2013 Essendon Football Club season

Supplements controversy

On February 5 the Essendon Football Club asked Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) to investigate the concerns over the clubs possible use of un-approved supplements during the 2012 season.
An Independent review conducted by Dr. Ziggy Switkowski regarding the Essendon Football Club governance processes was released to the public on May 6.
CEO Ian Robson hands in his resignation on May 23. He is replaced by former Tatts Group CEO and Essendon board member Ray Gunston as the interim CEO.
Chairman David Evans resigns citing health issues on July 27. Former Toll Holdings Managing Director and Essendon board member Paul Little is elected to replace him as the new Essendon Chairman.
On August 27, the AFL charged the Essendon Football Club with breaking "Rule 1.6 - engaging in conduct that is unbecoming or likely to prejudice the interests or reputation of the Australian Football League or to bring the game of football into disrepute". There have been no player sanctions from ASADA, whose investigation is still ongoing.

The following charges were handed down against club and personnel:

$2,000,000 fine

Club forfeits place in finals and deemed to have finished 9th

Loss of First and Second Round draft selections in 2013 and 2014 draft

Club receives end of First Round selection in 2014 draft

James Hird, Head Coach - 12-month suspension (backdated to August 25, 2013)

Danny Corcoran, Football Manager - 6-month suspension (two months of which is suspended for a period of two years)

Mark Thompson, Senior Assistant - $30,000 fine

Dr. Bruce Reid, Club Doctor - charges dropped

Round 1

The three teams in each pool play each other in games of two 20 minute halves, with all three games being played over a three-hour period at the one venue.