In determining his sentence, the magistrate considered Balta's age, lack of prior convictions, and genuine remorse, despite the serious nature of the offense.

The AFL and Richmond Football Club face criticism for their handling of the situation, with community leaders, including Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, questioning the league's accountability.

This incident highlights the challenges the AFL faces in maintaining public trust and enforcing discipline among players, especially when their actions conflict with community standards.

CCTV footage presented in court showed Balta shoulder-charging Washbrook and delivering multiple punches, leading to a three-centimeter cut on Washbrook's forehead and a suspected rib fracture.

Prosecutors characterized the assault as a high-level offense with the potential risk of serious injury or death to the victim.

Balta expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging that he has 'let a lot of people down' and stating that 'violence is never the answer' in a public apology.

Richmond defender Noah Balta was sentenced on April 22, 2025, after pleading guilty to assault, resulting in a court-imposed curfew that will prevent him from playing in at least four upcoming games.

The assault occurred on December 30, 2024, outside the Mulwala Water Ski Club in New South Wales, where Balta repeatedly punched a man named Washbrook, who was trying to intervene in a dispute involving Balta's younger brother.

As part of his sentencing, Balta received an 18-month community correction order, a fine of $3,000, and was ordered to pay $45,000 in compensation to his victim, along with a prohibition on entering the Mulwala Ski Club and abstaining from alcohol.

Balta will miss at least four games, including a round 12 match against Greater Western Sydney, due to travel restrictions from his curfew.

Balta's defense argued that the incident was out of character and attributed it to excessive alcohol consumption and a protective reaction towards his brother.

The AFL has not finalized the schedule for Richmond's games beyond round 15, which may be affected by Balta's sentencing and the imposed curfew.