In a courtroom scene that has left Australia reeling, the parents of convicted rapist Tom Silvagni broke down in tears outside Melbourne County Court on December 6, 2025, vowing to “stand by our son no matter what” just moments after his victim branded him “evil” and detailed the devastating impact of his attack on her life. Stephen Silvagni, the Carlton AFL Hall of Famer, and his wife Jo were seen embracing in the corridor, faces etched with anguish, as they faced media scrutiny following the jury’s guilty verdict on two counts of rape. The emotional display came immediately after the 22-year-old victim delivered a powerful statement, describing Silvagni as a “monster” whose actions had “shattered my soul and stolen my future.”

Tom Silvagni, 25, the youngest son of the Silvagni football dynasty and grandson of legend Sergio Silvagni, was convicted after a two-week trial for assaulting the woman at the family home in 2024. The victim, who cannot be named, recounted attending a social gathering before Silvagni isolated her and ignored her pleas. “He laughed when I said no—like it was a game,” she said, voice steady but eyes filled with pain. “He destroyed my trust in people, my sense of safety—my life as I knew it.” Judge Gregory Lyon remanded Silvagni in custody, stating imprisonment was inevitable, with sentencing in February 2026.

Outside court, Stephen—now St Kilda’s list manager—and Jo clung to each other, Stephen whispering “We’ll get through this” amid flashes. “He’s our boy—we love him,” Jo told reporters, tears streaming. The family’s support contrasts sharply with the victim’s isolation, her statement highlighting ongoing trauma: therapy, nightmares, and fear of public spaces.

The case has rocked the AFL community, with Carlton severing ties post-delisting. Fans are divided: some empathize with parental love, others condemn “enabling privilege.” #JusticeForVictim trends alongside calls for accountability in sports.

As Silvagni awaits sentence, his parents’ vow stands firm—but the victim’s words echo louder: evil’s shadow lingers.