The AFL is investigating St Kilda forward Lance Collard for allegedly using a homophobic slur in the VFL on Friday night, less than two years after he copped a six-game game for the same offence.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Saints said they are cooperating with the AFL.
“St Kilda Football Club is aware of an alleged incident involving one of its players during last night’s VFL match against Frankston,” the statement reads.
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“The club takes matters of this nature extremely seriously and is working closely with the AFL integrity unit as it conducts its investigation into the matter.
“While this process is underway, it would be inappropriate for the club to comment further.”
Collard was banned for six games for using homophobic slurs in a VFL clash in July 2024, for which he was made to undergo a Pride in Sport education program.
Friday’s alleged repeat offence completed a bad night for Collard, who was already in hot water for hitting a Frankston player in the head with a swinging arm.
The hit sparked a fracas between several players from both sides.
Collard has played 15 games at senior level for the Saints since being drafted with pick 28 in 2023.
He remains contracted until the end of next year.
In the wake of his 2024 incident, the 21-year-old said his slur was not a representation of him as a person.
“I am incredibly remorseful for my comments and any hurt they may have caused,” he said in a statement at the time.
“I’m disappointed in myself and fully accept the consequences for my behaviour.
“What I did doesn’t represent my values, or the values of the club. I have apologised to the Williamstown players who were impacted by my behaviour, and unreservedly reiterate that apology to anyone else my conduct affected.”
Collard’s latest indiscretion comes just days after former Brisbane Lions player Leigh Ryswyk made history by becoming the first openly gay current or former AFL player.
