Sydney Swans young gun Caiden Cleary suspended after being caught in drug sting
Sydney forward Caiden Cleary has been suspended for two games and copped a fine after being found in possession of drugs in December by police.
In a statement released by the AFL on Friday, it was revealed the 19-year-old Swan would miss the opening round clash against Hawthorn and round one game against Brisbane as part of his punishment.
Cleary was also fined $5000, which was suspended after he received a “ criminal infringement notice for possession of an illicit substance”.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“AFL Players are well-educated when it comes to the harms associated with the use of illicit substances, and have a responsibility to themselves, their clubs and their careers to uphold community expectations,” AFL general counsel Stephen Meade said.
The teenager was also fined $400 by NSW police but no criminal conviction was recorded.
“The AFL confirms Sydney Swans player Caiden Cleary has been found guilty of conduct unbecoming in breach of the AFL Rules and has been suspended for two AFL matches,” the AFL said in a statement.
“Cleary will not be available to play in Sydney’s ‘Opening Round’ match vs Hawthorn or in their Round 1 match vs Brisbane Lions in the upcoming AFL Season. He will also not be able to play in Sydney’s AAMI Community Series Match.
“Cleary’s conduct constitutes an Adverse Finding under the AFL’s Illicit Drugs Policy additionally resulting in the imposition of a $5,000 (suspended) fine on him.
“Following an incident in December 2024, Cleary’s conduct was investigated by the NSW Police resulting in him receiving a criminal infringement notice for possession of an illicit substance.
“In connection with the criminal infringement notice, Cleary received a $400 fine with no criminal conviction recorded.”
A next-generation academy product for the Swans, Cleary was drafted with pick No.23 in 2023 and played five games last year after making his debut in round 15 against arch-town rivals Greater Western Sydney.
In a statement Sydney said: “The charge relates to an incident in Sydney’s eastern suburbs last year, where Cleary attempted to possess an illicit substance and subsequently failed to notify the club.
“His conduct was investigated by NSW Police, resulting in Cleary receiving a criminal infringement notice for possession of an illicit substance and a $400 fine.
“Cleary is extremely remorseful and has cooperated fully with the AFL investigation.
“The club is extremely disappointed and does not condone nor tolerate illicit drug behaviour. The Sydney Swans will continue to educate our players on the pitfalls of such behaviour.”
