Former Melbourne Demons recruit Daniel Hayes suing AFL, coach over alleged rape as club junior

Warning: This story comprises particulars and content material that some readers might discover distressing.

A former Melbourne Demons recruit is suing the AFL and a former coach of his from a junior soccer league, who he alleges sexually assaulted him after a recreation when he was a teen.

Daniel Hayes alleges that his former assistant coach of the Jap Ranges, Mark Heaney, obtained him drunk after which raped him whereas Hayes was at a barbeque at Heaney's home when he was 17.

Daniel Hayes alleges that his former assistant coach of the Jap Ranges, Mark Heaney, obtained him drunk after which raped him when he was 17.(9)

"I put loads of belief into Mark," Hayes informed 9News.

Heaney has publicly denied the claims and no costs have been laid.

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Hayes was drafted to the Demons in 2006 following the alleged assault, however was delisted after repeatedly not turning as much as coaching.

The 34-year-old father of 5 has survived three suicide makes an attempt because the alleged assault and turned to medication and alcohol to manage.

"I hit all-time low, I've obtained 5 youngsters who I do not see," he mentioned.

Hayes is suing each Heaney and the AFL because the operator of the Jap Ranges.

He's searching for monetary compensation to cowl the earnings he may have made as an AFL participant, in addition to medical prices to enhance his psychological well being.

"It derailed every little thing, I walked out of my dream," Hayes mentioned.

His legal professionals declare the AFL didn't uphold their responsibility of care to Hayes.

"The AFL had an obligation of care to guard Daniel and an obligation of care to ensure he was secure whereas trusting them to assist him by way of his skilled profession," lawyer Aleksandar Dukovski mentioned.

Hayes says he simply desires justice, and to be a voice for different younger males who might have gone by way of an identical factor.

"I blamed myself for many of my life, and I can not do it no extra."

Victoria Police says an investigation into the matter stays ongoing.

Assist is obtainable from the Nationwide Sexual Assault, Home Household Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

Readers searching for help can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or past blue on 1300 22 4636