A Collingwood Football Club member has been banned for five years after sending disturbing death threats to Carlton coach Michael Voss. Initially believed to be a Carlton supporter, the individual’s true affiliation emerged following an investigation into the threats, which included alarming references to “murder” and “23 missing persons.” The message was sent via the Melbourne Cricket Ground’s (MCG) anti-social hotline.
Details of the threat were disclosed in a report by News Corp. The message stated, “I’d like to report 23 missing persons and pre-emptively report the murder of Michael Voss.” This alarming communication prompted immediate action from both the AFL and the Collingwood Football Club.
Collingwood expressed its disapproval in a statement, emphasizing the seriousness of the member’s conduct. “The club is very disappointed by the member’s actions which have resulted in a five-year ban from both the MCG and AFL – Collingwood will follow suit,” the statement read. The club firmly stated that it does not tolerate threats against officials, supporters, or any individuals connected to the sport.
The threats came during a tense period for Voss, as his team struggled in the current season. The AFL’s integrity and security boss, Tony Keane, highlighted the importance of the hotline, which aims to ensure a safe environment for all attendees. “The text message in question… crossed the line,” Keane noted. “Regardless of the intent, no coach, player, official, staff member, or fan deserves to be threatened in such a way.”
In a significant match last Friday, Collingwood defeated its arch-rival Carlton by a commanding margin of 56 points. This loss dropped Carlton to 12th place on the ladder with a record of 6-10, diminishing their chances of reaching the finals. The team will face the reigning premiers, Brisbane, at Marvel Stadium on the evening of March 15, 2024.
Voss, who previously led Carlton to a preliminary final against Brisbane two years ago, has faced increased scrutiny this season. In light of recent events, he has received support from various colleagues, including his former Brisbane teammate and Collingwood coach Craig McRae and Chris Fagan, the head coach of Brisbane.
In addition to the threats, Carlton’s Ikon Park headquarters recently became the target of vandalism, with graffiti demanding the sacking of the club’s board. Despite the turmoil, Voss’s position appears secure, at least until the conclusion of the current campaign.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on creating a safe environment for all involved in the sport, ensuring that such unacceptable behavior is addressed swiftly and effectively.
