Time for a Change: AFL Icon Nick Riewoldt Urges Overhaul of Illicit Drug Policy

Nick Riewoldt has urged for a significant revision of the AFL’s illicit drug policy, amid rising apprehensions regarding player misuse of the existing regulations.

In response to mounting criticism about the disturbing culture that has permeated the league, the AFL has suggested implementing a more stringent three-strikes approach.

Notable incidents have come to light in recent years, including former Melbourne player Joel Smith, who tested positive for cocaine on match day in 2023.

Additionally, Caiden Cleary from the Swans was apprehended by NSW police with an illicit substance, subsequently receiving a two-match suspension from the AFL.

Riewoldt has been a vocal opponent of the current drug protocols in the AFL, emphasising that a change is urgently required.

“If it happens, fantastic. I’ve been advocating for reform for about ten years,” Riewoldt remarked to The Sydney Morning Herald.

“It’s evident that the policy requires more strictness. This will benefit both the players and the players’ association by fostering accountability.”

“I back a complete overhaul, as it is evidently necessary.”

“The current self-reporting system creates loopholes that can be manipulated, which, while it may not seem problematic at first, can potentially lead to greater issues in the future,” he continued during an interview for Seven’s expanded AFL coverage.

“I believe this could have aided numerous players. We have witnessed some very heartbreaking stories recently.”

“Whenever there are gaps in the system that offer flexibility, in my view, such leniency is detrimental.”

“Ultimately, many players exhibit a disregard for the existing policy.”

The proposed changes by the AFL would impose a $5000 fine for a first offence, with public disclosure following a second offence, which would also result in a suspension.

For AFLW players, a first offence would incur a $900 fine, echoing the men’s league’s penalties for subsequent offences.

The amendments would also eliminate the self-reporting loophole, which has previously allowed players to evade the consequences of a second offence by voluntarily disclosing their drug usage.

However, the AFL Players Association’s chief executive, Paul Marsh, expressed concern that some of these changes might jeopardise player confidentiality.

“Our industry does not always excel at maintaining confidentiality, and we are not willing to go down that path,” he stated to The Sydney Morning Herald.

“We are worried that these matters could be leveraged against players during contract negotiations.”

This comment followed the announcement that the sport’s governing body would appoint a panel of officials notified of any positive test results.

Currently, only the club doctor and AFL doctor are privy to the information following a first positive test.

Marsh acknowledged that the union would reject any changes involving immediate fines and would protect the anonymity of players who test positive.

AFL chief executive Andrew Dillion confirmed that the policy adjustments will address the concerns raised by players and the AFLPA.

“We are in the process of reviewing it,” he stated on Wednesday.

“Our goal is to refine and strengthen the policy. We are currently in discussion with the players and the AFLPA regarding this matter.

“Changes are forthcoming. When they do occur, we will collaborate with the Players Association. Ultimately, it’s a voluntary code that players are agreeing to, which exceeds most regulations seen in other sports both in Australia and worldwide.

“We recognise this, but we also understand that illicit drug use is a broader community and societal issue. We aim to ensure that we can educate our players as effectively as possible.”