Dayne Zorko and Touk Miller.Credit:Archives
Obviously,there’s nothing sexual about such actions on the sporting field. But the so-called “squirrel grip” can often be a gesture of contempt,dominance and humiliation.
It’s about power.
For those who have been watching Zorko and Miller for a long time – the pair have a well-documented history of antagonism dating back to 2018 – there may be a temptation to giggle.
But it only takes a few seconds and a step back to see that it’s a terrible look for the game,especially at a time when discussions around touching and consent are so charged.
For the AFL to have dithered for the better part of a week in dealing with it is remarkable.
It should also be noted that Zorko has been involved in a succession of ugly incidents across his decorated 243-game career.
Twice,he has been suspended for “making unnecessary contact with the eye region” (another great AFL euphemism) of opponents,most recently after the round 11 game against Adelaide.
He has been sanctioned seven times for striking,and four for misconduct. In 2019,there were allegations of spitting that the match review office could not prove to its satisfaction.
Zorko later said he would use the experience to become “a better person”. Nine’s Caroline Wilson later reported that Zorko had copped some very personal sledging himself that night.
Nevertheless,the picture painted is of a ruthless competitor who has always played on the edge of what is considered acceptable on the sporting field.
But while Zorko may have his own case of white-line fever,none of this justifies or excuses non-incidental contact with an opponent’s genitalia,which is unacceptable in any context.
This brings us to the one-match suspension,which Miller has accepted,while stating it was always his intention to execute a fair tackle.
The Suns have also defended their captain,stating that Miller has “built a reputation as a fair and strong leader who is admired by the entire AFL community”.
That may be so. But,having accepted the penalty,is missing one match for such a charge – once sustained – really enough? Does a charge of “conduct unbecoming” cut it?
Former Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd certainly doesn’t think so,telling Nine’s Footy Classified that he believed such actions were on “the highest end of serious offences”.