Hawthorn settle Federal Court case with Indigenous players

Hawthorn have settled their Federal Court case with Indigenous former players and their families, apologising for their experiences at the club, and reaching a financial settlement.

After two days of mediation this week, the club settled with Cyril Rioli, Shannyn Ah Sam-Rioli, Jermaine Miller-Lewis, Montanah-Rae Lewis, Carl Peterson and Leon Egan.

“Hawthorn is sorry and apologises that the former players, partners, and their families, in either pursuing a football career, or in supporting such a person, experienced ongoing hurt and distress in their time at the club,” the Hawks said in a joint statement with the former players, staff and family members.

Cyril Rioli and his wife, Shannyn Ah Sam-Rioli. Cyril is one of Hawthorn’s greatest ever players, winning four premierships and a Norm Smith Medal across his 189-game career. He was also named to the All-Australian team three times before his retirement at just 28.

“Hawthorn accepts that the allegations were made in good faith, and has heard, respects, and accepts that they represent their truths.

Click here to read article