Carlton Blues player’s future in doubt after he refuses to get COVID-19 vaccination ahead of 2022 AFL season

Mitchell WoodcockThe West Australian
Camera IconA Carlton player’s future is in doubt because he is refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Credit: Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via AFL Photos

A Carlton player’s future is in doubt after it was revealed he has refused to get a COVID-19 vaccination.

According to Channel 7’s Mitch Cleary at least one player from the Blues, who was not named, is refusing to get the jab despite the AFL releasing it’s vaccination policy last month.

According to the Victorian Government’s Authorised Worker Vaccination Mandate, all players and football program staff must have had their first dose by October 22 and be fully vaccinated by November 26.

Under the AFL’s policy, players that do not get the vaccination will not be able to go to the club to train or play unless they have an approved medical exemption.

The policy also outlines that clubs can terminate the player’s contract with the agreement of the player, can be put on the inactive player list and will be paid the CBA minimum base salary.

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They can also be left on the playing list and paid no less than 25 per cent of the CBA minimum base salary.

Carlton and St Kilda are the only two clubs not to comment on whether all their AFL players would be vaccinated.

The Blues have confirmed though all their AFLW players had received one dose, according to Cleary.

It comes as dual Adelaide AFLW premiership player Deni Varnhagen and the Crows mutually agreed to put her on the inactive list for the upcoming season because she refuses to get the COVID-19 jab.

All AFLW players and staff must receive their first vaccination by November 19 and be fully vaccinated by December 17.

Adelaide chief executive Tim Silvers said the decision was inevitable given her stance.

“The AFL’s initial vaccination deadline is still a fortnight away however, Deni has made it well known she is against vaccination in this instance,” he said.

“We have a team-first approach and the timing of this decision has been made in the best interests of the team and its preparation for the upcoming season.

“Our Club supports the League’s policy and we strongly encourage people to be vaccinated for the benefit of community health and safety.

“We would like to acknowledge and thank Deni for the significant contribution she has made to our women’s program over the past five seasons.”

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