Lion’s lifeline: Cameron escapes with fine as AFL Tribunal notes ‘a rare case’

Cameron’s advocate, Adrian Anderson, turned to mathematics to explain how rare it was for a player to have played more than 200 matches before facing suspension. Anderson said less than one per cent of AFL players reached that level of experience and about half of them already have a ban of one or more matches by that point.

Character references, including one from former Adelaide and Carlton champion Eddie Betts, also worked in Cameron’s favour.

They helped his case, Gleeson said.

“He (Cameron) is a role model with an impressive AFL career, that is something for those he connects with to aspire to,” said Gleeson.

“These matters are not irrelevant when we come to exercise our discretion in respect to a first suspendible offence, where no injury was suffered, and it was intentional nor grossly negligent.

“Exceptional or compelling means what it says.

“It will be a rare case where all of the circumstances combine to result in an exercise of discretion to downgrade a sanction. This is such a case.”

During his evidence, Cameron tried to downplay the extent of his actions in seeking the initial reduction from medium to low impact. That reclassification would have resulted in a fine for him, instead of relying on leniency from the tribunal.

“I felt he was fighting against the tackle. I’ve turned to my right … falling back with momentum,” Cameron said.

“I felt I didn’t have control once I was falling back … Jake weighs 94, 95 kilos. I don’t think there was enough force for him to snap his head like that off the ground.

“It’s hard to slow momentum when you’re both falling down. I don’t agree with it being medium impact. I felt there was enough for him to brace before his head hit the ground.”

The exact figure of Cameron’s fine is still being determined.

Demon van Rooyen signs on for four more

AAP

Melbourne fan favourite Jacob van Rooyen has signed a four-year contract extension with the AFL club.

The 21-year-old, who was already locked in for next season, agreed to terms on Tuesday, with the new deal taking his tenure through until at least the end of 2029.

The extension follows an impressive three years for the key forward, who won a VFL premiership in his first season at the club, and also made an immediate impression at senior level.

The 194cm van Rooyen was last year named best young player at Melbourne’s best and fairest awards ceremony.

Originally from Perth, van Rooyen became a Demon when he was taken at pick No.19 in the 2021 national draft.

After making his debut in 2022, van Rooyen quickly established himself as a cult hero, with Demon fans chanting “Roo” when he touches the ball.

He has played 26 games for the Demons, kicking 36 goals along the way.

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Melbourne list manager Tim Lamb said the contract extension was great news for the red and blue.

“Jacob has applied himself terrifically since arriving at the club, and we are continually impressed by his attitude and eagerness to learn,” Lamb said.

“He is a much-loved character, both within the club and among our members and supporters, and at just 21 years old has an exciting future ahead.”

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