Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin has lashed out at the “absolute rubbish” claims levelled against him as part of court action by former club president Glenn Bartlett and said the accusations were “irrelevant” to him.
Goodwin used his weekly pre-game press conference to hit back at claims the club had to deal with his behavioural issues before Melbourne’s breakthrough premiership win in 2021.
Melbourne confirmed WorkSafe Victoria is investigating matters at the club from the period during which Bartlett suddenly stepped down as president in April 2021, and was replaced by Kate Roffey.
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The Herald Sun revealed investigators visited the club two weeks ago seeking access to papers relating to Bartlett’s departure.
Bartlett has been at war with the Demons ever since his exit and in court documents revealed this week his partner, Vicki Laspas, made several claims about Goodwin, including unsubstantiated allegations of poor behaviour.
Melbourne released a statement on Wednesday refuting the claims — and Goodwin took his chance to do the same.
“Absolute rubbish that’s been put in there,” he said.
“I just can’t give it the energy people want me to. It’s not something I get too concerned with. I’ve got a footy team to worry about.”
Goodwin said “you’d have to ask them” when questioned why the claims about him would be made.
“It’s disappointing to be brought up but I’ve learned over time what I give energy too,” he said.
“The best thing I give energy to is my players and my team. That’s all I’m really worried about.
“These distractions will occur … it’s sad in a lot of ways. I’ve learned to deal with it … it’s irrelevant to me.
“It’s been no different in the last 48 hours.”
The statement from the board as unequivocal in support of the coach.
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“The board of the Melbourne Football Club unequivocally refute the unsubstantiated, historical and outrageous accusations against Simon Goodwin and other club leaders ,” the statement read.
“The views expressed by Ms Laspas (Bartlett‘s partner, Vicki) are her recollection of historical events and are in direct contrast with the recollections of the Melbourne Football Club Board.
“The board are unanimous and united in their support of Simon Goodwin and are dismayed that he and his family will need to again endure this attempt to undermine his outstanding reputation as a club leader.
“In regard to the WorkSafe complaint made by Ms Laspas, the Club has responded to Worksafe‘s requests for documentation.
“This includes providing documents and proof that contradict and refute claims made by Ms Laspas.
“Over the last two years, Mr Bartlett and his partner Ms Laspas have continued to make accusations about club leaders that are baseless.”
Goodwin has hired a defamation lawyer to act against the claims, including one from Laspas said Bartlett was “dealing with information provided to him concerning Goodwin’s alleged drug use and gambling … among other issues … in about late 2020 and early 2021”.
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