The AFL and Essendon offered James Hird a series of inducements to accept a 12-month suspension from coaching and drop his court action against the league, The Australian reports today.
“In a bid to end the six-month supplements scandal, Hird was offered study abroad, his full salary while suspended and a dropping of the charge against him if he agreed to the AFL’s terms,” the report says.
“The offer, which would prevent damaging allegations against senior AFL officials being aired in open court, provided Essendon with additional sweeteners, including a guarantee that no players would be sanctioned by the league.”
The report – which is sure to ruffle feathers at AFL House – claims the deal was negotiated between Australian Sports Commission chairman John Wylie acting as an intermediary between AFL chairman Mike Fitzpatrick and Essendon president Paul Little.
Hird was allegedly offered the opportunity for career development if he dropped legal action against the AFL, the report claims.
On August 23, Wylie allegedly sent an email to Essendon chairman Paul Little suggesting a 12-month suspension for Hird from all coaching duties.
“To the best of the AFL’s knowledge and belief, Hird did not promote or encourage an unethical environment within the club; Hird has not brought the game into disrepute,” Wylie reportedly said in the email.
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He said Hird was to take responsibility for “inadequate governance and oversight” that gave rise to the situation.
“In the totality of the circumstances, the AFL will impose, and Hird will accept, a 12-month suspension from all coaching duties.”
In a separate document given to Hird, during talks with Wylie and Little, he is offered “an outstanding career development opportunity” if he drops legal action against the AFL.
Essendon were ultimately fined $2 million and missed the AFL finals as punishment.
