North Shore has settled on a four-week suspension for coach Mark Hounslow as a further sanction following his ban for an incident in the immediate aftermath of the Round 10 loss to Leopold.
Hounslow, who is in his second season in charge at Windsor Park, accepted a six-match suspension from AFL Barwon’s Match Review Panel after footage showed him approach umpires at the conclusion of the 25-point defeat.
The club suspension runs until Monday, July 20, precluding him from “any coaching duties or football-related operational responsibilities associated with the senior football program”.
Hounslow, who will continue to be paid, is expected to meet six requirements before returning to the role, including providing a written apology to the match-day umpires and North Shore, providing a formal commitment to club values and AFL standards, and participating in professional development on behavioural awareness.
However, with it understood Hounslow will face the AFL Barwon Tribunal later this week in relation to another matter from the Leopold match, the club sanction is likely to be reviewed following that hearing.
“This decision has not been taken lightly. It reflects our responsibility to uphold the standards and expectations of the AFL, protect the reputation of our club, and reinforce the culture we are striving to build across both our football and netball programs,” a letter seen by K rock Footbal that was sent to Hounslow by North Shore earlier today (Monday) said.
“Importantly, this period of suspension is intended not only as a disciplinary measure, but also as an opportunity for reflection, learning and growth.
“The club’s objective is to support your successful return to coaching while ensuring that the standards expected of all North Shore Football Netball Club representatives are clearly understood and upheld.”
The club said it valued the contribution of Hounslow, who has helped take the club from the brink of extinction before the 2025 season to meeting its commitment to fielding senior and reserve grade teams.
“However, leadership positions carry a heightened responsibility to model the behaviours and standards expected throughout the club,” the letter continued.
“The club remains committed to supporting your return following the suspension period and views the requirements outlined above as an opportunity to demonstrate accountability, rebuild trust, and reaffirm your commitment to the values of respect, integrity, sportsmanship and leadership.
“We trust you will approach this period with professionalism and reflection, and we look forward to working with you towards a positive return that reflects the standards expected of a North Shore Football Netball Club coach and leader.”
The AFL Barwon suspension also impacts Hounslow’s role as coach of an Ocean Grove under-14 team.
“Mark has voluntarily stood down as coach of the Grubbers under-14 Pearson team during this six-week period,” a statement from the Grubbers said.
“At the conclusion of the suspension, the situation will be reviewed, and any future arrangements will be considered at that time.
“The Ocean Grove Football Netball Club will continue to support Mark, his family, players and parents that this may effect (sic).
“The Ocean Grove Football and Netball Club is committed to upholding the values of respect, sportsmanship and positive conduct across all levels of our club, umpires and opposition. We appreciate the understanding and support of our players, families, volunteers and members during this period.”
X: @krockfootball
