FORMER Collingwood and Fremantle player John Anthony has been sacked by Stawell Warriors before playing a game for the club.

The 192cm forward was at the centre of an incident at the Gift Hotel in Stawell during last weekend’s Easter extravaganza, which has led to his departure.

Stawell president Tim Williams confirmed Anthony’s dismissal on Thursday.

"We can confirm Stawell Football Club has severed ties with John Anthony effective immediately," Williams told AFL.com.au.

"The club will not make any further comment at this point in time."

Stawell Football Netball Club competes in the Wimmera Football League.

Anthony played 51 AFL games - 43 for Collingwood and eight for Fremantle - while his 50 goals in 2009 helped Collingwood reach that year’s preliminary final.