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The debate about who is the toughest man in rugby league triggers passionate debate amongst fans. Names such as Clive Churchill, John Sattler, and Paul Harragon inevitably surface.
One candidate sure to raise a few eyebrows is David Gallop. David Gallop is without question the toughest man in modern day rugby league.
As the rugby league community close ranks after the airing of the ABC’s Four Corners program, the luckless CEO was again forced to face the scrutiny of an unforgiving media.
Since assuming the position of NRL CEO in February 2002, Gallop has presided over the most tumultuous period in the history of the code outside the Super League War of 1997.
His most frequent role has been in front of a camera expressing his disappointment at yet another off-field indiscretion.
Indeed, in his seven years in the position, Gallop has appeared on Australian television screens more times then South Sydney co-owner Russell Crowe. If Gallop were an NRL player, he would have already broken the 200 game barrier.
His is a record of endurance and strength, a career outlasting some of the game’s finest.
His involvement dates back to 1995, meaning he is now in his fifteenth season in rugby league, an admirable record for an administrator.
Gallop has never been afraid to make the tough decisions, which at times have alienated him from figures, both within and outside the game.
He docked the Bulldogs 37 premiership points in his first season in the top job, when it was revealed they were flouting the salary cap. He answered questions about the 2004 sex scandal, has dealt with numerous alcohol related incidents, and, with Brett Stewart, stood down the current face of the game.
Now Gallop faces his toughest decision yet. Should he step down from his position of CEO? He may be controversial and make mistakes, but he is a man of integrity.
He has acted always with the best interests of the game at heart. For his own health and wellbeing he should step down. The gaunt face that appeared on television in the last few days is not the face of a 43 year old.
Like the players who play the code he administers, the game has extracted a heavy price from its highest-ranking official. How much longer can Gallop tolerate the strain that the game is taking on his honour, reputation and intellect?
In the words of Jack Gibson, David, “you’ve played strong, done fine.”
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