Manly coach Des Hasler has given a passionate apology for the club’s botched “execution” of its pride jersey, which he described as a “significant mistake”.
Hasler has confirmed seven players will sit out Thursday’s match against the Roosters, but said it would be “inappropriate” to reveal their names. Manly’s squad for the match will be announced on Tuesday afternoon, with Hasler promising a side “that will be competitive.”
He said he accepted the players’ decision to sit out the match and said there will be an “internal review” to establish what went wrong.
READ MORE: Gallen rips Manly over forgotten victims of jersey saga
READ MORE: New twist in Wests Tigers refereeing furore
READ MORE: Richmond urged to consider unthinkable move
“We are here today to apologise for a significant mistake made by the Manly club,” Hasler said.
“The change to our traditional jersey was the application of the rainbow colours. The intent was to represent diversity and inclusion to embrace all groups who feel marginalised and face discrimination.
Stream the NRL premiership 2022 live and free on 9Now
“Sadly, the execution of what was intended to be an extremely important initiative was poor.”
Hasler said the players were not included in discussions around the decision to wear the jersey. He pointed to club management as the source of the issue that led to the farcical situation the Sea Eagles now find themselves in.
“There was little consultation or collaboration with key stakeholders, both inside and outside the club,” he admitted.
“This poor management has caused significant confusion, discomfort and pain for many people, in particular those groups whose human rights we were attempting to support.
“We have even adversely impacted our playing group, a wonderful group of people comprising many different racial and cultural backgrounds.
“We wish to sincerely apologise for the mistakes we have made.
“Our intent was to be caring and compassionate towards all groups who face inclusion issues daily. Instead of enhancing tolerance and acceptance, we may have hindered this. This was the opposite of our intent.
“I truly hope that the communities, the NRL, our players and our staff can accept our apology.”
Hasler said the club had discussions with the NRL over whether or not to withdraw the jersey, but will wear it on Thursday against the Roosters.
He said the club must embrace former Sea Eagles forward Ian Roberts, the first openly gay rugby league player.
“I personally played with Ian Roberts, and wholeheartedly admire his contribution to the game. He was an ornament. He is a great man, and a great citizen of our society. The role he has played at our club, the NRL and the community cannot be understated,” Hasler said.
“We must continue to seek out his guidance and opinions.
“Whilst we have come a long way as a society, there is still much work to be done, particularly in education, and that includes the NRL.”
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!