Elijah Taylor axed by Sydney Swans amid off-field troubles

Chris RobinsonThe West Australian
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VideoAlex Witherden says fans will like what they see when the former Lion turns out for West Coast.

Sydney have axed troubled youngster Elijah Taylor, with the club deciding the WA forward’s actions “could not be reconciled”.

The Swans this morning announced they would not be recommitting to Taylor for next season in the wake of the 19-year-old’s off-field issues.

Taylor was stood down by the club in September amid pleading guilty to the aggravated assault of his ex-partner.

The Perth Demons product is due to appear in court for sentencing later this week.

In a statement, the Swans said the situation Elijah and the club had found themselves in was “deeply regrettable”.

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“Elijah has made some very poor decisions which have led us to this point, and he acknowledges that,” Swans football manager Charlie Gardiner said.

“This is certainly not a position we have arrived at lightly, however Elijah’s actions could not be reconciled.

Camera IconElijah Taylor in action earlier this year. Credit: Jono Searle/AFL Photos/via AFL Photos

“It is obviously a sensitive situation and a legal process is still to play out, but in working with Elijah and his management, our collective view was that the right call for both Elijah and the club is to part ways.

“We have also consulted with the AFLPA and appreciate the support James Gallagher and his team has provided during the process.

Camera IconElijah Taylor has been axed by Sydney. Credit: Ryan Pierse/via AFL Photos

“This has been an incredibly difficult situation for Elijah, his family, and those involved.

“We are keen to see Elijah receive ongoing education and support in the hope that he can mature and learn from this experience, make better decisions in the future, and take steps towards rebuilding his career.”

An AFL statement said the league supported the decision and would await the outcome of the court process before considering the matter further and providing comment.

Taylor made four appearances for Sydney in his debut season this year before being suspended by the league for a quarantine breach at the club’s Joondalup Resort accommodation in August.

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