Darwin Football Player Has Received Suspension After A Mid-Game Beer
The 22-year-old Darwin Buffaloes footy player Thomas Baulch has been suspended and will miss two games after sipping on a beer mid-game
AFL player Thomas Baulch has received a two-week suspension after drinking a beer during Darwin's Round 18 match against Southern Districts at Norbuilt Oval.
A video has emerged showing a spectator running to Baulch in the fourth quarter near the goal post.
He tossed him the cheeky mid-game beverage while his team was being thrashed by Southern Districts.
Baulch was charged with serious misconduct and a two-week suspension, with the case referred to the Tribunal.
Baulch was ordered to remove the video from all his social platforms and apologise to the AFLNT.
Following the incident, AFLNT issued a statement that said: "Thomas Baulch of Darwin Buffaloes Football Club has been charged with serious misconduct in the fourth quarter of the TIO NTFL Men's Premier League match between Southern Districts and Darwin Buffaloes at Norbuilt Oval.
"Based on the evidence available, it was the view of the MRP that the incident should be referred directly to the Tribunal."
Baulch posted an apology to Facebook: "Love my club and genuinely love my footy!
"Drinking is not something I promote during a game, but having fun with your footy definitely is!
"Enjoy the game, give back to the fans and let the boys play."
Darwin Buffaloes Football Club president Shaun Pearce wasn't too impressed with the tribunal's decision to suspend Baulch.
He told news.com.au, "We are very disappointed with the tribunal outcome, and while we don't condone the implied drinking on the field and how it looks, we feel it is a severely harsh penalty compared to other incidents and tribunal outcomes during the year."
Baulch later appeared on 6PR Radio and said that although he doesn't condone his actions, he's received incredible support from fans on social media.
Some have even commenting that he'd reached 'legendary' status in their eyes.
"I'm lucky enough to have everyone very supportive on social media which is very lucky to have, but it was a silly decision by me, and I shouldn't have done it," he said.
The 22-year-old Darwin Buffaloes footballer said he was 'just trying to have a bit of fun' with his teammates. Thankfully, he's only received only a little slap on the wrist for now.
Featured Image Credit:Charisa Bossinakis