FFA has fined Dandenong Thunder a whopping $40,000 and has been deducted three championship points for misconduct at the 2012 Victorian Premier League Grand Final.
Rocket flares were fired at the final, putting spectators and players at risk.
The FFA says their decision is not heavy handed and used the team as an example that outrageous behaviour will not be tolerated.
FFA’s Appeals Committee said “This was, after all, the showcase of the game in Victoria and the behaviour of the Club’s supporters was all the more appalling in that context. Further, and arguably more importantly, spectators, including many children, were put at risk of substantial personal injury by the discharging of flares, particularly rocket flares.”
FFV’s CEO Peter Gome thinks there has been significant reductions in misconduct at games and believes the strong fines will force the teams to take a much tougher stance with their fans.
“FFV’s Zero Tolerance Policy has seen a drastic reduction in overall misconduct since its implementation in 2008 and 2012 saw this trend continue.
“Only 102 matters were brought before the FFV Independent Tribunal in 2012 compared with 155 in 2011.”
Dandenong Thunder players will have to undertake the FFV Respect and Responsibility Course to be allowed to play this season.
The courses aim to help club members and supporters understand the importance of good behaviour on and off the field
There were only 50 instances of clubs being fined at tribunal in 2012, compared to 246 in 2011.
