Casey McElroy has had her suspension for playing unregistered in a men's football match reduced from six matches to four.
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McElroy played for the Padthaway men's team on Saturday May 25, breaching rules that prevented females from playing men's football.
Originally she was suspended from playing in the Limestone Coast Women's Football League, where she has played for the past two seasons, for six matches.
Statement in full from SANFL:
Limestone Coast Women's Football League (LCWFL) player Casey McElroy has received a four-match penalty following an independent Tribunal hearing held Tuesday, June 18 at Adelaide Oval.
The Tribunal heard a charge against McElroy that alleged she breached regulations and policies by playing in a Men's Reserves grade match in the Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara Football League (KNTFL) on Saturday, May 25.
McElroy had the option to accept a six-match sanction following an investigation by SANFL but elected to be heard before the independent Tribunal.
After hearing submissions from both sides, the Tribunal found that Ms McElroy breached rules and regulations by playing as an unregistered and ineligible player.
In delivering the sanction, Tribunal Chair Ian White described the situation as unprecedented.
Mr White also noted that, while Ms McElroy is an exceptional and passionate footballer and a dedicated member of her local community and football club, a four match-penalty was appropriate in the circumstances and to deter other South Australian clubs and players from unregistered participation.
