This decision was initiated by Marley, who feels that it is not in his or anyone else’s interests to see out the period up to his sentencing by attempting to play football at the highest level.
It was a decision made in consultation with all of the other relevant parties, including health and legal professionals, Marley’s management, the AFLPA and AFL.
As a consequence, Marley has elected not to play in this Sunday’s practice match against the Gold Coast Suns at Metricon Stadium.
Marley will continue to train and prepare himself for a possible return in late April and continue his weekly volunteer work with the Salvation Army, which he commenced in early 2013 at the club’s behest.
“At the moment I’m devastated. I’m in a situation I never imagined I would be in and trying to work through the challenges of that while trying to play is something I’m struggling with,” Williams said.
“I made a mistake, and I’m sorry for that. I’ve attempted ever since to do the right thing and the right thing for me, my family, friends and everyone else is to have some time out.
“The strain on my family and the distraction this has created for the club is something I’m not comfortable with.”
Collingwood will continue to support Marley in every way it can, believing that the regrettable incident for which he was found guilty last week has had a profound effect on his life.
Marley has shown great remorse for what occurred and accepts responsibility for what he did.
Collingwood does not condone violence of any description, and does not want to understate what transpired, but over the past 15 months Marley has been an exemplary member of the football club.
Neither Collingwood nor Marley Williams will be making any further comment.
