Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
ABC News
ABC News
Health

West Coast's Jack Darling banned from training for failing to meet AFL COVID vaccine mandate

Jack Darling has not received his first dose of a COVID vaccine. (Getty Images: Dylan Burns)

West Coast Eagles forward Jack Darling will be unable to train or play with the club having not met the AFL's COVID-19 vaccination mandate.

All players and football staff of AFL clubs in WA had until Friday to receive their first dose of a COVID vaccine, with a second dose required by February 18.

Darling, who was a premiership player in 2018, an All Australian in 2019 and West Coast's leading goal-kicker in 2021, will not be allowed at the Eagles' training base or be able to play in the AFL until he meets the mandate.

"While Jack will take some time to assess his future, he will train independently of the remainder of the squad," a club statement read.

"The club will continue to support Jack as he contemplates his options and is optimistic that he will return to build on his outstanding career to date.

"While the club does respect the right to personal choice, it also supports the protocols put in place by the AFL and governments – both federal and state – as they navigate their way through this persistent and challenging pandemic.

"Neither the club nor Jack will make any further comment on the matter."

Darling in action during the 2018 grand final. (AAP: Julian Smith)

In November, Carlton's Liam Jones retired from the game due to his refusal to receive a vaccine.

Adelaide Crows AFLW player Deni Varnhagen is currently sitting out the season for the same reason and is in the process of challenging the vaccine mandate in court.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.