One-Eyed Richmond Forum
Football => Richmond Rant => Topic started by: Go Richo 12 on January 01, 2025, 07:37:40 PM
-
At Mulwala, the place is notorious for fights.
https://7news.com.au/sport/afl/richmond-star-noah-balta-arrested-and-charged-with-assault-after-late-night-incident-c-17255215?utm_campaign=7sport&utm_content=7NEWS+Adelaide,7NEWS+Australia,7NEWS+Brisbane,7NEWS+Melbourne,7NEWS+Perth,7NEWS+Sydney&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3TfGVk7IlaOTDwZ_se3lWo8TDFvDQ6_9Ui6B55EZFPLZR1rOcRXzLhmLE_aem_SrMEPp3KcUSSc6QlJvTDSA#cgo0ebq0y4540iqwfda8bgxlgkj3ruinr
-
Mitch Cleary's report on 7news tonight:
Watch: https://x.com/7NewsMelbourne/status/1874351703287607403
-
At Mulwala, the place is notorious for fights.
https://7news.com.au/sport/afl/richmond-star-noah-balta-arrested-and-charged-with-assault-after-late-night-incident-c-17255215?utm_campaign=7sport&utm_content=7NEWS+Adelaide,7NEWS+Australia,7NEWS+Brisbane,7NEWS+Melbourne,7NEWS+Perth,7NEWS+Sydney&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3TfGVk7IlaOTDwZ_se3lWo8TDFvDQ6_9Ui6B55EZFPLZR1rOcRXzLhmLE_aem_SrMEPp3KcUSSc6QlJvTDSA#cgo0ebq0y4540iqwfda8bgxlgkj3ruinr
Richmond star Noah Balta arrested and charged with assault after late-night incident
By Ben Sutton
7news
1 Jan 2025
Richmond premiership star Noah Balta has been charged with assault after an alleged late-night incident in New South Wales.
Police were called to a sports club in Mulwala, near the border of Victoria and New South Wales, about 12.30am on Monday night.
7NEWS chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary revealed details of the incident that ended up with another man taken to hospital.
“NSW Police have just confirmed that Balta has been charged with assault over an alleged incident that led to another male being taken to hospital for a laceration to his head,” Cleary said.
“Balta then handed himself into police at the Mulwala Police station just before lunchtime on Tuesday.
“It’s understood Balta had been preparing to celebrate the New Year with family and friends.
“He has been given a conditional bail - to appear before Corowa Local Court on January 30 - right in the middle of the Tigers pre-season training.”
Police confirmed the victim was taken to hospital with a laceration to his head.
Richmond made the AFL aware of the incident, but will make no further comment.
The AFL’s integrity unit have been made aware of the incident and are expected to conduct their own investigation, but will leave in hands of police for now.
The incident comes just a few months after Balta signed a massive seven-year contract extension that locks him in at Richmond until the end of 2032.
The swingman, who has played 104 career games, including the 2020 premiership, is a crucial cog of the Tigers’ rebuild.
-
Well that starts the year off on the right foot. Probably presages things to come, maybe we will see a few fisticuffs during the year on the field too, hopefully.
-
It’s understood Balta handed himself into Mulwala Police just before lunchtime yesterday.
Given how fresh it is + a leave period for staff, Richmond will shortly work through next steps and whether Balta will return to pre-season training before his court date on January 30.
https://x.com/cleary_mitch/status/1874372139601846590
-
Unlike the Prestia/Lynch non-story this one looks like trouble
-
Not quite sure how one is arrested when they've hand themselves into police
-
If he's in the wrong a very lengthy club imposed suspension is probably on the cards.
-
If he's in the wrong a very lengthy club imposed suspension is probably on the cards.
Suspend the only good key defender on the list. Bold move
Play on
-
His off field intelligence actually matches his on field intelligence. :shh
-
If he's in the wrong a very lengthy club imposed suspension is probably on the cards.
Suspend the only good key defender on the list. Bold move
Play on
Opens up a spot for a kid, gives him time to well & truly get over any injury niggles, guarantees first pick in the MSD and good for our draft hand - what's not to like? #silverlinings :shh
-
When the aggressor is targeting you how do you walk away? :banghead
Biggest issue will be the media hyperventilation that follows. :shh
-
Don’t know the story but if he’s been charged it must be some what serious.
Pretty disappointing from a bloke who’s just signed for 7 years and is meant to be a leader of our club.
-
Sometimes you can get in trouble and you are just a victim of circumstance. AFL players become targets of idiots, Noah is a great bloke, hope it all works out OK.
-
Someone probably took a shot at him
-
Didn’t Marlion get charged?
How long was he suspended?
-
Didn’t Marlion get charged?
How long was he suspended?
He pleaded not guilty and IIRC though he did miss matches he wasn't officially stood down for any matches due to the charges. If Balta does likewise he shouldn't be either, on the other hand if does cop to the charges then I'd say he will face a suspension. :shh
-
I reckon it will be a tough charge to prove if there’s no real evidence ie phone. Therefore, likely that this is another storm in a teacup
-
sounds like more bs to me.
Play on.
-
DEVELOPING: The Tigers have made a call on a star defender in trouble with the law. Chief Football Reporter @cleary_mitch has the exclusive details. h#7NEWS
VIDEO: https://x.com/7NewsMelbourne/status/1876897589062455466
-----------------
Richmond make call on Noah Balta after AFL premiership player’s assault charge
By Glenn Valencich
7news
8 Jan 2025
Richmond have opted against banishing Noah Balta from pre-season training following his assault charge last week, 7NEWS chief football reporter Mitch Cleary has revealed.
The AFL premiership player handed himself into NSW Police following an alleged incident that led to another man being taken to hospital for a cut to his head.
Balta was charged and given conditional bail, to appear before Corowa Local Court on January 30 — right in the middle of the Tigers’ pre-season program.
“Richmond had been waiting up whether to allow the premiership defender to return to Punt Road in the short term,” Cleary said on 7NEWS Melbourne.
“But he has been given the green light and will be with teammates when they’re back at training in the coming days.
“While he is permitted back the Tigers will work through any internal sanctions over the next 48 hours.”
The AFL integrity unit will undergo its own enquiries after the court proceedings to determine if Balta should be made available for Round 1 in March.
https://7news.com.au/sport/afl/richmond-make-call-on-noah-balta-after-afl-premiership-players-assault-charge-c-17324806
-
AFL to investigate alleged incident involving Tigers’ flag star
The AFL will investigate an incident that has resulted in assault charges against Richmond defender Noah Balta as he prepares to join his teammates on their return from pre-season training.
Paywall: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/afl-to-investigate-richmonds-noah-balta-after-incident-involving-tigers-flag-star-ends-in-charge/news-story/81791c4ae6a9735430cc4056b552b7e9
-
AFL can FO.
It's a police matter.
-
It could be as simple as a scuffle, everyone goes home, Noah finds out the guy is in hospital the next day so goes into the cop shop.
Who knows the guy could have fallen over.
The AFL should stay right out of it.
-
Pathetic AFL investigate the corruption of that umpire what's happened there ? or the Essendon drug scandal covered up by senior administration.
-
AFL can FO.
It's a police matter.
Absolutely, he's been charged and it will be dealt with by the Police
-
4 weeks from the club.
Good strong statement imo because all these young blokes have to learn from this. poo will happen but you have to be smart and not get caught up in it.
-
:lol Give me a break.
Absolute garbage. Our ceo is the one who is weak as pee. Yze as well which is where this likely came from.
We need a coach who stands up to the afl not one who bows down and sucks up to them.
Load of horse poo.
-
Without knowing the details it's hard to say too much.
If he didn't start the scuffle then I'm appalled at the decision.
-
4 weeks :lol :lol :lol
Tanking early
-
He must have done something that the clubs knows about IMO.
-
Club Statement: Noah Balta
By Richmond Media
9 Jan 2025
Richmond has suspended Noah Balta following an off-season incident that has led to him being charged with assault.
Balta will miss the first four matches of the 2025 AFL season.
He will also miss both pre-season matches, complete education programming and undertake counselling.
Balta will continue to train at the Club during this period.
“Noah deeply regrets being involved in the incident. He has assisted the NSW Police in their investigation and he is keen to have the matter concluded as soon as possible. While the outcome of the investigation and the charge will be a matter for the Police and the Courts, both Noah and the Club accept that players can't put themselves in these situations,” Richmond CEO Shane Dunne said.
“After thorough consideration - which included discussions with the player leadership group - we arrived at a decision that reflects the seriousness of the incident and at the same time will help Noah address this behaviour.
“The Club will continue to support him through this period and our collective hope, and expectation, is that we will see the best of Noah on and off the field from this point on.”
https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/1706701/club-statement-noah-balta
-
Bit harsh for me
-
Ridiculous. And totally AFL driven. We’ve lost our balls since Benny left
Tyler Young probably baited him
-
Ridiculous. And totally AFL driven. We’ve lost our balls since Benny left
Tyler Young probably baited him
Looking at it from a different angle. Don't believe it is AFL driven at all but the Club acting and dishing out a punishment meaning the AFL really can't come in over the top and dish what they feel like to try and make one of their moral statements
He must have done something that the clubs knows about IMO.
Maybe it's just me but my first thought was Noah's obviously told them today exactly what's happened and the Club led by the senior leaders (players in particular) have acted and made their decision based on that. Simplistic? Perhaps but based on what's happened today seems logical
It's easy to pot the CEO, the coach but in 3 weeks we will know alot more when he faces court
4 weeks from the club.
Good strong statement imo because all these young blokes have to learn from this. poo will happen but you have to be smart and not get caught up in it.
Tend to agree with this, people last year lamented how standards throughout the entire Club had dropped. Maybe with so many young blokes coming through this is the reset to standards that is needed
FWIW my personal view is the penalty is too harsh but it is what it is
-
2 not enough.
3 ok IMO.
4 a strong message.
-
What happens if he fronts court and gets off lol 😂
Or they slap him with 3.5 mins community service?
It’s absurd how the AFL (and the clubs) have become judge jury and executioner on everything.
Surely he has the due process of innocent until proven guilty? With the AFL it’s guilty until proven innocent (unless it suits them)
-
I agree 100% Damo and would add if we were a legitimate top 4 chance and not having one eye on another spoon we might in fact take a different approach.
Still think it’s weak as pee
-
What happens if he fronts court and gets off lol 😂
Or they slap him with 3.5 mins community service?
It’s absurd how the AFL (and the clubs) have become judge jury and executioner on everything.
Surely he has the due process of innocent until proven guilty? With the AFL it’s guilty until proven innocent (unless it suits them)
just because you are found not guilty, it doesnt mean you didnt do it
-
What happens if he fronts court and gets off lol 😂
Or they slap him with 3.5 mins community service?
It’s absurd how the AFL (and the clubs) have become judge jury and executioner on everything.
Surely he has the due process of innocent until proven guilty? With the AFL it’s guilty until proven innocent (unless it suits them)
Unless he's said to the Club he's in deep doo doos ;D
-
You can't go around hitting blokes.
The club would have enough detail to make a decision you would hope.
I support the sanction, well done to the club.
-
It's a hoax...(https://2img.net/i/fa/i/smiles/icon_lol.gif)
-
Perfect start to the season….
-
I don’t understand how anyone could have a problem with this.
Yes it’s harsh but we have to set the tone for all these 18 year olds.
It’s not about whether Balta is guilty or not (looks like hey actually may be)
It’s about allowing yourself to be in those positions, great lesson for the young blokes at Baltas expense and I’m 100% sure he would know that
-
I think if it was self defence or some other faultless incident the club would have done nothing.
To come out with 4 weeks, he has clearly IMO gone to the club and told them he's punched someone's lights out and they've probably advised him to turn himself into the police while they decide a ban.
-
I think if it was self defence or some other faultless incident the club would have done nothing.
To come out with 4 weeks, he has clearly IMO gone to the club and told them he's punched someone's lights out and they've probably advised him to turn himself into the police while they decide a ban.
Yep.
-
That club statement is exactly what I thought it would be. Obviously can’t comment on the incident as it’s a police matter, but it was always gonna be at the very least a “shouldn’t have put himself” in that situation sanction.
-
I feel as though the wind has been taken out of the club's sails with this incident and suspension.
-
Visited my brother in Mulwala today for a family lunch.
He's lived in Mul for about 40 or 50 years, since before the Ski Club was built.
He's a regular there and has mates who work there including in management.
When I asked about this he told me the following:
On the tiled deck outside (lakeside) a couple ordered a pizza and had it delivered to their table.
Balta's brother then hassled them to give him a piece of their pizza.
The bloke got fed up in the finish and pushed the brother away.
Balta then stepped in and belted the pizza man.
He then followed up with a couple more shots while the guy was on the ground.
It's been reported that the guy was treated in hospital for "lacerations to the head". We will find out in court what type of lacerations and the cause (the initial punch, hitting the ground from that or the follow up punches).
Regardless this is not likely to result in a dismissal of charges, the police would seem likely to follow through to trial and verdict.
My brother also said there would be plenty of witnesses and a lot of CCTV footage. He said there was CCTV "everywhere".
I think he told me previously that the club has a lot of CCTV as they were getting suit threats from customers who had done the wrong thing and then got into trouble and this allowed them to get a lot of those nuisance suits against the club or its employees dismissed. Youngish crowd, drunk and loud rock music is the norm at the Ski Club.
In a lot of these cases it is usually a member of the star player's group who seem to feel they are as entitled as the star and create problems with their feeling of entitlement.
The player is then the one to bear the cost - in Balta's case up around $250,000 for loss of 4 games and bonuses.
BTW I trust my brother's account as while it is second-hand gossip it would come informally from club management
-
There is a reason why "details" of what allegedly took place are not out in public domain....
Talk about prejudicing someone's case ::)
-
There is a reason why "details" of what allegedly took place are not out in public domain....
Talk about prejudicing someone's case ::)
Reminds me a lot of the Dusty chopstick incident
Judging things without the facts is never a good idea
Just ask KB
-
Not just KB but a few on here. :shh
If this was balta in 2019 he would never have been suspended straight away. Club has lost its way since Benny left. I mean when Bennys mind left for tassy.
These times I wish we had the old Dimma back. No way this would be handled like this under him
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
Exactly.
Club isn't being woke.
They're just being proactive and clearly know more than we do.
-
There is a reason why "details" of what allegedly took place are not out in public domain....
Talk about prejudicing someone's case ::)
This is an internet forum.
As such there is a lot of gossip about incidents, much of it either plain wrong or misinformed.
"not out in the public domain". I would bet that every resident of Mulwala/Yarrawonga knows the full story of what happened, particularly since it has been reported in the national media.
I presume the court case will include CCTV footage and other evidence, notably from witnesses.
What I have posted to this forum will NOT be part of the case and since it will not be a jury case I don't think there is any relevant "prejudice".
There have been multiple postings here that voiced the idea that Balta and his brother were totally innocent and had been attacked.
That is prejudice based on the hope that one of our players was not at fault and nothing else.
As a result I posted what I believe to be the truth based on an informed source.
Your attack on me for my "prejudice" seems to me to be the pot calling the kettle black.
-
There is a reason why "details" of what allegedly took place are not out in public domain....
Talk about prejudicing someone's case ::)
This is an internet forum.
As such there is a lot of gossip about incidents, much of it either plain wrong or misinformed.
"not out in the public domain". I would bet that every resident of Mulwala/Yarrawonga knows the full story of what happened, particularly since it has been reported in the national media.
I presume the court case will include CCTV footage and other evidence, notably from witnesses.
What I have posted to this forum will NOT be part of the case and since it will not be a jury case I don't think there is any relevant "prejudice".
There have been multiple postings here that voiced the idea that Balta and his brother were totally innocent and had been attacked.
That is prejudice based on the hope that one of our players was not at fault and nothing else.
As a result I posted what I believe to be the truth based on an informed source.
Your attack on me for my "prejudice" seems to me to be the pot calling the kettle black.
FWIW I have not seen one news article in print or on electronic media detailing what you have. Please feel free to post any link to what you've claimed happened in
We have also been very consistent removing posts that put that this site at risk of legal action. That is unsubstantiated rumours. At this time your post is borderline at needing to be removed. Just waiting on some legal feedback
You say the details have been bounded around in "national media". Outside of him being charged and conditionally bailed there isn't any details. Yes, Im sure everyone in Mulwala and Yarrawonga have heard versions of what happened, part and parcel of country towns.
I did not attack you, not even close. Just gave an opinion. In your world if that's an attack then sorry, but that's on you not me..
-
There is a reason why "details" of what allegedly took place are not out in public domain....
Talk about prejudicing someone's case ::)
This is an internet forum.
As such there is a lot of gossip about incidents, much of it either plain wrong or misinformed.
"not out in the public domain". I would bet that every resident of Mulwala/Yarrawonga knows the full story of what happened, particularly since it has been reported in the national media.
I presume the court case will include CCTV footage and other evidence, notably from witnesses.
What I have posted to this forum will NOT be part of the case and since it will not be a jury case I don't think there is any relevant "prejudice".
There have been multiple postings here that voiced the idea that Balta and his brother were totally innocent and had been attacked.
That is prejudice based on the hope that one of our players was not at fault and nothing else.
As a result I posted what I believe to be the truth based on an informed source.
Your attack on me for my "prejudice" seems to me to be the pot calling the kettle black.
You would loose that bet.
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
Exactly.
Club isn't being woke.
They're just being proactive and clearly know more than we do.
If they know something, just declare it. It’s woke to just suspend him with being more specific. FFS, if he’s done the wrong thing, declare it an announce he plans to plead guilty. Otherwise, it’s just jumping at shadows which is weak, insipid leadership
-
If a player commits a criminal offence & admits it to the club because he knows he is guilty, is it weak or woke of the club to suspend that player?
In any other world the club would be seen to be strong & setting an example to all of its players (especially the young blokes) to give that player his right whack. What else should the club do - pretend it didn't happen because its a top player involved?
We aren't talking about breaking the rules of kiss chasey here, or breaking wind in church, we are talking about a potentially serious criminal offence ...
-
If RFC did not act in this world of where any social issue and social engineering is seen as more important than football, then the AFL with the media camp followers assisting will issue the penalty, which would likely be a lot more severe.
Just got to take your meds sometimes.
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
Exactly.
Club isn't being woke.
They're just being proactive and clearly know more than we do.
If they know something, just declare it. It’s woke to just suspend him with being more specific. FFS, if he’s done the wrong thing, declare it an announce he plans to plead guilty. Otherwise, it’s just jumping at shadows which is weak, insipid leadership
Why the stuff would they declare what they know when there's a police investigation in process?
-
There is a reason why "details" of what allegedly took place are not out in public domain....
Talk about prejudicing someone's case ::)
This is an internet forum.
As such there is a lot of gossip about incidents, much of it either plain wrong or misinformed.
"not out in the public domain". I would bet that every resident of Mulwala/Yarrawonga knows the full story of what happened, particularly since it has been reported in the national media.
I presume the court case will include CCTV footage and other evidence, notably from witnesses.
What I have posted to this forum will NOT be part of the case and since it will not be a jury case I don't think there is any relevant "prejudice".
There have been multiple postings here that voiced the idea that Balta and his brother were totally innocent and had been attacked.
That is prejudice based on the hope that one of our players was not at fault and nothing else.
As a result I posted what I believe to be the truth based on an informed source.
Your attack on me for my "prejudice" seems to me to be the pot calling the kettle black.
You would loose that bet.
Are they loose in Mulwala?
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
Exactly.
Club isn't being woke.
They're just being proactive and clearly know more than we do.
If they know something, just declare it. It’s woke to just suspend him with being more specific. FFS, if he’s done the wrong thing, declare it an announce he plans to plead guilty. Otherwise, it’s just jumping at shadows which is weak, insipid leadership
Why the stuff would they declare what they know when there's a police investigation in process?
Well why TF would they suspend him when the rationale for that suspension cannot be explained to members?
Cart before horse Andy. Don’t fall for the woke option which is the other way around.
-
While I get your point HRT
Would you rather the AFL dish out a penalty, which I've got no doubt would be harsher than what the Club has issued?
Not sure what you want the Club to declare when Balta hasn't had his day in court
They gave their reasons as to why he's been suspended by the Club, I get you don't like or agree with their reason but they have given a reason
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
Exactly.
Club isn't being woke.
They're just being proactive and clearly know more than we do.
If they know something, just declare it. It’s woke to just suspend him with being more specific. FFS, if he’s done the wrong thing, declare it an announce he plans to plead guilty. Otherwise, it’s just jumping at shadows which is weak, insipid leadership
Why the stuff would they declare what they know when there's a police investigation in process?
Well why TF would they suspend him when the rationale for that suspension cannot be explained to members?
Cart before horse Andy. Don’t fall for the woke option which is the other way around.
Why are you carrying on like the club is at fault here?
Noah clearly stuffed up and forced the club into an awkward position.
On a side note, “woke” has to be the most lazy, redundant and overused word going around.
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
Exactly.
Club isn't being woke.
They're just being proactive and clearly know more than we do.
If they know something, just declare it. It’s woke to just suspend him with being more specific. FFS, if he’s done the wrong thing, declare it an announce he plans to plead guilty. Otherwise, it’s just jumping at shadows which is weak, insipid leadership
Why the stuff would they declare what they know when there's a police investigation in process?
Well why TF would they suspend him when the rationale for that suspension cannot be explained to members?
Cart before horse Andy. Don’t fall for the woke option which is the other way around.
Because they don't owe you an explanation when they fart.
$50 says when it's all said and done he will be found to have assaulted someone and the club acted on this but chose not to tell the holier than thou members whilst a police investigation was ongoing and balta due to face court.
-
What happened to innocent until proven otherwise?
I think it’s time clubs called the AFL’s bluff but standing firm on player rights until these things play out.
Charge him and have the trial. Let the thing play out.
Reading between the lines here, but it seems to me like Balta has come clean and admitted he did something wrong and the club gets the penalty out of the way ASAP instead of having it dragged out.
Yahuh
Exactly.
Club isn't being woke.
They're just being proactive and clearly know more than we do.
If they know something, just declare it. It’s woke to just suspend him with being more specific. FFS, if he’s done the wrong thing, declare it an announce he plans to plead guilty. Otherwise, it’s just jumping at shadows which is weak, insipid leadership
Why the stuff would they declare what they know when there's a police investigation in process?
Well why TF would they suspend him when the rationale for that suspension cannot be explained to members?
Cart before horse Andy. Don’t fall for the woke option which is the other way around.
Why are you carrying on like the club is at fault here?
Noah clearly stuffed up and forced the club into an awkward position.
On a side note, “woke” has to be the most lazy, redundant and overused word going around.
The club ARE at fault for not waiting until the facts are presented at court or in public and this is woke because it’s pandering to a super sensitive environment that cannot tolerate any controversy with professional athletes. It’s the perfect use of the word - you’re just institutionalised to it.
We can’t control what the AFL do but by doing something ourselves we are supporting them - not our player.
As I said, be strong and show leadership. If player has done something wrong, announce he will plead guilty at a presser, do your stupid sanction and move on.
Until then, leave it.
I find it quite bizarre that Richmond supporters are actually supportive of punishing a player who hasn’t been proven or confessed to doing anything wrong in a forum that allows us the evidence to make judgement.
-
Reckon you last sentence sums up why some people are OK with the sanction HRT
Yes it hasn't been proven he's guilty of anything in a court of law
Publicly, he hasn't confessed to anything but behind closed doors, within the 4 walls of the Club you don't think he hasn't told the Club what happened and what he did?
IMHO the club has acted on what Noah has told them about the incident. They have acted swiftly (again rightly IMHO). IMV that is leadership, Club has taken control of the situation rather than letting the media have a field day and HQ dictating how the Club should handle it
-
Then do it properly. Announce he will plead guilty, do the sanction and get it before the courts. Until then, we are all guessing.
-
It’s not difficult to comprehend that sometimes players admit to things that warrant a suspension before potentially-lengthy legal proceedings play out.
You are the one ”guessing” about a “woke” club reaction when you have no idea what discussions have transpired between player and club.
I’m happy back the club’s judgement on this issue. If you’re not then I guess we leave it there.
-
Willy - it’s simple. Give members the transparency around such a big decision - when was the last time we suspended a player for a month over an off field transgression.
Where does it end?
I don’t think transparency over such a big decision is a big deal.
-
I think the club has taken their transparency as far they should, the rest of the transparency will come from the legal proceedings.
-
There’s zero transparency - only a suspension.
-
There’s zero transparency - only a suspension.
Think you're a real minority on this one, even an outlier.
Nobody bar you seems to expect the club to disclose what Balta has told them prior to court proceedings lol.
-
Welcome to the “on your own” club HRT😁 , I may not agree but get where your coming from, I support and respect your right to have your own opinion , it’s not wrong it’s not right just a little different from mine today.
-
There’s zero transparency - only a suspension.
Think you're a real minority on this one, even an outlier.
Nobody bar you seems to expect the club to disclose what Balta has told them prior to court proceedings lol.
Then hold off suspending him! It’s that simple. If the AFL want to override the club, let them. In the end, it feels a little like we are doing their dirty work for them. I have a cracking story to tell about another club which was told by a player which highlights how the AFL almost take joy from overriding the club and acting themselves (or at least forcing their hand). This also happened in the off season. It was way worse and ironically could have been kept from the public but it was decided not to do that. A disgraceful way to treat employees who make the money for the competition!
I obviously cannot share that story but weak leadership is allowing others to impose themselves on you.
Guys, on occasion, it’s okay to be unpopular if it’s for the right reasons.
They had 2 choices - suspend and explain explicitly why or hold off until the judiciary process plays out.
We actually did it with Marlion Pickett and while the circumstances were a little different, the principle holds.
Anyway, I will leave it at that. I appreciate everyone has a different view and perhaps the posts are food for thought. If not, you know what they say about opinions!
-
Wonder what the Eagles will do if Liam Ryan is the man in the picture
-
Wonder what the Eagles will do if Liam Ryan is the man in the picture
His manager was breifly interviewed (more of a door stop leaving Eagles HQ) on the news (Ch7) last night admitted it was Ryan in the video.
Great first up test for McQualter as the new coach :shh :whistle
They've already released a nothing statement
https://www.westcoasteagles.com.au/news/1707921/club-statement-liam-ryan
-
Wonder what the Eagles will do if Liam Ryan is the man in the picture
He is aboriginal so he must be treated differently
-
I think if he is treated differently it won’t be because of his skin colour
-
Noah's in court today
And has pleaded guilty
Source: HUN website
Expecting it to be sorted today (just my opinion)
-
Interesting.
Also interesting that we haven’t heard from the Eagles about actions on Liam Ryan…
-
Noah's in court today
And has pleaded guilty
Source: HUN website
Expecting it to be sorted today (just my opinion)
Any more news?
Bit concerned he's pleaded guilty. No self defense or retaliation aspect would be odd.
-
Noah's in court today
And has pleaded guilty
Source: HUN website
Expecting it to be sorted today (just my opinion)
Any more news?
Bit concerned he's pleaded guilty. No self defense or retaliation aspect would be odd.
One of the best posters I have seen in 20 odd years on these forums posted an account of the situation from his brother. Based on that, I'm not surprised.
-
Noah's in court today
And has pleaded guilty
Source: HUN website
Expecting it to be sorted today (just my opinion)
Any more news?
Bit concerned he's pleaded guilty. No self defense or retaliation aspect would be odd.
One of the best posters I have seen in 20 odd years on these forums posted an account of the situation from his brother. Based on that, I'm not surprised.
Where ?
-
Noah's in court today
And has pleaded guilty
Source: HUN website
Expecting it to be sorted today (just my opinion)
Any more news?
Bit concerned he's pleaded guilty. No self defense or retaliation aspect would be odd.
One of the best posters I have seen in 20 odd years on these forums posted an account of the situation from his brother. Based on that, I'm not surprised.
Where ?
Go find it
-
It’s on page 4 of this post
-
Richmond Tiger Noah Balta to be sentenced over border assault
ABC
30 Jan 2025
In short:
Suspended Richmond star Noah Balta has admitted to an assault following an incident that left a man in hospital with a head injury.
Balta entered a guilty plea over the incident in the NSW-Victoria border town of Mulwala on December 30.
What's next?
Balta will remain out on bail before being sentenced at Corowa Local Court on March 27.
Full article: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-01-30/richmond-tiger-noah-balta-to-be-sentenced/104876636
-
One of the best posters I have seen in 20 odd years on these forums posted an account of the situation from his brother. Based on that, I'm not surprised.
I think you mean alleged situation right?
What's next?
Balta will remain out on bail before being sentenced at Corowa Local Court on March 27
Genuinely surprised it wasn't finalised yesterday. Oh well
-
One of the best posters I have seen in 20 odd years on these forums posted an account of the situation from his brother. Based on that, I'm not surprised.
I think you mean alleged situation right?
Oh, Noah didn't just plead guilty after being charged with assault?
Yeah, the alleged incident that may have taken place...allegedly :huh
-
Visited my brother in Mulwala today for a family lunch.
He's lived in Mul for about 40 or 50 years, since before the Ski Club was built.
He's a regular there and has mates who work there including in management.
When I asked about this he told me the following:
On the tiled deck outside (lakeside) a couple ordered a pizza and had it delivered to their table.
Balta's brother then hassled them to give him a piece of their pizza.
The bloke got fed up in the finish and pushed the brother away.
Balta then stepped in and belted the pizza man.
He then followed up with a couple more shots while the guy was on the ground.
It's been reported that the guy was treated in hospital for "lacerations to the head". We will find out in court what type of lacerations and the cause (the initial punch, hitting the ground from that or the follow up punches).
Regardless this is not likely to result in a dismissal of charges, the police would seem likely to follow through to trial and verdict.
My brother also said there would be plenty of witnesses and a lot of CCTV footage. He said there was CCTV "everywhere".
I think he told me previously that the club has a lot of CCTV as they were getting suit threats from customers who had done the wrong thing and then got into trouble and this allowed them to get a lot of those nuisance suits against the club or its employees dismissed. Youngish crowd, drunk and loud rock music is the norm at the Ski Club.
In a lot of these cases it is usually a member of the star player's group who seem to feel they are as entitled as the star and create problems with their feeling of entitlement.
The player is then the one to bear the cost - in Balta's case up around $250,000 for loss of 4 games and bonuses.
BTW I trust my brother's account as while it is second-hand gossip it would come informally from club management
Real Richmond man is Noah. If this is true the weak dog deserves his 7yr contract torn up.
-
One of the best posters I have seen in 20 odd years on these forums posted an account of the situation from his brother. Based on that, I'm not surprised.
I think you mean alleged situation right?
Oh, Noah didn't just plead guilty after being charged with assault?
Yeah, the alleged incident that may have taken place...allegedly :huh
With respect the post you were referring to was posted before he pleaded guilty and it is one person's versions of events,
so in reference to the post you rate so highly it was at the time the alleged situation.
And BTW I have not found 1 article, news report about happened. If you have please feel free to post it
-
One of the best posters I have seen in 20 odd years on these forums posted an account of the situation from his brother. Based on that, I'm not surprised.
I think you mean alleged situation right?
Oh, Noah didn't just plead guilty after being charged with assault?
Yeah, the alleged incident that may have taken place...allegedly :huh
With respect the post you were referring to was posted before he pleaded guilty and it is one person's versions of events,
so in reference to the post you rate so highly it was at the time the alleged situation.
And BTW I have not found 1 article, news report about happened. If you have please feel free to post it
I said I wasn't surprised Noah pleaded guilty based on the post from someone I respect who has provided good insights in the past.
You took the ball and ran elsewhere with it.
-
I’m not saying it’s not true but I’d be surprised if the incident was as described so blatant and public that we didn’t see a single article written about it. In this day and age if it did go down as posted I would have thought it would be all over the news. I haven’t even seen 1 post about it outside of this forum in the cesspool that is social media where you generally read the most bizarre made up stories let alone something that did happen allegedly so publically.
-
Meanwhile. liam ryan whom we’ve all seen footage of and is currently in a good place. Yeah, suspension was a great proactive decision
-
Meanwhile. liam ryan whom we’ve all seen footage of and is currently in a good place. Yeah, suspension was a great proactive decision
Yeah you’re right. We should use the WCE as an example of how to handle problematic player behaviour, they’re worldwide leaders in that area.
-
We shouldn’t be led by the AFL either.
I love how the modern world has this voracious appetite to punish the young athlete.
Pathetic.
-
HRT, the guys pleaded guilty to assault. Did you want the club to just let it slide?
I could understand your case if he had pleaded not guilty but even then they could just play the ‘shouldn’t have put himself in that position’ card to justify the suspension. But he’s pled guilty and no doubt he informed the club of this prior to them dishing out the suspension, so what the problem?
-
I would just wait until we know all the facts. I appreciate Go Richo prefers we take the soft, woke action over the Eagles who are waiting for the noise to die down but my view is that once we all know everything it’s easier to join the dots on the punishment to the crime.
Why do we feel the need to jump so quickly to the punishment?
-
I’m not saying it’s not true but I’d be surprised if the incident was as described so blatant and public that we didn’t see a single article written about it. In this day and age if it did go down as posted I would have thought it would be all over the news. I haven’t even seen 1 post about it outside of this forum in the cesspool that is social media where you generally read the most bizarre made up stories let alone something that did happen allegedly so publically.
^^^^ this
-
I would just wait until we know all the facts. I appreciate Go Richo prefers we take the soft, woke action over the Eagles who are waiting for the noise to die down but my view is that once we all know everything it’s easier to join the dots on the punishment to the crime.
Why do we feel the need to jump so quickly to the punishment?
The one person who does know exactly what happened here is Noah
Don't you think he has told the Club "the facts" of what happened, what he did?
He said from the beginning confirmed via a club statement he was going to plead guilty.
Do you honestly think they club would have whacked him (pun intended) with a 4 match suspension if he had said like Ryan of the WCE has "I was provoked, they attacked me first" or "I didn't do it"? (that's how it was reported on the mews)
You keep using the Ryan case as example. IMHO it is a poor one. Ryan has used the time honoured WCE player defence when they get into trouble and that he was provoked.
Biggest single difference here is Noah admitted he stuffed up, that is the single biggest fact and when it is all said and done the only fact that actually matters.
So Rather than being critical of the Club perhaps give them, the player credit for being pro-active and avoiding a media circus which surely would have eventuated if the Club had sat on its hands and did nothing
-
Club moved way too quickly. Poor leadership, scared of the AFL’s shadow.
Wait until case is concluded and use those facts to then hand out the punishment.
Let me ask this - if the current administration were handling the dustin martin chopsticks incident would they have jumped quickly? I reckon they would.
I’ve never said don’t suspend only wait until the facts are public to allow the club to PROPERLY inform their members.
I am in total agreement with the Eagles approach providing they explain the basis of the punishment or not.
People love jumping on people these days like it’s a blood sport - it’s pathetic.
-
I would just wait until we know all the facts. I appreciate Go Richo prefers we take the soft, woke action over the Eagles who are waiting for the noise to die down but my view is that once we all know everything it’s easier to join the dots on the punishment to the crime.
Why do we feel the need to jump so quickly to the punishment?
Why is every opinion that is different to another’s considered soft and woke? Anyway, has anyone considered the fact that Noah may have requested that the club finalise this ASAP for his and the victims benefit?
-
Well - then have a press conference and explain that? My point is transparency
-
What happened to “innocent until proven guilty”?
-
Well - then have a press conference and explain that? My point is transparency
It's a police matter and he hadn't pled guilty yet.
They were just being proactive.
They knew he would plead guilty because he's guilty.
-
What happened to “innocent until proven guilty”?
You do t have to prove guilt if someone pleads guilty.
-
I think , Balta admitted guilt , took the club 4 weeks and whatever the courts will impose on him as acceptance and admission of fault and to move on. I think the club doesn’t see any value in giving it any more oxygen and hopes Balta learns from his mistake and punishment .
-
Well - then have a press conference and explain that? My point is transparency
It's a police matter and he hadn't pled guilty yet.
They were just being proactive.
They knew he would plead guilty because he's guilty.
Then. Wait. Let’s get all facts on table. Whole thing then makes sense. Hopefully.
Even on this thread, people are speculating to justify the punishment. I can easily say “He threw a punch, missed, guy fell and cracked his head, went to hospital for 2 stitches.” So, on that basis - maybe 4 weeks probably not. He lands him flush, goes to hospital for a broken nose - yes 4 weeks. He kings him, bloke knocked out - in hospital and discharged with severe concussion. 4 weeks looks light on.
We
Don’t
Effing
Know
Until facts are transparent
It’s not that hard folks.
-
Well - then have a press conference and explain that? My point is transparency
It's a police matter and he hadn't pled guilty yet.
They were just being proactive.
They knew he would plead guilty because he's guilty.
Then. Wait. Let’s get all facts on table. Whole thing then makes sense. Hopefully.
Even on this thread, people are speculating to justify the punishment. I can easily say “He threw a punch, missed, guy fell and cracked his head, went to hospital for 2 stitches.” So, on that basis - maybe 4 weeks probably not. He lands him flush, goes to hospital for a broken nose - yes 4 weeks. He kings him, bloke knocked out - in hospital and discharged with severe concussion. 4 weeks looks light on.
We
Don’t
Effing
Know
Until facts are transparent
It’s not that hard folks.
We don't need to effing know.
The club knows and acted.
Paying your membership doesn't entitle you to know everything the players and administration say to one another.
He's guilty and knew it and told them and they suspended him proactively.
Get the chip off your shoulder dude, the ranting about deserving to know etc seems a bit childish to me.
-
Guess what Andy? It’s an opinion. It’s a forum.
Some of us want the transparency. Just because I don’t agree with your view, doesn’t make it childish - it makes it different.
Ironic you call that out as being childish.
My view is pretty clear and very reasonable. Restrained even.
-
This is such a strange hill for you to die on HRT.
Getting mad at the club instead of the player who obviously stuffed up and plead guilty to assault.
-
Guess what Andy? It’s an opinion. It’s a forum.
Some of us want the transparency. Just because I don’t agree with your view, doesn’t make it childish - it makes it different.
Ironic you call that out as being childish.
My view is pretty clear and very reasonable. Restrained even.
Yeah I guess we all have opinions but we share and debate them here and I'm finding your's really untenable. Reminds me of arguing with clawski at times.
Seems kind of petulant like a kid throwing their toys out of the cot? I know that's a jerk thing to say but you're literally alone on this and upset that the club didn't do what you wanted them to, while a bloke has pled guilty to assault with the courts and every single other person is either supportive or at least not really bothered by the club banning him after he probably told them he punched someone's lights out.
You don't actually seem to have any issues with anything else in the scenario except the club didn't do it how you wanted lol.
Meanwhile there's a court and legal process, entirely separate to the club, but yeah let's do a press conference before Noah has his plee entered?
On the other hand the club finds out he's punched a bloke and decided to sit on their hands for weeks or longer and will be criticised for that too by a likely warm majority.
-
This is such a strange hill for you to die on HRT.
Getting mad at the club instead of the player who obviously stuffed up and plead guilty to assault.
Not mad. Happy to be on this hill. Not bothered by the opposing views. Get them, don’t agree. All good.
Might not be landing but that’s a ok. I am and have always advocated waiting until facts are public - in court if need be and then doing the punishing. The season doesn’t start for another 6 weeks. We always had time on our side.
Don’t always need a fast food solution to every problem…
-
Meanwhile, Liam Ryan is free to play after we all saw footage of him in a fist fight. :lol
AFL again treating us like morons…
-
Meanwhile, Liam Ryan is free to play after we all saw footage of him in a fist fight. :lol
AFL again treating us like morons…
Just so I'm an clear here
Noah (behind closed doors) tells his club what happened, what he did and last week pleads guilty to assault.
Club acts on what Noah tells them, you know those pesky little things called facts and the Club are morons?
Not sure why you keep referring to the Ryan situation as being the same as Noah mess. Cops investigated Ryan have said no case to answer....
Cops charged Noah
Two very different cases don't you think?
-
Meanwhile, Liam Ryan is free to play after we all saw footage of him in a fist fight. :lol
AFL again treating us like morons…
It’s been reported that a woman was assaulted and he was standing up for her. WC probs got this context and let him off.
-
HRT let it go man. Player assaulted someone, is charged by police, admitted fault to the club and the club suspended him. A couple of weeks later he pleads guilty in court.
No matter how much you keep saying it, the club did nothing wrong, the AFL didn’t mistreat us (in this case atleast) and the club does not owe you a public press conference or detailed report as to what exactly happened regardless of how much $$$ you spend on your membership.
-
Noah Balta will miss the first four games of the 2025 season after being handed a club-imposed suspension after pleading guilty to assault following an incident in the border town of Mulwala during the Christmas leave period.
Yze said the 25-year-old is remorseful for his behaviour and has tried to make amends at the football club since returning at the start of January.
"He knows he has let himself down and the footy club down with his actions. All I can ask is the way he has responded. That's what I am most proud of: his response has been exactly what we are after," he said.
"He has to win back the respect of his teammates. He feels like he has let me and his family down. He has done everything right since the minute we handed down that suspension. He has tried to help others, put his head down and that is the type of guy he is.
"We've got four or five young key-position players and he is outmarking them in a contest and then two minutes later he is telling them how and why that happened. He has some leadership capabilities and we are going to help him with that. He knows that he did something wrong and he is trying to do something about it."
Balta will also miss fixtures against Port Adelaide, St Kilda and Brisbane to start 2025.
Source: AFL website (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1267882/formula-for-success-richmond-tigers-use-mclaren-mantra-to-fast-track-rebuild)
-
I presume he’s missing the preseaon games as well which makes it a 6 game suspension while Stevie May and Liam Ryan go along and play footy.
What a crazy world we live in
-
Crazy is not the world here. Not only that Yze had to stick some more boots in during his last presser.
This is only playing out like this because we are sitting last on the ladder. Any other time and there is no chance Balta misses games.
-
Good point FJ, got a little idealistic there
-
Crazy is not the world here. Not only that Yze had to stick some more boots in during his last presser.
This is only playing out like this because we are sitting last on the ladder. Any other time and there is no chance Balta misses games.
Sorry did I miss something
Where exactly did Yze "stick some more boots in during his presser"
I presume he’s missing the preseaon games as well which makes it a 6 game suspension while Stevie May and Liam Ryan go along and play footy.
What a crazy world we live in
Ryan got cleared by the WA police so he's free to play.
Yes May played yesterday as the cops are still investigating.
What you conveniently neglect to mention is Prestia has also been linked to the May incident and our Club you know the one you've continually bagged over the Balta over have said that Prestia is free to play as he has no case to answer....or I'd you miss that bit?
Single biggest differences between Balta and the cases you keep mentioning are
1/ Balta was charged by the cops and after that happened
2/ went to the Club told then what happened and what he did and the Club acted. He subsequently pleaded guilty to the charge.
I really don't understand why you cannot accept those pesky facts.
Title facts
-
We don’t know what happened so the punishment might not fit the crime.
For all we know, he threw a punch and missed him.
Guy could have fallen over avoiding the swing and got that cut.
Once we know, it will make that suspension clearer.
All us have said is wait until we have all the information as a club and hold a presser to explain it
Balta has done the right thing and pleaded guilty which has resulted in a 6 week suspension.
May has not and is free to play.
That doesn’t sit well with me.
Ryan may have been cleared by the cops but are we now condoning street fights?
His excuse might have merit but why did he need to shape up and fight the bloke?
Doesn’t make any sense.
Prestia has previously been cleared by the club and they stated as he was a bystander and not involved or do we now want to suspend players for guilt by association?
-
We don’t know what happened so the punishment might not fit the crime.
For all we know, he threw a punch and missed him.
Guy could have fallen over avoiding the swing and got that cut.
Once we know, it will make that suspension clearer.
All us have said is wait until we have all the information as a club and hold a presser to explain it
Balta has done the right thing and pleaded guilty which has resulted in a 6 week suspension.
May has not and is free to play.
That doesn’t sit well with me.
Ryan may have been cleared by the cops but are we now condoning street fights?
His excuse might have merit but why did he need to shape up and fight the bloke?
Doesn’t make any sense.
Prestia has previously been cleared as he was a bystander and not involved or do we now want to suspend players for guilt by association?
My point is you keep comparing incidents that are not close to being the same.
Prestia told the Club what happened and they are obviously satisfied and so he is in the clear. As for May he is under investigation and Melbourne have said he's free to play, that's their call. BTW he hasn't been charged so what exactly is he supposed to pleade guilty to?
As for Ryan, if you want to compare it to a similar incident. Go back to 2021 when Bolton and Rioli, D got involved in a brawl while standing up for one of their partners. No police charges, Club didn't punish them, was that condoning street fights? .. oh BTW AFL did swoop in and fined Bolton because the Club did nothing..
Noah was not under investigation when he fronted the Club. He was already charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm. Key wording in the charge is "grievous bodily harm".
Noah being honest, upfront and taking responsibility for what he did doesn’t sit well with you? Would you have preferred he get sentenced, after playing a couple of meaningless praccy games and then miss 6 H&A games or god knows how many if the punishment was handed out by the AFL?
Unlike you I don't think we need to hear the details of what happened at this stage. There is no need. The person most affected and that's Noah Balta, not me or anyone on this forum has told the people that needed to know what happened. Are you seriously suggesting if he swung a punch and missed the penalty would have been as harsh as it is? Let the his next court date play out and I'm sure all the details will be made public by the media
-
Comparison is relevant because it all - all of it - sits within a code of conduct as it relates to bringing the code into disrepute.
Your argument is like saying we won’t compare racial vilification to punching someone by the tribunal.
Both sit within a players conduct on the field as both Liam Ryan and Noah Balta’s sits off field.
I am not comparing the incidents directly but both are a bad look for the competition unless you think that footage is a good look.
Where exactly have I said Noah Balta should not have pleaded guilty? I am not saying that, I always been of the view we should have waited until the court case was finished as at the time it was supposed to be resolved before the season started.
My point has always been to wait, bring all the facts to the table to help everyone understand it. Liam Ryan’s has been handled that way and while I do not agree with his lack of sanction it does give context. That is all I am saying for Noah Balta.
As for Stevie May - it has been reported a few times that Dion Prestia was a bystander and not part of police investigations. Again, we have some information to use.
“Prestia saw it happening but in no way was he involved. They weren’t involved in any physical altercation.” This was the official club statement. So, don’t know what your point is. It pin points WHY they are satisfied
-
Where exactly have I said Noah Balta should not have pleaded guilty? I am not saying that, I always been of the view we should have waited until the court case was finished as at the time it was supposed to be resolved before the season started.
My point has always been to wait, bring all the facts to the table to help everyone understand it. Liam Ryan’s has been handled that way and while I do not agree with his lack of sanction it does give context. That is all I am saying for Noah Balta.
You didn't say he shouldn't pleade guilty. But you did say
" We don’t know what happened so the punishment might not fit the crime.
For all we know, he threw a punch and missed him.
Guy could have fallen over avoiding the swing and got that cut.
Once we know, it will make that suspension clearer.
All us have said is wait until we have all the information as a club and hold a presser to explain it
Balta has done the right thing and pleaded guilty which has resulted in a 6 week suspension.
May has not and is free to play.
That doesn’t sit well with me.
You are right we the members and supporters don't know what truly happened.
But and it is the key for mine Noah does and he told the Club. The Club has all the info it clearly needs from Noah. They believe Noah. So to say the Club doesn't have all the information is incorrect. Why isn't what Noah had told the club enough from you?
Your issue seems to be more with the fact the Club hasn't given the details of what they've been told by the player. Untilcthe ,after is finalised in front of the Courts they don't need, nor should they. Ever thought for a minute that the Clubs actions may help Noah in his court case? Not saying it will but it might
-
Whoa
There are so many narratives and possibilities James Cameron would be agog!
Has anyone considered that he did not plead guilty, he just rocked up to the cop shop after hearing there was an issue, and made a statement??
What he told the club,,,, is confidential.
Just keep your options and opinions open.
-
Whoa
There are so many narratives and possibilities James Cameron would be agog!
Has anyone considered that he did not plead guilty, he just rocked up to the cop shop after hearing there was an issue, and made a statement??
What he told the club,,,, is confidential.
Just keep your options and opinions open.
Umm he has pleased guilty.... on the 30th January to be precise. He continues to be on bail until his next hearing date where he is due to sentenced
See page 6 of this thread
https://oneeyed-richmond.com/forum/index.php?topic=33794.msg785067#msg785067
He handed himself and was subsequently charged and bailed...
So sorry, Mint not sure what point you're trying to make TBH
-
Whoa
There are so many narratives and possibilities James Cameron would be agog!
Has anyone considered that he did not plead guilty, he just rocked up to the cop shop after hearing there was an issue, and made a statement??
What he told the club,,,, is confidential.
Just keep your options and opinions open.
Umm he has pleased guilty.... on the 30th January to be precise. He continues to be on bail until his next hearing date where he is due to sentenced
See page 6 of this thread
https://oneeyed-richmond.com/forum/index.php?topic=33794.msg785067#msg785067
He handed himself and was subsequently charged and bailed...
So sorry, Mint not sure what point you're trying to make TBH
Sorry too many reds🥹
-
From the Border Mail today: https://www.bordermail.com.au/story/8898930/richmonds-noah-balta-to-be-sued-over-mulwala-ski-club-assault/?cs=11
A Yarrawonga man who was seriously injured by Richmond player Noah Balta will sue the footballer, with his lawyer describing the Mulwala assault as savage, brutal, and unprovoked.
Balta is awaiting sentence in Corowa court in March after admitting to assault occasioning actual bodily harm over the Mulwala Water Ski Club incident.
The assault occurred on December 30 last year, and Balta handed himself in at the Mulwala police station the next day.
Balta will be sentenced in Corowa Local Court on March 27.
He will miss pre-season matches and the first four rounds following a club-imposed sanction.
The victim, Wangaratta council worker Thomas Washbrook, will sue Balta over the attack, which his lawyer, John Suta, described as "brutal".
"He was savagely and brutally assaulted by you without provocation by being punched by you on numerous occasions, in circumstances in which you had obviously consumed excessive intoxicating liquor ... and our client thereby suffered severe injury," Mr Suta said in a letter to Balta.
He said the injuries included "severe and extensive" facial lacerations, abrasions and bruising, concussion, rib fractures, headaches, PTSD, shock, scarring, anxiety, and other problems.
Noah Balta seriously assaulted Thomas Washbrook at the Mulwala Water Ski Club on December 30 last year. Mr Washbrook's lawyer says he plans to make a civil claim for damages in court.
"I think his mental battle is harder than his physical battle," Mr Suta said.
"I'm not a plastic surgeon, but it appears he's got a scar that will be lifelong on the right-hand side of his forehead.
"It will be a permanent scar."
The assault occurred at the Mulwala Water Ski Club. File picture
The assault occurred at the Mulwala Water Ski Club. File picture
Mr Suta said security vision showed his client had twice been hit by Balta as he tried to get up.
"It was a particularly brutal assault," he said.
"Cowardly."
A civil claim hasn't been filed in NSW court, but Mr Suta said that would happen soon after Balta failed to respond to a January 30 letter.
He said there had been "arrogant silence" from the footballer.
Mr Suta said he was seeking damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and aggravated damages.
Richmond declined to comment.
The club's chief executive Shane Dunne stated in January that "Noah deeply regrets being involved in the incident".
Balta will be sentenced over the assault in Corowa Local Court on March 27.
-
Seeing the Border Mail is part of the Murdoch media, I'm sure the HUN will pick up the above pretty quickly
So nice of the victim's lawyer to allow the paper to print part of the letter
As for "arrogant silience"; I think the victim's lawyer would know that the silence has been advised by Noah's lawyers
-
Balta strikes me as a person not running on all cylinders.
I dunno but he might have kangaroos loose in the top paddock.
What I'm sayin' is, he's not the full quid and he's probably a snag short of a barbie.
-
Strongly suspect the "ptsd" suddenly kicked in once he realised who the assailant was and only worsened when he was made aware of said assailant's recent contract. :shh
-
As I expected the HUN ran the story yesterday.
=======
‘Arrogant silence’:
Balta assault victim sues Tigers star for damages
A man who was assaulted by Noah Balta has begun civil proceedings against the Richmond star, seeking compensation for claims of “post-traumatic stress, shock and anxiety”.
Behind their paywall
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/subscribe/news/1/?sourceCode=HSWEB_MRE170_a&dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.heraldsun.com.au%2Ftruecrimeaustralia%2Fpolice-courts-victoria%2Farrogant-silence-balta-assault-victim-sues-for-compensation%2Fnews-story%2F49b80502f40d29a2304e3e14a7aa78ca&memtype=anonymous&mode=premium&v21=ULTRALOW-Segment-2-SCORE
And if you have a hard copy of yesterday's HUN it's on page 6
And a selfie video from the victim
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/noah-balta-to-be-sued-by-assault-victim-following-his-arrogance/video/aeecf60dce76e5324810da10d2801e68
-
Just a couple of points from what I read from page 6
- Victim's lawyer sent their letter to the RFC addressed to the CEO and that "that they are looking for compensation"
- lawyer said the RFC didn't respond "to invitations to "negotiations amicable resolution" to the matter"
(From Herald-Sun 22nd Feb 2025 page 6)
======
Couple of points from me
1/ why was the letter sent to the club and not Noah's lawyers? They would know who his lawyer is so surely any correspondence should go through them? RFC is Noah's employer so it has nothing to do with then.
2/ I would hope now people would understand why the Club has said nothing about what happened and its only comments has been around the suspension. Think the above makes it fairly obvious..
-
I think we all know what’s happening here. Suspending actually enables the abhorrent behaviour of the lawyer as it promotes the “smoke and fire” perception from the public.
Anyway, let’s see how this plays out when the courts finally hand down their decision and hopefully we can close the book on it.
-
So nice of the victim's lawyer to allow the paper to print part of the letter
As for "arrogant silience"; I think the victim's lawyer would know that the silence has been advised by Noah's lawyers
I think the lawyer was referring to the "failure to respond to a January 30 letter". Even if silence had been advised by lawyers that doesn't explain a failure to respond to an "invitation to negotiate an amicable resolution". Since Balta plead guilty it was always a fair chance that he would be asked for damages.
-
So nice of the victim's lawyer to allow the paper to print part of the letter
As for "arrogant silience"; I think the victim's lawyer would know that the silence has been advised by Noah's lawyers
I think the lawyer was referring to the "failure to respond to a January 30 letter". Even if silence had been advised by lawyers that doesn't explain a failure to respond to an "invitation to negotiate an amicable resolution". Since Balta plead guilty it was always a fair chance that he would be asked for damages.
Why send the letter to the RFC? Surely it goes to Noah's lawyer not the Club?
-
Why send the letter to the RFC? Surely it goes to Noah's lawyer not the Club?
Perhaps the Jan 30 letter went to Balta's lawyer and was ignored.
So the victim's lawyer then sends the next letter to his employer to pass on, noting that the language was "assaulted by you".
To ensure he gets a response he then goes to the press.
-
It's pretty obvious that the victim & his lawyer have taken aim at the money. The victim is suing Balta & will collect a good sum for his trouble, which is probably fair enough, but why try to drag the RFC into the story when it really has nothing to do with the club?
There is much fishing going on, the club's best course of action is to keep right out of it.
-
Lol here we go.
Pain and suffering.
Loss of enjoyment if life.
A million dollars please.
Grow some balls. If this was any Joe blow they wouldn't sue crap.
-
Why send the letter to the RFC? Surely it goes to Noah's lawyer not the Club?
Perhaps the Jan 30 letter went to Balta's lawyer and was ignored.
So the victim's lawyer then sends the next letter to his employer to pass on, noting that the language was "assaulted by you".
To ensure he gets a response he then goes to the press.
Ummm.... no, going by the article in the ever reputable HUN there was one letter and it was sent to the RFC not hos lawyer
-
Ummm.... no, going by the article in the ever reputable HUN there was one letter and it was sent to the RFC not hos lawyer
I share your seeming frustration with the quality of the journalism around this report but it is what it is in the press.
I don't think its particularly useful to focus on the details about how the issue is being pursued by lawyers on either side.
The details we do accept is that Balta assaulted a man.
Balta accepted a police brief about the assault and plead guilty (to be sentenced).
The victim of the assault has hired a lawyer to claim damages - both temporary and permanent.
Temporary damages would be based on a medical report from the hospital and ongoing medical treatment for physical injuries suffered.
Permanent damages would be medical-based on physical injuries and mental injuries based on the opinion of qualified experts.
We are all a bit sceptical about the validity of these long term mental injuries and doubtless the argument about them will continue up to and even beyond the settlement of this damages claim.
If there is any truth in how the victim's lawyer has complained about the "arrogant silence" I am a bit astounded.
Surely getting on the front foot and at least engaging with the lawyer would have been the best approach in the circumstances (guilty plea).
-
I mean all seems an absolute soap opera. But was is absolutely certain is don't belt someone Noah and this sort of circus doesn't happen.
-
Was the lead story on Ch7 news tonight
Didn't see the full actual story
Just the victim's lawyer saying his letter hasn't been answered
-
The lawyer of the bloke interviewed on 7news. 7news saying he is seeking compo for his client from Balta in the $100Ks.
They also showed vision of the bloke with blood on his face from a cut to his temple.
-
The lawyer of the bloke interviewed on 7news. 7news saying he is seeking compo for his client from Balta in the $100Ks.
They also showed vision of the bloke with blood on his face from a cut to his temple.
This has the hallmarks of a bloke leveraging the bad publicity of a incident where noone knows what actually happened for financial gain
-
Here's the 7news report:
Richmond premiership hero Noah Balta is facing a legal payout in the hundreds of thousands of dollars over a wild pub punch-on. His victim's lawyer has told 7NEWS his client has been left with life-long injuries from the attack.
@cassiezervos #7NEWS
(https://images.7news.com.au/publication/C-17843468/0126d99f51933c26cd07fcf01d8c2395c4979aac.jpg?imwidth=650&impolicy=sevennews_v2) (https://x.com/7NewsMelbourne/status/1894283834751160417)
https://x.com/7NewsMelbourne/status/1894283834751160417
-
This has the hallmarks of a bloke leveraging the bad publicity of a incident where noone knows what actually happened for financial gain
A police brief about the incident has been accepted by both sides and the magistrate.
The lawyer also mentions security vision saying it shows the whole incident.
Would think the venue and both sides, as well as the police, know all the details.
It's only the public that don't know.
If it's settled (likely IMO) we - the general public - may never know the facts but I wouldn't bet the video won't see the light of day in the future.
-
This has the hallmarks of a bloke leveraging the bad publicity of a incident where noone knows what actually happened for financial gain
You keep going on about no-one knows
That is incorrect, wrong call it what you like
Noah, knows, the cops know, the victim, the lawyers and our Club knows
Plenty of people know
You and I don't know and appears to be your on going issue, you don't know and for reasons only you know that's not good enough or right from where you sit
-
That’s true, all of it. My point is that the lawyer is leveraging the fact we don’t know to put pressure on the club to act. It’s a dog act. Unlike you, I have moved on from the earlier debate which is completely different
-
That’s true, all of it. My point is that the lawyer is leveraging the fact we don’t know to put pressure on the club to act. It’s a dog act. Unlike you, I have moved on from the earlier debate which is completely different
Unlike you I think the lawyer being so public and going via the press to put on pressure was a dumb move.
Keeping the incident as private as possible is/was in the best interest of Balta in term of possible forthcoming sponserships.
By publishing the details of the incident to me gives away a key bargaining position the lawyer could have used in negotiations.
-
I don’t think they were expecting the club to not respond so went public.
Good move by club to stand firm, no doubt lawyer threatened to hold to the press. lawyer now getting desperate.
If this guy has been beaten to a pulp, which we don’t know yet, we will be hearing all the details in a civil case later.
-
Saw the video of the victim.
Looks beaten up but also sounds like a real tosser.
I 100% don't believe it was 'for no reason' but obviously there's probably no *good reason*.
-
Full of holes
Victim states
“I go out for a night with some 18 year old and it happens again …”
“..it always happens to the big guy…”
And his lawyers states
“… we are still waiting to hear from Mr Broads council….”
Sounds like a sh.. storm
-
Saw the video of the victim.
Looks beaten up but also sounds like a real tosser.
I 100% don't believe it was 'for no reason' but obviously there's probably no *good reason*.
Did he sound concussed?
-
Saw the video of the victim.
Looks beaten up but also sounds like a real tosser.
I 100% don't believe it was 'for no reason' but obviously there's probably no *good reason*.
Did he sound concussed?
Absolutely not lmao
Carrying on about how he got a flogging for absolutely no reason when he's out with some 18yo kids (dude looks 35-40+) and it always happens to the big guy etc.
Going on like a pork chop.
-
Agree that the guy seems like a knob. Makes Noah's actions more understable, though you can't go smashing blokes regardless.
-
Lmao
Just seen the video
Noah’s lawyers would be giggling
The bloke basically admits that getting into fights is the norm for him
-
Snip! You know the rules ppl. Please don't post unsubstantiated claims. Stick to the facts that have been made public.
-
Saw the video of the victim.
Looks beaten up but also sounds like a real tosser.
I 100% don't believe it was 'for no reason' but obviously there's probably no *good reason*.
Did he sound concussed?
Absolutely not lmao
Carrying on about how he got a flogging for absolutely no reason when he's out with some 18yo kids (dude looks 35-40+) and it always happens to the big guy etc.
Going on like a pork chop.
He's 27.
-----------
In the video 27-year-old Thomas Washbrook appears bloodied, bruised and barely able to open his right eye.
“Look at the big cut on my head,” Washrook can be heard saying.
“I came out for a good night ... hang out with some 18-year-olds and I get f******* flogged the f*** out for no reason once again.”
https://7news.com.au/sport/afl/bashed-victim-of-richmond-star-noah-balta-goes-public-with-shocking-injury-toll-c-17843468
-
Saw the video of the victim.
Looks beaten up but also sounds like a real tosser.
I 100% don't believe it was 'for no reason' but obviously there's probably no *good reason*.
Did he sound concussed?
Absolutely not lmao
Carrying on about how he got a flogging for absolutely no reason when he's out with some 18yo kids (dude looks 35-40+) and it always happens to the big guy etc.
Going on like a pork chop.
He's 27.
-----------
In the video 27-year-old Thomas Washbrook appears bloodied, bruised and barely able to open his right eye.
“Look at the big cut on my head,” Washrook can be heard saying.
“I came out for a good night ... hang out with some 18-year-olds and I get f******* flogged the f*** out for no reason once again.”
https://7news.com.au/sport/afl/bashed-victim-of-richmond-star-noah-balta-goes-public-with-shocking-injury-toll-c-17843468
Fooled me. Must have been a hard 27 years on the grog. Looks 40+
-
"once again" seems like the flog has form.
-
"once again" seems like the flog has form.
Yep.
-
He is such a loser, he must barrack for Carlton