Alastair Clarkson, the four-time champion coach, asserts that lawyers are impeding the conclusion of the Hawthorn racism issue, stating that the families at the core of the accusations were prepared to make a settlement.
As part of their legal case against the Hawks for racism, three former players, including legendary player Cyril Rioli, filed a statement of claim on Monday, describing their alleged experiences.
The statement of claim, which was filed in the Federal Court and included Rioli’s wife, Shannyn Ah Sam-Rioli, his former teammates Carl Peterson and Jermaine Miller-Lewis, Indigenous former official Leon Egan, and the partner of another former player, claimed the players suffered “distress,” “psychological harm,” and “personal injury.” Clarkson, who is currently the coach of North Melbourne, addressed the media at Arden Street on Thursday.
It is further asserted that the three players experienced a “loss of earnings and loss of earning capacity.”
It was “unfortunate,” according to Clarkson, that all parties were unable to come to an agreement during a hearing before the Australian Human Rights Commission and an independent AFL investigation. He expressed his eagerness to provide additional background on the accusations.
We’ve only had a few chances to take part in the Human Rights Commission. It was a really, really productive couple of days, but regrettably, the legal eagles get involved and complicate matters. I think it could have been addressed if it had been left to the people directly engaged, Clarkson added.
“We’re hoping that eventually everything will be resolved and given some context.”
When the families who had filed the complaints were asked directly if they wanted the case to be settled but were advised not to by their attorneys, Clarkson retorted, “I believe that the Human Rights Commission was a great place to start since everyone there was really kind, but it goes beyond that and turns into more of a legal formality. Hopefully, we’ll discover more of a
The Hawks were also asked to comment on how their lawyers had handled the matter. Hawthorn president Andy Gowers said the club was working towards a resolution.
“As we have done throughout this process, we will continue to work towards a resolution in a fair and timely manner for all parties,” Gowers said in a statement.
“The Federal Court process will importantly give Hawthorn Football Club the opportunity to respond to these allegations. Given the matter is now before the courts, it would be inappropriate to make any kind of comment that could impact on that process.”
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