Dear member,

As you will most likely be aware, the club has asked the AFL and the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority to conduct an investigation into supplements given to our players during the 2012 season.

Over the last 48 hours, the club received concerning information that we felt required swift action. As a result, the club contacted the AFL and ASADA to request an independent investigation.

The club is now fully cooperating with ASADA and the AFL in its investigation.

This is very distressing for our club, our executive, our players, our Board and our members.   We believe we have been compliant with the rules and regulations of the AFL and ASADA.

Most importantly, we will be doing everything possible to protect the integrity of our football club and players.

Due to the sensitivity of this issue and the ongoing investigation, the club is not in a position to disclose any further information. It is important the investigation is given the opportunity to take its course.  

We believe that we have acted in a sensible and responsible way to ensure the club gets to the bottom of this matter as quickly as possible.

Out of respect to the process we will not be providing an ongoing commentary through the media in relation to this matter but when further information becomes available we will communicate this with you.

We will now look to continue preparations for our opening NAB Cup game against Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs next Friday night.

As always, I thank you for your continued support of the Essendon Football Club.

David Evans