Four AFL clubs slapped with huge fines after virus crisis breaches

Four AFL clubs have been fined for breaching the league's return-to-play protocols over the past seven days.

Hawthorn received a $50,000 fine ($20,000 suspended for the remainder of the season), while Richmond, Carlton and North Melbourne were each fined $45,000 ($20,000 suspended) - with all four teams accepting their sanctions.

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The Hawks' breach occurred at their round-eight clash with Sydney at the SCG when several non-selected players were chaperoned by security to grab some chips.

Richmond’s breach occurred when a player’s partner visited a day spa.

Carlton’s involved kids of a player being dropped off to their grandparents and when picked up they found out they had been at a theme park.

North Melbourne’s involved a group of players’ partners attending a football game.

If teams are found to breach the policy a second time a $100,000 fine can be awarded, and a further breach could result in fines, the loss of premiership points or draft picks.

Caroline Wilson takes aim at WAGs

AFL boss Gillon McLachlan was reportedly concerned about a number of social media posts from players’ family members in recent days.

Veteran AFL reporter Caroline Wilson dismissed any criticism families had of the quarantine.

“There is a growing concern emerging at the northern hubs. Dare we say it, even the suggestion of some bad behaviour,” Wilson said on Footy Classified on Monday night.

“Some of the partners and families of AFL players are emerging from quarantine and trying to live their AFL-sponsored Queensland lives in a manner which could place the entire season at risk.

“May we suggest or remind you of the enormous leap of faith the Queensland government has shown, letting so many Victorians into the state as a humanitarian move to help the AFL.

“Just because you can’t meet a friend in a cafe or go to Wet’ n’Wild or go for a wander along the beach or stay on the beach all day.

“You can still swim in the surf, you can still sit around the pool. Meet a group of friends or family at a jumping castle, even wander along a coastal path. You’re doing a lot more now than we can do in Victoria.

“It is a privilege you are there, not a right. Some partners are even upset because the AFL have told them they can’t go to the footy, not understanding the hugely logistical issues this could cause for the AFL.

“It might be tough for you up there, but it’s a lot tougher down here (in Victoria).”

AFL sends warning to players’ families

Seven News reporter Tom Browne detailed McLachlan’s concerns on Monday night.

“The AFL can’t afford any COVID protocol trip-ups and issued a warning in a phone call to senior club officials this afternoon, the essence of the message: This is not a holiday,” Browne said.

“The AFL is effectively here under a government licence to play football, the rules that apply to the players apply to the wives, girlfriends and families.

“The AFL has warned to be cautious about the use of social media, even after 14 days quarantine the families can’t sit and sunbake on the beach, they can only exercise on the beach.

“They can pick up a coffee but they can’t do lunch or dinner in a restaurant and there’s certainly no adventure parks.”

With AAP