Damien Hardwick explodes at betting probe into Gold Coast Suns
Damien Hardwick has bristled at questions from a journalist probing links between a Gold Coast staffer and the gambling industry.
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At a press conference on Thursday, the Suns coach was repeatedly asked about team manager Mark Opie — with a Crikey report revealing he is a co-founder of betting company Okebet.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon confirmed on Monday that Opie is currently subject to an AFL integrity unit investigation.
When asked a series of different questions by a reporter about Opie, Hardwick deflected criticism back toward the AFL.
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«Well, at the end of the day, is it a good look for the AFL to be sponsored by Sportsbet? All these sorts of organisations?» Hardwick said.
«You want to start talking about conflict in AFL? I’m just here to talk about footy.»
After more questions, Hardwick continued: «I’ve answered the question.
«At the end of the day he’s (Opie) there to perform a role, and he does that role with our football club.
«Conflicts of interest within AFL circles are prevalent everywhere, as we’re seeing at the moment, so that will get dealt with in due course.»
There have been several recent high-profile conflict of interest cases in recent weeks — starting with umpire Nick Foot standing down as a Sportsbet racing analyst.
Former AFL stars Luke Hodge and Kane Cornes also resigned from their position as All-Australian team selectors due to roles with betting organisations.
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