Ararat’s Tom Williamson suspended after contact with Southern Mallee Thunder player
A former AFL player, who is considered one of country footy’s best players, is set to challenge a striking charge at the tribunal. Watch the vision of the incident.
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Tom Williamson and Ararat will head to the tribunal on Thursday night looking to overturn a suspension which could make him ineligible for the Wimmera league best and fairest for the second time in three years.
The former Carlton player has been given a two-week suspension after an incident with Southern Mallee Thunder player Kai Sheers last Saturday during the Rats’ 52-point win.
Footage shows Williamson making contact to Sheers’ face after both tussle for position as the umpire prepares to throw the ball up in the middle of the ground during the first quarter.
An out of zone umpire has then awarded a free kick to Sheers with Williamson seen talking to the umpire.
An umpire referral following the match has seen Williamson charged with striking another person with the match review panel deeming the incident intentional with high contact and low impact.
The match review panel handed down a two-game suspension to Williamson, which could be one week with an early guilty plea.
Ararat president David Hosking confirmed the club has opted not to take the offer, instead fighting the charge at the tribunal.
An AFL Victoria spokesperson confirmed Williamson’s hearing will take place on Thursday night.
If Williamson’s appeal isn’t overturned, he will face two weeks on the sidelines and rule him out of the Toohey Medal for the second time in three years.
In 2023, he had the most votes in the best and fairest count, but was ruled ineligible for the award after serving a week suspension for striking.
Williamson is in contention this year for the award after starting the season in stunning form, kicking 22 goals in four games and being named among the best in all matches.
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