Barry Cable expelled from AFL Hall of Fame after sexual abuse conviction

Barry Cable, a former midfielder and highly regarded figure in Australian football, has faced the severe consequences of being officially expelled from the Australian Football Hall of Fame and stripped of his legend status due to his conviction for sexually abusing a girl during his playing career 50 years ago, an act that has tarnished his once celebrated legacy.

During the AFL Commission’s meeting on Monday, Richard Goyder, the AFL Commission chair, disclosed that Cable had provided a written response to the Hall of Fame Committee and the AFL Commission, which was taken into consideration as part of the deliberations, highlighting the importance of giving him an opportunity to present his side.

Barry Cable has been removed from the Australian Football Hall of Fame. https://t.co/9bXpQv3K4N

— AFL (@AFL) June 27, 2023

The AFL Commission, fully acknowledging the gravity of Judge Herron’s findings, expressed their deep concern and wholeheartedly supported the victim, commending her bravery for speaking out, along with the other women who exhibited tremendous courage by coming forward during the trial to share their harrowing experiences, recognizing the immense strength it took for them to seek justice through the legal system in Western Australia.

With a heavy heart, Goyder announced that Cable’s induction into the Hall of Fame and his revered legend status would be immediately revoked, serving as a stark reminder of the seriousness of the offense and the AFL’s commitment to addressing and condemning such abhorrent behavior.

In a significant move preceding the verdict, the AFL Commission had already approved a rule change that empowered the Hall of Fame to suspend or revoke membership in cases involving egregious misconduct, reflecting their determination to ensure that the highest standards of integrity and ethics are upheld within the sport and its esteemed hall of recognition.

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