North Shore has conducted an internal review after a post-game incident following its loss to Leopold at Memorial Park on Saturday, resulting in a six-match suspension for coach Mark Hounslow.
The Seagulls have accepted the sanction offered to Hounslow by AFL Barwon’s Match Review Panel after its own enquiries found the second-year mentor breached the AFL Coaches Code of Conduct by approaching the umpires as they prepared to leave the field.
In a statement released this (Wednesday) afternoon, North Shore says it will undertake its own disciplinary action “that reflects our responsibility to uphold the values of our Club, our obligations under AFL policies and codes of conduct, and our commitment to maintaining the integrity of our sport”.
“While this incident does not reflect the values of our club, it is our responsibility to address it decisively,” Seagulls president Maryian Szponar said.
“We have taken immediate action, completed a thorough review, and are working closely with our coaching group to ensure the standards expected at North Shore are clearly understood and upheld.
“Respect for umpires and officials is non-negotiable, and we remain committed to fostering a positive environment for everyone involved in our game.”
North Shore says that, on top of the internal review, it has met with the club’s senior football leaders to reinforce standards of behaviour and has commenced a process of education and re-engagement with senior coaching staff, including a focus on emotional control in high-pressure situations.
The Seagulls have also reaffirmed their commitment to the AFL Coaches Code of Conduct and implemented measures to support coaches and team officials.
X: @krockfootball
