I dont think young blokes would go out and start fights because we signed him. But the timing of the signing is a bad look. And yes, he could spruik the good word to the youngsters, but there is a risk that they could take on board something similar to grouch's ramblings, and given our current league-topping rate of 1 assault per year, its a big risk.
I don't think it's so much the timing of the signing that's a bad look, it's the AFB incident that could possibly now bring into question our ability to control players and rehabilitate them. The AFB incident would have done more damage than the Packer signing. Afterall, the Packer announcement came before the incident.
As was mentioned somewhere (can't remember where exactly), we do have a good reputation for rehabilitation of players and would make us an attractive option if the NRL were to allow Packer to play again. And you have to admit, our track record in this area is pretty good.
However, now with the AFB incident, it brings into question our rep in this area and whether or not it is the right environment for Packer.
I would hardly call this a trend though. Every club has their player issues. If we had 4 or 5 incidents over the past few years it would be cause for concern - whether it be assaults or some other criminal conduct (drunk driving, public nuisance, domestic violence etc). That would indicate to me that it has become a breeding ground for that sort of behavior and that it was accepted as part of the culture. However 2 similar incidents relatively close together doesn't indicate a trend at this point in time. If during this year we see more incidents along these lines, then questions would need to be asked.
The fact that we stood down Garvey immediately and we have done the same with AFB shows club responsibility and acceptance that action needs to be taken. Unlike the Bulldogs and the Roosters in recent history, we aren't trying to hide these player actions and are making efforts to take control of the situation.
Finally, we know nothing about the incident itself. It's pointless being judge, jury and executioner without the facts. It's all speculation at the moment.
