'It's really disappointing': Petracca's heartfelt message to disgraced teammate
Updated . First published at
Melbourne star Christian Petracca has thrown his support behind disgraced former Demons teammate Joel Smith.
The 28-year-old Smith was hit with a four year ban for breaching anti-doping rules but Petracca was sending positive vibes in an interview with 9News.
"My heart goes out to him," Petracca said.
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Joel Smith and Christian Petracca of the Demons sing. Getty
"Obviously, it's really disappointing. But, you know, I wish him and his family nothing but the best."
Smith was found guilty of a range of drug-related offences, including the presence and possession of cocaine as well as the trafficking of cocaine, between 2020-23.
In an in-competition test following Melbourne's clash in round 23 of the 2023 season, cocaine was detected in Smith's system.
Meanwhile, Petracca expressed optimism that the Demons can fix the cultural issues that plagued the club in 2024.
Melbourne's culture has repeatedly been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons over the last year, reportedly leaving Petracca disgruntled and wanting out.
"I mean, we're in November so we've got plenty of time," he said.
"There's still five months to round one and we're really looking forward to day one of preseason. Excited to see my teammates again."
