Players end boycott as long as they aren’t ambushed with rainbows next year
metro.co.ukrefused to play when their club introduced pride-themed jerseys may appear next season wearing them – ‘as long as they are consulted first’.The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles unveiled their rainbow-patterned shirts on Monday, saying the team wanted to show support for ‘inclusivity and diversity’.
Seven players sparked fury when they boycotted a key match against the Sydney Roosters, saying they wouldn’t wear the top due to ‘religious and cultural grounds’.They have reportedly been told to stay away from the grounds in New South Wales tonight for their own ‘safety and wellbeing’.But boss Scott Penn has since suggested a year of dialogue could produce different results.The players’ major concern was not necessarily the jersey itself, but the lack of discussion, in relation to their cutural and religious beliefs, before it was revealed in public, he claimed.‘I think they were somewhat frustrated that it went as far as it did without consultation, and we respect that’, he told 9News.‘We are all about inclusiveness, so we will continue this theme.’Mr Penn has stood by his decision to introduce the jersey, saying he wants to promote inclusivity for all.Yet, the board has announced a review into why all staff and players were not aware of the Pride-themed shirt before it was released publicly.The Sea Eagles plan to wear the rainbow next year – and the boycotters are said to have indicated that they will join in next time.‘Yes.
that’s the message they were very clear on – let’s work together’, Mr Penn said.Local media has identified the seven players as Josh Aloiai, Jason Saab, Christian Tuipulotu, Josh Schuster, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tolu Koula and Toafofoa Sipley.It comes after former Sea Eagles legend Ian Roberts – the first.
