@not_for_sale2024 wrote:
I understand your point of view David, but the issue is a little more complex.
Slater has been charged and is entitled to representation when he defends himself,
just as you and I would be. The club's lawyers will present a defence and a number
of issues will be taken into consideration. For example, whether the shoulder charge
was with intent, reckless and without consideration of the other player's safety. Slater
will also be provided the opportunity to state the alternatives he had at the time, while
charging at top speed to try and prevent a try. He is also entitled to protect himself from
possible injury.
Thank goodness the judiciary is sensible and will weigh up the evidence before ruling
on the charge. It would be a pretty sad world if our sports persons were not entitled
to reasonable justice and just had to cop the judgements of ruling bodies without
the opportunity to defend themselves.
They do get to defend themselves, every code has its disiplinary board who hears cases of 'aledged' offences.
umpires are called to give evidence, players are called to give evidence and players have 'lawyers'
what i'm complaining about is how often when the player is found guilty and given a penalty their club decides it wont accept that penalty and brings in 'the big guns' even to the point of taking matters to a real court!
my view is your part of a sport, you play under that sports rules and obey the decisions of the disiplinary board.
if you have a problem with punishments dished out you take it to 'board level'
but too often its bugga the rules, bugga the game, change the penalty because our player is a nice guy, has never dont it before and is really sorry, omg you want him to miss a grand final!
NO, just want him to play fair and when he doesnt take the penalty without complaining.
