LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Cameron Ciraldo, the Bulldogs coach, has spoken out following reports of a player walk-out over a training "punishment".
The player, who remains unnamed, was made to participate in a wrestling exercise known as "shark bait" after being late to training.
This involved grappling with 12 teammates in a ring.
The player was reportedly upset by the treatment and left training immediately.
The Rugby League Players' Association is aware of the situation and the player has not played at NRL level for several weeks.
Ciraldo defended his approach, stating, "We've gone through a range of ways of talking upholding standards.
Some of that's been monetary related, sometimes that's been spinning a wheel and then sometimes it's been trying to find ways to change behaviours.
The reality is, we need to change behaviours ...
we'll continue to find ways where we can change behaviours."
This incident adds to the challenges Ciraldo has faced in his tumultuous first year as Bulldogs coach.
Despite high-profile signings, including Ciraldo himself, the team is currently ranked 15th on the ladder with only one game left in the regular season.