Essendon's Michael Hurley appeared in Melbourne Magistrates court today on charges resulting from a post-season incident involving a taxi driver late last year.
He pleaded guilty to fare evasion, recklessly causing injury and being drunk in a public place.
The 20-year-old was placed on a two year good behavior bond and ordered to donate $10,000 to charity and undertake a lifestyle program.
No conviction was recorded.
“I want to apologise to Mr Bains, the police, the Essendon Football Club, its sponsors and supporters and anyone else that has been affected by my actions last September,” Hurley said.
“I am very sorry.
“There is no excuse for my behavior - it was totally unacceptable and I have no-one to blame but myself.
“Unfortunately, that night I had too much to drink and I made a serious mistake which I deeply regret.
“I am in no position to lecture anyone but I know it’s easier to learn from other people’s mistakes and hopefully other young people learn from my mistake. Excessive drinking can have serious consequences.
“Over the past eight months I have been working hard to win back people’s trust and respect and I want to thank my family, friends and the football club for their support.”
Hurley has already completed the below club imposed sanctions (previously announced) which were decided after discussions between the Essendon player leadership group, management and the board of directors.
• Suspended for all 2010 NAB Cup or NAB Challenge series games
• Suspended for the first three rounds of the 2010 AFL season.
• Must complete an alcohol counseling course.
• Must be involved in no less than 20 hours additional AFL community programming during the course of the 2010 season.
CEO Ian Robson said that Hurley had never been in trouble before - on or off the field - and that the incident was out of character.
“Michael’s behavior last September was totally unacceptable and it is not what the Essendon Football Club is about,” Robson said.
“Over the past eight months Michael has demonstrated genuine remorse and regret and has shown a strong commitment to learn from his mistake. As a club, we will continue to support him in that journey.”
The club will not be making any further comment on the matter.
