An investigation into Canterbury's Mad Monday saga has reached a conclusion, with the Australian Rugby League and the Bulldogs saying that obscene comments heard from a window at Belmore Sports Ground were not directed towards a female reporter positioned outside.
In a joint statement the Bulldogs, the losing grand finalists nine days ago, said they would contribute $30,000 to a nominated charity as a result of their "contrition" over their handling of celebrations at their Belmore base the next day.
However, they declined to name any players or staff as having made the comments, broadcast by Channel Nine, and said that they were not directed at the network's reporter, Jayne Azzopardi, who was with a crew outside the venue.
The Bulldogs players celebrating Mad Monday. Photo: Mick Tsikas
Canterbury said the comments were made as part of sledging between players and had been misinterpreted as abuse of a female journalist.
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“After completing a thorough investigation, I am now aware of every comment made," Bulldogs chief executive Todd Greenberg said.
"I am aware of every person that comments were attributed to and the context in which those comments were made. The players and staff have all been forthcoming with the information and honest in their discussions.
Jayne Azzopardi.
“It is clear that there were a number of inaccuracies in the media reporting but the players are gutted and are deeply concerned that language used within the room has been interpreted as having been directed to the media.
“There was a lot of sledging going on between the players and they used language that was inappropriate.
“This is something that the whole club, the players and administration, have to take responsibility for and that is why the whole club will make a contribution to an NRL nominated charity.
“It would not be helpful or fair to single any one name out and it can only produce a result that will be disproportionate with the actions of any individual."
ARLC interim chief executive Shane Mattiske said the management of the post grand final function was "inappropriate".
“Regardless of arguments about who the statements were directed towards the language used was offensive, threatening and open to interpretation by anyone in hearing range," Mattiske said.
“We accept that the club has recognised this and their contribution to a nominated charity partner demonstrates a suitable outcome for all parties.”
Greenberg agreed the Bulldogs could have handled the episode better and regretted damage to the club's brand.
