West Coast football boss Craig Vozzo says the Eagles are no closer to an answer on suspended goalsneak Willie Rioli, more than a month after he faced the AFL anti-doping tribunal.
The premiership forward has been provisionally suspended from the game for nearly 18 months, alleged to have substituted a urine sample during a drug test in 2019.
“We’re in the same position as you, where we’re waiting on a decision,” Vozzo told Sportsday WA.
“Hopefully it’s not too far away, and then we can move forward and most importantly, Willie has some certainty as to his future.”
Asked whether the Eagles have disputed the length of the process with regulatory body Sport Integrity Australia, Vozzo said it has remained close to home.
“Our dealings have primarily - other than at the court stage - been through the AFL,” he explained.
“Discussions have taken place at AFL level, but really from a process perspective.
“Surely there’s a better way to come to an outcome even in difficult circumstances, in quicker fashion.”
If the Tiwi Islander is cleared to play in 2021, Vozzo says he will be ready to roll.
“There’s always a risk (of losing match fitness), when you’re not feeling great because of the circumstances you find yourself in.
“He’s been really motivated and kept himself in really good condition.”