What were the Giants players thinking?

That’s the basic question anyone with even vague knowledge of what occurred at the club’s strange Wacky Wednesday function is asking.

The AFL had to act when the investigation revealed footage of a couple of skits most people would consider troubling.

Their decision to impose suspensions has upset the club and the players who are arguing a fine is more appropriate.

The players also argue that due process is not being followed in determining such sanctions and the system needs to change so that they have representation and penalties are not applied without an accompanying rationale.

That’s all fine. Argue away. Players should be allowed to provide context and push the AFL to improve their processes if they think that’s warranted.

But no one should think for a second the AFL is not entitled to consider sanctions for the individuals or the club, and apply them without apology.

These are professional male footballers who represent the game, their club, sponsors and fans. They are paid well, educated on a range of issues from performance enhancing drugs to stoppages to media training to gender-based violence to help them make good decisions.

They are in a club with a men’s and women’s football........

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