Collingwood star Brayden Maynard’s close friend has been handed a lifetime AFL ban for running onto the field during the Pies’ thrilling comeback victory against North Melbourne. Conor Clarke, also the brother of young Western Bulldogs player Charlie Clarke, was apprehended by stadium security at Marvel Stadium on Sunday. As a consequence of his actions, he now faces the reality of never witnessing live matches involving his brother or Maynard again.
A viral video circulating on social media captured Clarke evading security personnel before slipping and being escorted off the field. Following the game, he even posed for a photo with Maynard, sporting grass stains on his knee from the incident.
In an interview with 7NEWS, Clarke admitted he ran onto the field “just for a laugh.” However, the AFL took a stern stance, announcing on Tuesday a lifetime ban from AFL/AFLW events for Clarke, with the possibility of a review on June 18, 2029.
This incident adds to a series of field invasions in 2024, with the AFL emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards such disruptions. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon reaffirmed the league’s stance earlier this year, highlighting that lifetime bans are the standard consequence for such breaches of conduct.
Maynard, who celebrated his 200th game amidst the comeback victory, expressed mixed emotions post-game, revealing a recent personal loss. His poignant remarks underscored the significance of the game beyond the sport itself, resonating deeply with fans and the AFL community.
