NRL stars Cody Walker and Kotoni Staggs have launched a passionate defence of the Koori Knockout amid suggestions they should avoid it.
The annual rugby league carnival acts as a pilgrimage of sorts for Indigenous players from all levels, as well as families and wider fans.
But it’s attracted some unwanted headlines in recent weeks, largely due to Bulldogs and Origin superstar Josh Addo-Carr being filmed in a wild brawl at the tournament in October.
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There were also questions asked of Latrell Mitchell after he made a cameo appearance despite making himself unavailable for Kangaroos selection that same week.
Mitchell told critics to not “get it twisted”, and he found support in Australian coach Mal Meninga despite the latter being “surprised” to see the gun fullback-centre in action.
Speaking to 9News in Bathurst, where next year’s Koori Knockout will be staged, Walker said those who aren’t involved in the carnival don’t understand its purpose.
“I do get angry, because it’s certainly something that no one has ever asked me what I think about it,” Walker said.
“I think my track record is I’ve always given back to community.
“I can only speak for my team, but we have a dinner every night, we sit down and we talk… it’s all to do with laughter and creating a family environment where our kids are safe.”
Staggs said the Koori Knockout held a special place in his heart, and the Addo-Carr incident was an unfortunate, albeit isolated, incident.
“Before I even started playing NRL, this was the footy that made me who I am today,” Staggs told 9News.
“I don’t want people outside to think that (the Addo-Carr fight) is what the Knockout’s all about, because it’s not.
“It’s about getting out there and having fun, playing with your brothers, the ones you grew up with.
“That was just one incident that shouldn’t have (happened).”