Wonder where we might be if RA just simply came out and said that RA do not agree or endorse the views of Israel.
People would be upset for a bit and we'd probably have forgotten about it by now. The whole purpose of sacking him was to avoid a fallout to which it already is now.
Actually the whole point of his sacking was to reinforce the sport's values.
RAELENE CASTLE’S LETTER TO THE PLAYERS
“Dear Team Wallaby,
It has not been an easy week for us all in Rugby but it is a week that has reminded us that Rugby is an inclusive game and that it is – and needs to continue to be – a game for all. That has been an overwhelming message from so many people since we took action to deal with a breach of contract.
I want to again reinforce that message that our game is a game for all. I know that many of you have been put in a challenging situation over the past week. You have been asked to comment on a friend and a team-mate and that is a difficult situation – a situation none of us wanted to see happen and all of us hoped would not happen again.
The actions taken this week were taken because of a breach of commitment to team and code that was broken. I want to reassure you that we support the right of all players to hold personal beliefs. But we must uphold those values that are core to our game and to the Wallabies, including respect and team-work.
I understand that for many of our players of Faith this week has been a particularly challenging week and that some have felt unsure or challenged by the media and social media requests to comment on team-mates and what has happened. I am really proud of the leadership of those players who have asked me to explain the reasons behind our action and to reassure them of their right to belief.
I want to assure you all that I am proud of the diverse range of religions and belief systems within the Wallabies and the way players are able to present their views in a positive way. Rugby supports you and your right to belief. Nothing that has happened this week changes that.
When we talk about inclusiveness and talk about Rugby as an inclusive game, we mean that Rugby respects differences.
Respecting differences was a key point made by many of those players and officials who spoke out this week. Those messages of respect for differences were not always emphasized in the media coverage but it is important to note they were raised again and again as a key part of the success of the Wallabies and a key part of the success of Rugby as a sport in this country.
It is important that all people of different views, religions, beliefs and backgrounds feel safe and supported in coming together in the team environment and know that they are respected for who they are and what they believe.
It is not an easy time in Rugby and – as I said the other day – I would prefer that we had not been put in this situation.
I am intensely proud of our Wallabies and very grateful for the thoughts from all who have made contact. I am also very happy to chat to you individually if you have any specific concerns.
Congrats to the Reds for their win and all the best for the rest of the games today.
Raelene’’
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sp...s/news-story/ddc42dca475f191be96a3a6e240d3358
