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Hockeyroos investigators swapped out

3 minute read

The independent investigation into claims of bullying within the Hockeyroos' set-up continues, with the two key investigators swapped out.

The team heading up the investigation into allegations of bullying within the Hockeyroos' set-up has been changed to avoid any perceived conflict of interest.

Lawyer Richard Redman, who was a legal counsel for Cronulla Sharks during their supplements saga, and Ernst & Young partner Adam Carrel were originally named to head up the independent investigation.

But the investigation will now be headed up by Bruce Collins QC, Gabrielle Trainor AO and Moya Dodd on behalf of the Australian Sports Commission.

The move was made after concerns were raised about the original investigation team's links to current Hockey Australia staff, including HA chief executive Matt Favier.

Explosive allegations of bullying, body shaming and homophobic behaviour within the Hockeyroos set-up have emerged over the past few months, throwing the elite women's hockey program into chaos.

Past players have come forward slamming the Hockeyroos' hierarchy for the alleged toxic culture.

High-performance director Toni Cumpston copped the most heat, while coach Paul Gaudoin has been criticised for missing meetings with players among other complaints.

HA reached out to current and former players and staff to participate in the inquiry.

The full findings will be kept secret, with only a summary of key themes set to be released publicly.

The original schedule was for findings to be handed down in February, but that could be extended given the change in investigators.

In addition to the independent review, a special complaint process has been established with Sport Integrity Australia to receive and act on complaints concerning conduct in the program.

A large group of Hockeyroos players threatened to go on strike after former captain Georgina Morgan and 2019 goalkeeper of the year Rachael Lynch were controversially left out of the 2021 squad.

"It has always been Hockey Australia's intention that this review be robust, transparent and independent," HA president Melanie Woosnam said of the change in investigators.

"The establishment of a review panel led by Bruce Collins QC makes it clear that these principles are fundamental to the Board."

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