PORT ADELAIDE ruckman Peter Ladhams has apologised to members over his AFL COVID-19 breach and expressed his gratitude to his coaches and teammates for including him in the side to face Essendon on Saturday.
Ladhams has missed the last three games after being suspended by the AFL for breaching the strict protocols that players, coaches and staff have to adhere to.
Coach Ken Hinkley confirmed Ladhams would be selected to take on the Bombers in the Saturday twilight game at Adelaide Oval, and the 202cm big man told portadelaidefc.com.au that he felt fortunate to be given that opportunity.
“I’m definitely real thankful just to be back into the team,” he said.
“The coaches and players didn’t have to put me straight back into the team so I’m really thankful for that and I just want to go out there and get the respect and trust back of not only the players but the coaching staff and also the supporters who have supported the club all year.”
Ladhams and teammate Dan Houston had visitors at Ladhams’ home last month in breach of the rules.
Houston served a two-match ban for his part in the incident and returned to play in last week's win over North Melbourne.
Ladhams said he knew the rules and he has had to come to terms with the severity of disregarding them.
“I’m disappointed in my decision and I totally own that,” he explained.
“I knew the rules and why they are set in place so I’ve had some tough conversations with coaches and players over the past three weeks and I just hope I can earn the trust and the respect back from them moving forward.”
More than anything, Ladhams said he had let down the team and the club’s members.
He hoped by performing and helping the team on the run into the finals, he could show his remorse.
“I just want to say sorry to the members who have supported the club this year,” Ladhams said.
“It’s obviously a tough year and they’ve stuck by us so it’s pretty disappointing on my behalf to let them down and I want to get the trust back and hopefully play some good games late in the year to repay them.”
First bounce at Adelaide Oval is 4:35pm on Saturday.
