Warriors have committed to staying in the NRL in the face of coronavirus pandemic and new closed-border laws that threaten to lock out their families.
Chief executive Cameron George told journalists in Auckland that the players had decided to stay beyond this Saturday’s game against Canberra on the Gold Coast, despite the disruption it was causing to their lives.
“The entire squad is locked in and ready to go,” George said.
“They understand the issues that different individuals got on the table. But they’re sticking together. The NRL have called on us and we’ve stepped up to the task.”
Players risk being stuck away from their families indefinitely after the Australian government locked all non-citizens or residents out of the country in response to coronavirus.
While there had been plans to fly families from New Zealand and serve a 14-day isolation period, that has now been thrown into doubt by the new rules.
The Warriors are in camp in Kingscliff, having initially thought they were only leaving New Zealand for the weekend when they travelled to play Newcastle last week.
“If we were told to leave your family and live in another country for an indefinite period, not many would … we’re very proud of the players,” George said.
“The deciding factor was that it’s our time to be leaders in the community and rugby league … we’re gonna stand tall and be leaders and take it on.”
The New Zealand government enforced a 14-day isolation period for overseas passengers last Saturday, ending any hope of NRL games being played there during the virus.
Players were left in tears during a Saturday night meeting with NRL boss Todd Greenberg, where they agreed to remain in Australia to help the competition.
But players at that point largely believed they could have their families by their side, before Australia also enacted a 14-day isolation period and the latest arrivals ban.
The NRL has previously stated they could continue the competition with 15 teams, however it would likely take a rejig of bye rounds and an effort to make matches back up.
The league have had a number of back-up plans on the table, with numerous discussed at an ARLC board meeting on Thursday.
Nick
Roar Guru
Yes - particularly the support staff. Most are on peanuts compared to the players.
Nick
Roar Guru
It's also a LONG way from NZ in case of emergencies as well.
Albo
Roar Rookie
Kia Ora ! All brave Warriors !
Johnny Chen
Guest
Thank you Warriors! Now you are forgiven for your part in Super League
Verfel
Roar Rookie
Yes, that would be a bonus for NZ fans!
Adam
Roar Guru
Or even getting them onto free to air tv once in a blue moon!
jimmmy
Roar Rookie
Good for you and the Warriors. An incredible sacrifice. They are training down my neck of the woods and while it may only be by some writing on a sign, I will let them know how grateful we are.
Pickett
Roar Rookie
Oh yeah....duh me! :happy:
Paul
Roar Guru
I hope the NRL recognises the sacrifices the Warriors team and support staff are making and reward them in some way, even if it's just a huge vote of thanks at the Dally M or on GF day.
Paul
Roar Guru
Great idea but can't get fans into the games.
Footy Fan
Guest
Great spirit and commitment from the warriors players and club. Facing some disadvantage, but getting on without grumbling, and acting to minimise risk. Appreciate their champion attitude! May they have a great season and be granted a few breaks by the NRL, community and governments. For those facing the virus directly, may everything go your way and you have all the support and care possible. For the vulnerable, know that we're all committed to minimising spread and getting in control down the track.
Pickett
Roar Rookie
Good on you Warriors. Can they be based in Perth? Good way to test the waters there for a Perth based team in the future.?
E-Meter
Roar Rookie
That's an incredible gesture. It won't be forgotten.
Verfel
Roar Rookie
I'm very proud to be a staunch WARRIORS fan! I commend them all for committing to this season, by staying here in Australia without their families, so they can keep the competition going for all! So please support them even tho they may lose every game, they are here and probably in need of a hug....so cheer them on and let the best team on the day win.