Hawthorn captain James Sicily has apologised after saying he “couldn’t imagine” living in Tasmania, as an announcement on the 19th AFL club looms.
It’s expected the federal government will on Saturday confirm funding for a new Hobart stadium, which is viewed as the last hurdle before Tasmania is granted an AFL license.
On Wednesday, Sicily was asked on radio about the state’s ability to lure players to live and play footy there.
Watch every match of every round of the 2023 Toyota AFL Premiership Season LIVE on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
“I think so, particularly as a young guy, because there’s not much happening down there, it could be difficult,” Sicily told RSN.
“I couldn’t imagine myself living there. It would be hard.”
The comments saw the Hawks skipper come in for criticism, given his club earns millions each year from the state via a sponsorship deal, and has played several games each season in Launceston for many years.
The loudest came from cricketer and former Australian T20 captain Matthew Wade.
He took to Instagram posting: “Tassie people have been fighting years for the chance to get an AFL team. Comments like this do not help us working towards our chance at showing just how good our little state is and will be with our own team.
“@jsicily6 Whenever you want the door is open to come down and I can show you around our boring island if you like!”
Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine also reacted negatively, responding to a Fox Footy tweet about Sicily’s comments with a facepalm emoji.
On Wednesday night Sicily shared an apology on social media and explained further what he meant.
“I want to apologise to anyone I have offended or upset about my comments on Tasmania today,” he wrote.
“The comments I made on RSN were flippant, and do not reflect my views of Tasmania.
“What I said related to my personal situation, that throughout my career, my attachment to Melbourne would have made it hard to live in Tassie full time.
“That’s not to say there are not many AFL footballers who would enjoy living there.
“I love coming down to Tassie to stay and play, I visit Tassie yearly outside of football to enjoy its golf courses and food. I’m proud of our long term relationship with the state and I continue to support Tasmania getting its own team. (thumbs up emoji)”
