Sydney Swans’ Caiden Cleary Suspended for Two Matches Due to Drug Violation

The AFL has handed young Swan Caiden Cleary a two-match suspension following an incident involving an illicit drugs charge.

In December, NSW Police apprehended the 19-year-old while attempting to purchase drugs at a venue located in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, Cleary failed to inform the Swans about the incident, which they only recently discovered and subsequently reported to the AFL.

He received a criminal conviction notice for possession of an illicit substance and was fined $400, though he avoided a criminal conviction.

On Friday afternoon, the AFL confirmed that Cleary had been found guilty of conduct deemed unbecoming, which resulted in an “adverse finding” under its illicit drugs policy, along with a suspended fine of $5,000.

AFL general counsel Stephen Meade stated, “AFL players are well-informed about the risks associated with the use of illicit substances, and they have a duty to themselves, their clubs, and their futures to meet community standards.”

In their own statement, the Swans expressed that Cleary was “deeply remorseful” and had “fully cooperated with the AFL investigation.”

“The club is incredibly disappointed and does not condone or tolerate drug-related behaviours,” the statement emphasised.

“The Sydney Swans are committed to educating our players on the dangers of such actions.”

Cleary will miss the Swans’ inaugural match against Hawthorn, as well as the round one bout against the Lions. Additionally, he will not participate in the Community Series game against the Suns.

A first-round selection in the 2023 draft, Cleary featured in five matches under coach John Longmire last year and had been vying for a permanent position in Dean Cox’s side.