Star reveals what Kangaroos AFLW team thinks of Blakey trade
North Melbourne AFLW star Jasmine Garner has admitted her team has “mixed emotions” about the club’s acquisition of Nick Blakey in the trade period.
The Roos gave up multiple first-round picks to acquire the Sydney defender, months after his club-imposed suspension for breaching club standards, following a late night of partying in Melbourne.
Nick and John Blakey at North Melbourne. North Melbourne
Following the night at the Pullman Hotel, multiple women alleged incidents of sexual assault took place. Victoria Police is actively investigating.
Nine.com.au is not suggesting Blakey or any of the players involved are guilty of sexual assault, only that there is an active police investigation.
Blakey requested a trade from Sydney in the aftermath, citing a falling out with the club over their handling of the situation and his suspension.
North Melbourne emerged as his team of choice. Blakey has history with the club, having initially been eligible to join the Roos under the father-son rule. His dad, John Blakey, played in two premierships for the Kangaroos in the 1990s.
Garner, speaking after the AFLW team’s win over Essendon on Sunday evening, spoke candidly, saying she was not completely comfortable with the decision.
“Yeah, obviously decision’s being made (to recruit Blakey), and it’s probably a decision that’s brought on a bit of mixed emotions,” Garner told reporters.
“It’s something we’re working through as a group, and for us, we’re really backing in the leadership of (club CEO) Jen [Watt] and (president) Sonja [Hood].
“For us as well, like obviously we know we’ve got finals to play. We’ve got a big few weeks to play, so we also want to focus on that and our performance.
“But, it’s definitely a decision that brings a lot of mixed emotions.”
The Age has reported that Hood and Watt spoke with the AFLW team about the club’s decision to recruit Blakey, but the report stated it was not a forum to object to the move.
Garner, arguably the best player in the competition, has helped lead North Melbourne to consecutive AFLW premierships.
The 32-year-old was asked if she felt the playing group had been adequately consulted on the decision.
“Look, it’s probably one that we’re still probably working through,” she said.
“We were spoken to … at the end of the day, I think we’re backing in Jen and Sonja and their leadership.”
North Melbourne star Jasmine Garner in action against Essendon on Sunday. AFL Photos via Getty Images
In a press release following the trade, Blakey apologised for “the events that led up to my exit from Sydney”.
“I know I have to win back the trust of the broader community, football and otherwise,” he said.
Blakey reportedly joined the Kangaroos on an eight-year deal worth well over $1m per season.
News Corp has reported that multiple Roos AFLW players voiced their discontent with the recruitment.
