Sea Eagles in damage control on jersey snub
AN EMBARRASSED Manly coach, Des Hasler, has made an emotional apology to the LGBTQ movement – and seven of his own dissenting players – after admitting the club’s pride jersey fiasco was a “significant mistake”.
Hasler and Manly captain Daly Cherry-Evans held a tense yet passionate 24minute media conference at Brookvale Oval on Tuesday where “poor management” was blamed for the club’s failure to inform players about a decision to use rainbow jerseys
against the Sydney Roosters on Thursday night.
Seven players – Josh Aloiai, Jason Saab, Josh Schuster, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tolutau Koula, Christian Tuipulotu and Toafofoa Sipley – have stunned rugby league by standing down from the game, based on their religious beliefs, in protest.
Hasler also apologised to fellow NRL clubs and the ARL Commission for the drama, which has accidentally sabotaged this weekend’s Women in league round.
Manly’s jersey drama has become the biggest NRL story this season, with Anthony Albanese saying: “I certainly hope that this is resolved. It’s a good thing that sport is more inclusive.
“And it’s important that in Australian society, we respect everyone for who they are. All people, regardless of their faith, should be respected. That’s something I have always done. And something that my government will do as well.”
An online News Corp poll has attracted 11,000 votes, with 83 per cent of respondents stating Manly players should not have to wear the pride jumper on Thursday evening.
Manly co-owner and chairman Scott Penn admitted Manly management was aware of the jumpers being worn but that decision failed to reach the players.
“We are here to apologise for a significant mistake made by the Manly Sea Eagles football club,” Hasler said.
“We wish to apologise to the LGBTQ community who embrace the rainbow colours, to use these colours for pride, advocacy and human rights issues which have played an integral role in the inclusion and diversity of minority groups.”
ARLC chairman Peter V’landys said players had a right to decide against playing.
“One of the things I love about Australia is we have this freedom. We don’t live in Russia,” V’landys said.