The Rugby League Players Association says Mitchell Pearce’s welfare must be the priority as the Sydney Roosters half focuses on getting his life back on track.
The Club has fined Pearce and suspended him for 8 weeks in the wake of the public release of a video filmed on Australia Day.
“These matters are always extremely difficult to deal with for all those involved,” said RLPA CEO, Ian Prendergast.
“Our focus has been on working with the Sydney Roosters and the NRL to ensure Mitch’s wellbeing remained the priority throughout and that a fair process was followed,” said Prendergast.
“Whilst people will have different views about the penalty imposed, it now allows Mitch a period of time to focus on getting his life and football career back on track.”
Prendergast said the suspended portion of the penalty is additional motivation for Pearce, who has already indicated his determination to rebuild both his personal and professional reputation.
“It’s important our players and the public understand that fifty thousand dollars of the fine has been suspended, so it is effectively a 75 thousand dollar fine, with Mitch being on full pay throughout the 8 week period,” said Prendergast.
“Mitch has shown genuine remorse and taken full responsibility following his actions, actions that have also caused him embarrassment and humiliation,” said Prendergast also noting that Pearce has also been removed from the role of Captain and from the Roosters’ leadership group for 2016.
The RLPA will continue working with the Roosters Club to ensure Pearce’s wellbeing is protected and that he has all the support he needs.
“This is a life transition for Mitch and we all need to work together to make sure it’s a success,” said Prendergast.
