A promising young forward for the West Coast Eagles is facing a significant charge of serious misconduct, stemming from an alleged unsportsmanlike act during a recent WAFL fixture. The player's conduct is reportedly being investigated, with potential repercussions for his playing future.

The incident, described as a 'disgusting act' by media reports, has prompted the club to bring the player before the WAFL Tribunal to address the allegations.

Allegations of Unsportsmanlike Conduct

According to reports, the West Coast Eagles player, Malakai Champion, has been charged with serious misconduct for an alleged act described as a 'bushman's blow'. The incident is said to have occurred in the second quarter of a recent game, where Champion reportedly used his finger to block one nostril before expelling mucus from the other onto an opponent.

Champion and a Swan Districts player, Sebastian Bright, were involved in multiple exchanges during the match. Bright himself received a two-game ban, reducible to one with an early plea, for striking Champion in the first quarter.

Champion's AFL Experience

Malakai Champion has made 10 appearances in the AFL, with eight of those coming this season. The forward has kicked four goals and was initially selected by the Eagles as a category B rookie in 2024.

This case draws parallels to a previous incident involving North Melbourne's Tristan Xerri, who received a three-week suspension for wiping blood on an opponent earlier in the season.

Ross Lyon's Take on Fixturing

In separate news, St Kilda coach Ross Lyon has commented on the AFL's scheduling of the Saints' clash against Greater Western Sydney, which coincided with the Socceroos playing a World Cup match. Lyon suggested the timing was a deliberate decision by the league.

Addressing the low attendance of 17,748 for the Saints-Giants game, Lyon stated, “If someone knew it was on and you’re a full time fixturer, I think it was a deliberate decision, wasn’t it?” He added, “Was it logical? That was debatable but it was a deliberate decision. But I like the attitude, ‘we’re the AFL, we’re a Saints home game, our people will come’.” Lyon acknowledged the need for the Saints to win more games to attract larger crowds, regardless of external sporting events.