Lions statement on Brendan Fevola
The Brisbane Lions AFC today suspended forward Brendan Fevola indefinitely pending an investigation by the AFL.
The Club was advised of an incident alleging inappropriate behaviour including alleged indecent exposure involving Fevola at a non-Club function last weekend.
Lions Chief Executive Michael Bowers said a man had rung the Club to complain about Fevola's inappropriate behaviour towards his wife when the couple and two of their four children were at a non-Club function where Fevola and several other Lions players were in attendance.
Mr Bowers said the Club spoke with the man and then immediately alerted the AFL who began an investigation into the incident. After speaking with AFL investigators the family also approached Queensland police.
"Respect and responsibility towards women is something that this Club thinks is non-negotiable. We feel that the allegation is a very serious one and we think if the behaviour is as described, then it's unacceptable behaviour for anyone in football," Mr Bowers said.
"While everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence, the Brisbane Lions Football Club wants to make clear it is taking this incident seriously and feels the only proper course of action is to suspend Brendan immediately from all Club activity until such time as the AFL and police have had an opportunity to investigate the matter further."
"The Club will continue to cooperate fully with the AFL and any Queensland police investigation."
"As a result of the suspension, Brendan will not be attending our Club Champion event tomorrow night."
Mr Bowers said there was no suggestion that the other players who were at the function had been involved in or had witnessed the alleged incident.
Considering the nature of this incident, the Club will wait until any investigations are complete before deciding on any further action.