It’s time to tackle abusers
MELBOURNE Storm star Ryan Papenhuyzen has called on elite sporting administrators to “crack down” on disgruntled gamblers that target players with death threats and abuse on social media.
Papenhuyzen (below) opened up on Monday about the toll the regular social media attacks have on players.
It comes after the 22-yearold Origin hp hopeful fully endorsed
Brisbane Lions midfielder Mitch Robinson taking to Twitter to lash “idiot” punters.
“Not one AFL player gives a flying f*** how we cost you a $100 multi, it’s $5 bet you idiot,” Robinson posted on Twitter.
“If you’re struggling with that amount please don’t punt in the first place.”
Papenhuyzen, who was among a host of big-name footballers to retweet Robinson on Monday, said no athletes would be surprised to get death threats and abuse after a loss or bad performance.
“I think the majority would have,” Papenhuyzen said.
“It is (a worry) but probably gets swept under the carpet.
“It makes you a bit of a target if you do go at it (respond) … I think it’s for the people higher up to figure out and crack down on it.
“If we say something it usually comes back to bite us on the bum.”
Papenhuyzen will turn his focus to football when he returns to face the Roosters on Thursday night at the SCG after being managed last week.
But the Storm are resigned to being without marquee players Cameron Smith (shoulder) and Cameron Munster (knee). Munster is expected to miss two to three weeks with a grade-two medial ligament strain.
Meanwhile, Storm utility Tom Eisenhuth has inked a two-year contract extension.