The AFLPA, together with the AFL, wishes to advise players and officials from each Club participating in Week One of the Toyota AFL Finals Series will wear two black armbands.

The playing group of the AFL wishes to acknowledge the memory of Margaret Varcoe, sister of Travis Varcoe and Leo Sloane, baby son of Rory Sloane.

AFL Chief Executive Officer Gillon McLachlan said the player group and the competition as a whole extended their deepest sympathies.

“Our thoughts and love of all in our industry are with Travis, Rory and their respective families during this most difficult time,” Mr. McLachlan said.

“Some things go so far above this game we play and everything that goes with it.”

AFL Players’ Association Chief Executive Officer Paul Marsh said these tragic circumstances had been felt by the whole playing group, which was quick to accept the opportunity to pay their respects.

“The football industry does an incredible job to unite behind people who are going through adversity. Rory and Travis are two very popular members of the playing group and this gesture, albeit small, shows the level of respect players from across the competition have for each other,” Mr. Marsh said.

“I would like to also acknowledge Trent Cotchin who instigated this action. He contacted Gillon and I on Friday to float the idea and ask whether we could organise the players and clubs.

“Our thoughts continue to be with Rory and Travis and we’re here to support them now and into the future.”

The Geelong Football Club will also honour the life of former Geelong and Footscray 200-game player, Ian Hampshire, who recently passed away.