ARLC boss Peter V’landys says wayward Sharks star Josh Dugan should have learned from his previous mistakes, in the wake of his massive fine for a second breach of COVID-19 protocols.
Dugan has been hit with a breach notice that proposes a $50,000 fine, after he was caught by police driving to Lithgow, west of Sydney.
It was his second offence in two months, after he’d been fined $25,000 for attending a restaurant.
“I think there’s anger in the whole community, people should learn from their mistakes,” V’landys told Radio 2GB’s Ben Fordham.
“Life is a bunch of experiences, and you need to learn from the ones that you do wrong, and unfortunately Josh hasn’t.
“Josh is a really good guy, and I don’t want to say anything bad about him, but he has some breaches that he should have learned from.”
Dugan was caught last Friday at Lithgow, 150 kilometres from his home, in contravention of the public health orders.
He was instructed by police to return home, but was caught again 40 minutes later driving away from Sydney.
But V’landys insists that the overwhelming majority of NRL players continue to do the right thing.
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“One per cent doesn’t represent the 99 per cent, and we are disappointed that they continue to contravene these protocols and even the community health orders,” he said.
“He’s got his opportunity to answer the breach notice, I don’t want to tarnish or corrupt the process. It’s certainly disappointing.”
Dugan has been charged with two counts of not complying with public health orders. He will face Lithgow Local Court on Thursday, October 7.
Former teammate Paul Gallen said earlier this week that the latest drama is likely to end Dugan’s NRL career.
“The thing about Josh Dugan is he’s now 31 years of age and off contract,” Gallen said on Nine’s 100% Footy.
“Unfortunately throughout his career, he’s had minor issues, nothing too bad, but minor issues.
“I think Josh has played his last game in the NRL. I think his next move will be Super League or retirement.”
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