The hearing into the alleged breach of the AFL Anti-Doping Code by 34 current and former AFL players 

and one support person formerly employed by Essendon Football Club commenced today before the AFL 

Anti-Doping Tribunal at the Victorian County Court.  

Following discussion between the parties and the Tribunal panel on various procedural matters, 

Mr Holmes QC commenced his opening submissions on behalf of ASADA. 

Given the complexity of the matter and the volume of material being relied upon by ASADA, it is expected 

that the opening submissions of ASADA will continue on Thursday and Friday when the hearing resumes.