Football
18 June, 2025
Points deduction plea rejected for Thunder
Southern Mallee Thunder have had their plea for an exemption in the deduction of points for Angus Dewar rejected.
The club believed Dewar, who played one game of AFL in 2022 in circumstances that were anything but normal, had been unfairly classified as a player worth maximum points, being six.
He made his debut for the Thunder last week and played again on Saturday in their thrilling win against the Demons.
Dewar played one match for West Coast in the AFL when the club was left scrambling for players during Covid.
He wasn't on the club's list and wasn't even an official AFL player at the time.
Dewar had previously played for Hawthorn, but back in 2011 to 2016.
Player points rules stipulate a player will be designated as six points if they have played AFL in the current or previous three years.
Coach of the Thunder, Kieran Delahunty, said they asked for a reduction of one point for Dewar, considering the circumstances.
The Thunder have 38 points, along with Ararat, while Nhill have 40, Horsham 42 and Warrack 46.
"It got knocked back immediately," Delahunty said.
"Probably the frustrating part was there was no explanation provided but, you know, that's their choice."
Delahunty said the appeal was made under compelling and extreme circumstances.
"West Coast had 14 players out, he wasn't on the list; the last time he was on an AFL list was 2016," he said.
"It was a one-off and he told me he didn't even train with the guys, he just got on a flight, flew to Melbourne and played one game.
"It's an interesting story."
Delahunty said they were lucky to have Dewar at the club this season.
"He's a fantastic leader and a good role model for the kids," he said,
"He's come in with a couple of games and has had experience at AFL and WAFL level and you can tell he has been in that system.
"Angus demands a lot from his teammates."