AFL warns families that hub life is no holiday in the Sunshine State

Hawthorn premiership coach Alastair Clarkson has escaped sanction but not censure for recent criticism of umpires as the AFL issues hub life edict.

The wife of an AFL player allowed her children to be looked after by their grandparents who took them to a Queensland theme park

The families who have accompanied players to hubs in Queensland have been cautioned that they must follow the same strict coronavirus regulations imposed on AFL clubs.

The AFL is paying for dozens of partners and children to live in hub accommodation given it is unlikely Victorian clubs will be able to return home this season.

While footballers in Queenslanders have greater freedom than those based in Perth, they are not allowed to linger on the beach or in cafes, for example.

But Collingwood president Eddie McGuire raised concerns some family members were unaware of the strict rules they must follow and warned they were putting the season at risk.

He cited an example of the wife of a player who allowed her children to be looked after by their Queensland-based grandparents.

In turn, they took the children to a theme park, which is against the AFL’s COVID-19 guidelines.

“It is one of those one degree of separation goes further out,” he said on Triple M.

“There was no malice involved but I understand that has caused a major drama up amongst the hubs there, because the kids went with grandma and grandpa to one of the theme parks.

“We need the rules really stipulated. Everyone has a good excuse for these things and … sometimes it is a mistake, but we just can’t afford to have them.”

"I understand that has caused a major drama up amongst the hubs”

Eddie McGuire had some details about how quarantine protocols are accidentally being breached in the hubs.

LISTEN HERE: https://t.co/9gwRWK6pF9 pic.twitter.com/www7w6Bnok

— MMM's Hot Breakfast (@mmmhotbreakfast) July 27, 2020

Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge confirmed club chief executive Ameet Bains had written to those in the hub on Monday to remind them of their obligations, though he stressed his club was not involved in the breach.

“We are content we are doing everything right. We need to be sensitive to what the AFL have dictated and what the Queensland government expects,” Beveridge said.

“It is a reminder that we need to make sure we continue to be compliant and treat it with respect. I think everyone will check themself and make sure they are doing the right thing.”

The AFL has also written to all clubs reminding them of their obligations regarding commentary on umpires after criticism from coaches and players including Alastair Clarkson.

The Hawthorn coach escaped sanction but not censure for his comments after the loss to Sydney on Saturday, with the AFL determined to stamp out the abuse of umpires.

“The comments made in recent weeks are against the spirit of the game and are not examples of the conduct required by leaders within the AFL,” an AFL statement read.

“The message today is to be expressive, have an opinion and provide insight for fans, but to do so in a manner that shows a level of respect to all involved.”

Do we allow these umpires back into our hotel after the game !?! 😂 🤣 #AFLCatsPies

— Josh Jenkins (@JoshJenkins24) July 16, 2020

Geelong received a blow ahead of their clash against West Coast in Perth on Saturday night when spearhead Tom Hawkins was issued with a one-match ban for elbowing Luke Ryan.

The repeated disciplinary breaches by the spearhead, who kicked three goals in a low-scoring match played in miserable conditions, are a concern for the Cats.

Hawkins was contrite after missing last year’s preliminary final against Richmond through suspension but another flash of his temper leaves Geelong weakened for another big match.