Elijah Taylor banned from AFL lists for 12 months, but league refuses to close door on youngster
Former Sydney youngster Elijah Taylor has been banned from being listed at any AFL club for the duration of the 2021 season after pleading guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
Taylor, who was sacked by the Swans last November after the Magistrates Court of Western Australia handed down its verdict, will now have to wait until 2022 if he is to make it back onto an AFL list.
The AFL confirmed the sanctions handed down to the 19-year-old in a statement on Friday evening.
In addition to being banned from being listed through the 2021 season, Taylor has also been banned from all state and community competitions until June 1, but will be permitted to play at a reserve level from May 15.
If Taylor is to make an AFL comeback, he will have to participate in and complete an approved educational and monitoring program.
Elijah Taylor is flanked by reporters and cameramen as he leaves court late last year Getty
While an AFL return remains bleak at this stage, the league has not completely closed its doors on the young forward.
"Violence against women in any form is abhorrent and we strongly condemn it," AFL General Counsel Andrew Dillon said in a statement.
"Our view is clear and unequivocal – violence against women is never okay in any circumstance – ever."
"The sanctions imposed by the AFL reflect the seriousness of Mr Taylor's breach of the AFL Rules and values.
"There is a pathway for Mr Taylor's return to football in time, reflecting his contrition and the ongoing positive effects of his participation in a football program".
