Willie Rioli: AFL hands down punishment for Port Adelaide forward after threats to opposition players

The AFL has handed down a punishment for Port Adelaide forward Willie Rioli, changing its tune in the wake of revelations that he has threatened another two opposition players in the past.

Rioli has received a one-match ban by the league and must participate in education on respectful and non-violent language and conduct.

The 29-year-old had already stood himself down from playing in Saturday night’s Showdown clash with Adelaide, after claims he had previously threatened a Geelong player and an Essendon player were revealed during the week.

Those incidents came to light after the AFL had investigated claims Rioli sent a message to a Western Bulldogs’ teammate of Bailey Dale, threatening the defender. The pair had clashed on-field in Ballarat over the weekend.

“Dale was made aware of the matter but having received an apology and assurances from Rioli he did not seek that any further action be taken. Having looked into the matter and after speaking with both Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs, the AFL determined in all the circumstances not to take any action in what was considered an isolated incident at the time, the AFL statement read.

“In more recent days, and after the above determination, it has been revealed that Rioli had previously made threats to other players in two previous incidents.

“The AFL has investigated those incidents and spoke to all players and clubs involved over the last 24 hours and the AFL notes the cooperation from all parties including Rioli who made admissions in relation to his conduct.”

The league said that in addition to his punishment, Rioli would continue to be provided wellbeing support.

“We understand in a competitive and at times combative environment there are exchanges between players on-field, but they still need to be in the realms of respect and sportsmanship and that applies to everyone,” AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said.

“After receiving the additional information about further threats, we investigated and determined Rioli should not be eligible to play this week and that he undertakes further education around a pattern of behaviour we don’t want to see in any part of our game – on or off the field.

“Respect for each other, whether players, coaches, fans, is the cornerstone of our AFL community and it is a reminder for everyone involved to treat each other with respect.”

In a statement released by the Power on Thursday, Rioli labelled his comments “totally unacceptable”.

The West Coast premiership player confirmed he apologised to Dale and re-iterated his remorse.

“I say things from time to time on the footy field in the heat of the moment that I wish I didn’t and I’m continuing to work with the club on managing this moving forward,” Rioli said.

“It’s not in my true nature or character to say those things and I apologise for any distress I cause to individuals or their families.

“I want to thank the Port Adelaide Football Club and all of my teammates and coaches for their support.”