GWS hand down sanctions on Shane Mumford over drug video

Michael Di Lonardo

GWS hand down sanctions on Shane Mumford over drug video image

GWS have laid down the law on Shane Mumford with a string of sanctions after a video of him appearing to snort an illicit substance went viral.

The former Giants ruckman has been hit with a two-game suspension should he return to the AFL and a $25,000 fine for the incident, having to accept an illicit drug code strike as well as undertaking drug and alcohol counselling while working with community programs based on mental health and drug rehabilitation.

The club-imposed punishment related to an incident that occurred back in August 2015 after Mumford had suffered a season-ending injury that year.

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It is understood the drug strike has been backdated to when the incident took place, and the slate is wiped clean once a player has no strikes for four years.

It means Mumford won't have any strikes if he doesn't offend again between now and August 2019.

Before the video surfaced, Mumford announced plans of coming out of retirement and it is believed the Giants are still keen on picking him up in the AFL Draft.

“Shane is deeply remorseful and embarrassed by his behaviour from three years ago. As a club we were very disappointed in Shane’s actions and the circumstances generally,'' Giants chief executive David Matthews said.
 
“While Shane has unquestionably been an important part of the Giants as both a player and coach in recent years, the club feels these sanctions are absolutely appropriate to ensure he fully understands the implications of his actions. The club will also continue to support Shane as this has clearly been a difficult time for him and his family.
 
“Shane has unequivocally accepted the sanctions.  Some of the sanctions imposed relate to Shane potentially resuming his playing career. A decision on a possible return to the Giants playing list will be considered in the coming weeks.”

Mumford played 72 games for GWS, winning the Kevin Sheedy Medal as the club's best and fairest player in his first season with the Giants in 2014.

He was also part of Sydney's 2012 premiership team.

Michael Di Lonardo

Michael Di Lonardo Photo