Club statement: Tarryn Thomas

Statement

North Melbourne has received notification from the AFL that Tarryn Thomas has been found guilty of inappropriate behaviour towards a female.

The club accepts the AFL’s findings and endorses their sanction, which will see Thomas suspended from AFL football for 18 matches.

As a result of that finding, and in light of previous indiscretions, the club has informed Thomas that he will no longer be a North Melbourne player.

North Melbourne chief executive Jennifer Watt said Thomas had received strong support from the club to change his behaviour and he was aware that any new indiscretion would threaten his playing future at North Melbourne. 

“The club has provided Tarryn with significant time, resources and support but we’ve now arrived at a point where the individual’s needs don’t match those of the club,” Watt said.

“We know Tarryn needs help – for himself and for the women in his life – but it’s clear the path we’ve taken over the past 12 months hasn’t had the desired impact. 

“To that end, we have made the decision to end Tarryn’s time at North Melbourne.  

“This decision doesn’t come lightly or easily. We brought Tarryn to the club as a teenager and we acknowledge that he has faced complex and challenging circumstances over his life. 

“We hope Tarryn will find the support that is right for him and that he does the work required to be the best version of himself.”

North Melbourne general manager of football Todd Viney said that the club had worked hard to support Thomas but he has now run out of chances.

“Tarryn’s ongoing behaviour was not compatible with the club’s or the team’s values,” Viney said.

“We’ve channelled many hours into helping Tarryn and seeking to rehabilitate him – for his sake and for the sake of those his behaviour has impacted.

“Ultimately, though, it’s our responsibility to put time and effort into the people who are committed to taking the club forward.”

Although Thomas will no longer be a North Melbourne player, the club will continue to make available medical and mental health support to him as he transitions into life away from Arden St.