Richmond defender Noah Balta has spoken out after his court-ordered curfew ruled he will not be able to play in some of the club’s fixtures over the next three months.
Balta was spared jail time for his assault of a man in December, but received a community corrections order on Tuesday which includes a 10pm curfew, given a criminal conviction, fined $3000 and must abstain from alcohol.
The side face Melbourne on Anzac Day eve this Thursday night, a marquee fixture the two clubs have built up in recent years.
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Noah Balta. Getty Images
Richmond also have the traditional Dreamtime clash with Essendon within that curfew period.
Due to his interstate travel ban, he won’t be able to play in round 12 against GWS either.
His lawyer pushed the magistrate regarding the impact this verdict would have on his ability to play, though this consideration was dismissed.
Balta must also pay the victim $45,000 in damages and has since apologised.
“I apologise to the victim, my family and friends, and everyone associated with the Richmond Football Club,” he said in a statement.
“I have let a lot of people down and the lesson has been learned that violence is never the answer.
“I will continue to work to improve myself to ensure this never happens again.”
AFL player Noah Balta leaves court after his sentencing at Albury Local Court. AAP
Richmond boss Shane Dunne said Balta has “paid a significant price as he should”.
“This club does not condone violence in any form, and it is why we took such a strong and immediate stand when this incident came to light,” he said.
“Noah has worked hard to improve himself in the months following the incident, undertaking education and counselling. That work will continue.
“With the judicial process now concluded, it remains our collective expectation that Noah learns from this, and we see the best version of him going forward.”
Balta returned for the Tigers on Saturday night in the club’s win over Gold Coast.
His appearance for the yellow and black caused plenty of controversy given he was yet to be sentenced after pleading guilty to assault.
Richmond defender Noah Balta. Getty
The AFL also released a statement, condemning Balta’s actions.
“His actions on that night are something we never wish to see in any setting, by anyone, at any time,” a spokesperson said.
“Balta’s conduct could have resulted in a much more serious outcome, his actions do not represent behaviours acceptable to anyone in our game or our community and he must continue to take responsibility for them.
“Prior to court sentencing, Richmond, in consultation with the AFL, suspended Balta and he was not eligible to play in the club’s two pre-season matches as well as the first four weeks of the AFL season.
“The sentence imposed by the court today will also impact his participation in some of Richmond’s upcoming matches due to his court enforced curfew. Balta will also continue to undertake a behavioural change program.
“The AFL will take no further action in addition to the already served suspension and impact on his participation in future matches.”
