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Will Sydney Swans fans stage walk out ahead of men's match in historic double-header?

On Sunday, August 23, 2026, the Sydney Swans host a historic double-header at the SCG after suspending five players—Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice, and James Jordon—for the remainder of the 2026 AFL season.
Victoria Police are investigating an alleged sexual assault at the Pullman Hotel involving the suspended players, collectively known as the 'Hotel Five.' Police have not made arrests or laid charges.
Supporters are divided over the scandal; some threaten to boycott the men's game while many aim to bolster the Sydney Swans AFLW team. Sentiment has shifted from anger to a desire to support the club's remaining 23 players.
Sydney Swans AFLW captain Lucy McEvoy and men's captain Callum Mills urged fans to stay united, with McEvoy expressing she was 'incredibly disappointed' with the five men but encouraging attendance to support the team.
The women's side faces Essendon at 12:30pm, followed by the men's clash with North Melbourne at 3:20pm. This historic match day marks a defining moment for how the club's supporter base responds to one of its most turbulent weeks.

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Fan’s banner removed by SCG security at Sydney Swans game

Supporters came out in droves to send a message at the AFLW-AFL double-header, but one banner was taken down after ‘barely three minutes’.

4 hours ago·Australia

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News

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Eerie Swans scene before SCG blockbuster as star makes powerful AFLW statement

Sydney Swans fans have voted with their feet on one of the biggest days in the history of the embattled club.

6 hours ago·Surry Hills, Australia

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ABC Australia

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Threats of SCG walkouts as Swans men's and women's teams take the field

Sydney's AFLW team takes the field in the first game of a double-header, with some fans threatening to walk out on the following men's game. Follow live.

7 hours ago·Ultimo, Australia

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PerthNow

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The West Australian

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Sydney Swans fans threaten SCG walkout over hotel scandal

Sydney Swans fans are preparing for an emotionally charged afternoon at the SCG, with some supporters still considering walking out after the AFLW side’s historic clash before the men’s team takes the field.

8 hours ago·Osborne Park, Australia

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Sporting News

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Will Sydney Swans fans stage walk out ahead of men's match in historic double-header?

There continue to be reports furious Sydney Swans fans could stage a walk-out protest ahead of the men’s game in Sunday’s historic AFLW/AFL double header at the SCG.

8 hours ago·Charlotte, United States

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Sydney Morning Herald

+3 Reposted by 3 other sources

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‘Don’t abandon the club’: Swans fans ready to show support after week of turmoil

It has been a confronting week for Sydney fans. But many are preparing to turn out at the SCG for Sunday’s double-header to support the club – and especially the AFLW team.

9 hours ago·North Sydney, Australia

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