St Kilda coach Ross Lyon has issued a stark warning about the human cost of the AFL's tribunal system, stating it leaves players psychologically 'damaged'. His comments follow the recent tribunal case involving St Kilda player Jimmy Webster, who received a seven-match suspension for a high bump.
Lyon emphasized the intense emotional and mental strain the process places on players, who must defend themselves in a high-stakes, public legal setting. He described the experience as brutal and called for a more compassionate and supportive system that considers player welfare.
The AFL tribunal is the league's independent judicial body, responsible for adjudicating on-field incidents and determining sanctions. Lyon's critique adds to ongoing discussions about the balance between maintaining discipline and protecting the mental health of players involved in the process.
