I am sure most of us feel a huge sense of relief that no matter what comes out in the media our club has taken its medicine is now clean to move forward. How good does that feel!!! Maybe even the most compliant in the competition. That doesn't mean there isn't more work to do. Especially for the team lead by BA. The culture at the club and who it attracts will shape its future. Thank goodness we have BA to shape that within the team. Thank goodness he has prepared them for adversity and resilience and they continue to make us all proud in their on field performance. Its staff and fans will need the same resilience...... no matter what is written about it, its players, fans etc. We will always have the attention of the media. So what........ we know our points now :).
Much has also been written about the impact that the gambling associations have on the game. Many have questioned the NRL leaderships decisions on making the NRL a gambling cash cow and coffer filler. Many are tired of having gambling and spot betting ads repeatedly shoved in the faces of our kids over and over again. The head of Sportsbet herself is stating that "in the game advertising should be banned". My 5 yr old keeps asking me what a multi builder is. Had to explain it has nothing to do with Bob The Builder and "No son, it isn't a toy you can get at McDonalds" Seriously.
See link below in relation to the landmark investigation and court action in regards to Tabcorp. If they themselves have a system that attracts money laundering and breaches the anti laundering and terror financing regulations, does not report, pays bribes to foreign officials etc....... what are they, and therefore the NRL attracting to the great sport of Rugby League? What will it be like it 10 yrs from now if nothing changes? Nothing at all against gambling. I personally love a punt. I am against the lack of leadership, management foresight and safety that the NRL leadership has made and continues to make in this space. Dodgy, breeds Dodgy. Corruption needs corrupt individuals to flourish and the young players of today and tomorrow will always be the easy target of organised crime as is happening now. Look at the commentary role models on TV and so called immortals and their own associations. It isn't an accident......and don't the media love dodgy!!! A self perpetuating and financing model is building around our game. To a point that one day all will say that NRL can't survive without gambling sponsorship / ownership. Many claim that already. When that happens I feel for the challenges that will face coaches like BA in managing the stars of tomorrow......but as of today...... he is doing an amazing job. We better keep him!!!
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Sports betting is here to stay whether we like it or not. It is not illegal and 100's of millions of people around the world punt. Society has all types of people in it, it does not matter what the rules are for any given Industry. There are always people who will look to bend, break & stretch the rules for personal gain. It doesn't matter whether it's Blue collar crime, Sports betting, criminal activity it is always about personal gain for an individual or individuals.