‘Eddie McGuire Delivers Impassioned Address on AFL’s Illicit Drug Policy: “I’m Tired of Attending Funerals”‘

AFL figure Eddie McGuire has made an impassioned appeal for a revision of the league’s drug policy, sparked by remarks from recently departing AFLPA president Paul Marsh.

Marsh stepped forward to defend Bailey Smith following the Geelong player’s contentious Instagram post hinting at drug use if his team clinches the grand final.

He also directed criticism at those commenting on the AFL’s welfare-oriented illicit drug policy, a remark many perceived as aimed at McGuire, who has consistently advocated for policy reform.

“We certainly do not condone it,” Marsh stated.

“(But) show us the proof that a more punitive approach is going to yield better results in this matter.”

“What tends to be frustrating is the amount of people, who are not experts in this area, suggesting solutions that we find to be completely illogical.”

“We’re collaborating with specialists and are looking forward to finalising a behaviour-change strategy that will hopefully be revealed soon.”

The existing three-strike policy allows players to remain anonymous until they are identified and faces a four-game suspension, while a third strike could result in a year-long ban.

McGuire advocates for stricter consequences, insisting on naming players involved. Nick Riewoldt has also described the AFL’s current approach as “outdated.”

During a recent segment on Nine’s Footy Classified, McGuire delivered an emotionally charged four-minute commentary, asserting that Smith’s behaviour was “making fools” of the AFL.

(See the complete remarks in the video above)

“I’m sick of attending funerals,” he expressed.

“I’m exhausted by witnessing careers unravel. I’m fed up with clubs collapsing due to these situations.

“I’m weary of players putting themselves at risk by engaging in dangerous activities, which can lead to match-fixing. Umpires also get caught up in drugs, and people need to understand that this occurs.”

McGuire pointed out that players who voluntarily report their actions face no penalties, while those caught during matches suffer significantly harsher repercussions.

He commended the AFL and AFLPA for prioritising empathy for players and adopting a medical perspective, but insisted “we’re well past that now”.

“I believe the community has reached a tipping point; we must establish firm boundaries, whether on the streets or in any other setting,” he asserted.

“We cannot continue down this current path; it simply isn’t effective. Every other week, we’re witnessing another player embroiled in scandal.”

When pressed about Marsh’s comments regarding expert opinions, McGuire elaborated on experiences he’s had throughout his time with the AFL.

“Let me tell you what I consider myself an expert in: I have lost count of how many times I’ve seen two young players sitting on my couch, sweating profusely because they’ve been found guilty of consuming a contaminated drug and face a two-year ban,” he recounted.

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“And here I am, sitting with Gary Pert, Neil Balme, and two young Collingwood players whose futures are in jeopardy. We assured them we’d support them throughout their ordeal, contrary to what the PA claims about clubs being ruthless. No one at a football club wants to penalise someone unless they absolutely must.”

“This kind of insinuation irritates me because I’ve witnessed firsthand the struggles we’ve faced. I’ve been to too many funerals, seen too many players fall victim. It’s a weekly occurrence now; we need to wake up and face reality. The community has had enough.”

“If the AFL can lead the charge against drugs, it should. Drugs are destroying our communities, dismantling clubs in suburbs and rural areas alike, and infiltrating women’s groups. It’s a widespread issue.”

The former president of Collingwood remarked that he first raised concerns about the drug policy back in 1999 during a meeting with AFL presidents.

McGuire concluded with a compelling message.

“There are three principles to follow in life if you wish to achieve success. Don’t do drugs, don’t do drugs, don’t do drugs,” he declared.

“You can gather every so-called expert from here to Timbuktu to disagree with me. If you believe drugs are beneficial, please come and have a chat.”