Rugby league players need minders

Roar Rookie

21st April, 2014

1284 Reads

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Brett Stewart was in la-a land after the 2008 grand final - so much so he thought he won. (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)

SeaEaglesAreGo new author

Roar Rookie

21st April, 2014

1284 Reads

Once again my Manly men are in the spotlight. Firstly, for their very controversial win over the Cowboys on Friday night and secondly, with Brett Stewart charged this morning with low range DUI.

I am in no way excusing Stewart, I am actually sacrificing small furry critters to the NRL Gods, thanking them that the news headlines didn’t read “Brett Stewart charged with DUI after being involved in car crash, killing”.

Now, I have no power over Friday night’s decision-making process. Conspiracy or not, we got the two points, however I do have a suggestion on how we can keep our players from being their own worst enemies.

I am also not excusing any other player from breaking the law. There have been numerous examples in the last few years – Mitchell Allgood, Todd Carney, Willie Mason, Reni Maitua, James Tamou, Blake Ferguson, Josh Dugan and Greg Bird are the ones that come immediately to mind.

I have been saying for a few years, to anyone that takes five minutes to listen to me, that these guys are on a huge amount of money. They earn really good dollars, and like it or not they are role models.

Now here is my idea – why don’t the clubs employ minders? Yes, I am actually suggesting they have babysitters on the pay role. Goodness knows we have ex-military personnel crying out for meaningful employment.

Employ them. Their role would be security-based. They could drive the player(s) where ever they need to go. Keep them sober and vigilant and, if things look like getting out of hand, tell them it’s time to go home or somewhere else.

We have unemployment issues. I know a dozen or more Manly supporters that would give their eye to drive Manly players around, not to mention actually getting paid for the privilege. I am certain it would be the same at all other clubs.

I am in no way suggesting I have the answer, but could it be an answer?

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