunday 27 September 2015 in round 3 of the Champion of Champions match between Pendle Hill FC and Arncliffe Aurora FC U17s, and has commenced its own investigation into the matter in accordance with the FNSW Grievance and Disciplinary Regulations.
Football NSW CEO Eddie Moore stated these actions were completely unacceptable.
“As the governing body for the game, Football NSW finds actions like these are completely unacceptable in any sporting environment.
“The safety of players, match officials, coaches and fans is paramount in the conduct of all our matches.
“Presenting a safe and friendly environment for all those involved in our sport is fundamental to our values.
“There are literally thousands of matches played across the state through the football season and I can guarantee this matter is an isolated case and actions like these are not a part of game we are continuing to build.
“I have been able to speak with father of the player involved and offered our support to the family.
“At this point in time we are continuing our own investigation into the matter and equally cooperating with the NSW Police in gathering all the evidence and relevant witness statement.”
Football NSW is currently obtaining statements from relevant witnesses. Football NSW will determine what charges may be laid against those involved, including the clubs, and those charges will be dealt with by our independent General Purposes Tribunal in due course. If any charges are proven, possible sanctions may include fines, a loss of competition points, suspension from competitions, and the suspension of players from all football activities.
While we are continuing to gather information about the incident, we understand the match was hard fought and played in good spirits for the majority of the time, however in the second half, two of the Arncliffe Aurora FC players were shown red cards; one for having received a second yellow card and the other for dissent towards the referee.
It has been alleged that after the final whistle, players from both sides were involved in an incident which resulted in one of the Pendle Hill FC players being punched and suffering a fractured jaw. It has been alleged that one of the Arncliffe Aurora FC players previously red carded was involved in the alleged assault.
We understand the player’s injury required surgery and this took place this morning (Monday 28th of September 2015).
There is no previous history of incidents between the two clubs.
Football NSW works with Associations and clubs throughout the year in ensuring the football experience is a safe and fun environment for players, coaches, referees, volunteers and spectators.
Utilising campaigns such as ‘Play By The Rules’ and ‘RESPECT’ and through our extensive efforts in educating Associations and clubs on their Working With Children requirements, Football NSW is proactive in its approach to the protection of its members.
Football NSW along with NSW Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/ – Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence
