The AFL Players’ Association has issued the following statement in response to the decision of the AFL and Sport Integrity Australia under the AFL Anti-Doping Code in relation to Rhys Mathieson. 

The AFLPA acknowledges the three-year period of ineligibility imposed on Rhys Mathieson by the AFL Anti-Doping Code for the detection of a metabolite of the prohibited substance Oxymetholone. 

Rhys tested positive to the substance after engaging in a high performance strength and conditioning program and then playing football below the elite level after his AFL career had ended. 

The AFL and Sport Integrity Australia have recognised that a sanction of three years acknowledges that Rhys used the substance for reasons unrelated to football performance while playing for a club in Queensland. 

The period of ineligibility takes effect from 10 August 2024 to recognise the date of the provisional suspension imposed on Rhys, the delay in progressing the matter, and Rhys’s cooperation. 

The AFLPA will continue to support Rhys as an Alumni member. 

-Ends-