LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Sydney Roosters are facing uncertainty over Brandon Smith's future at the club after the Kiwi hooker missed a crucial team meeting.
Coach Trent Robinson has shed light on how the seasoned players in the team took Smith under their wing to set him straight.
Smith, who still has a year left on his hefty contract, was issued a breach notice and dropped from the weekend game against Parramatta as a consequence of his actions.
Robinson revealed that the senior players had a heart-to-heart with Smith, delivering some tough love and hard truths about his behavior.
The coach expressed concern that Smith may not fully grasp the gravity of the game and its importance, hinting at possible behavioral issues that have rubbed some players the wrong way.
Robinson emphasized the importance of discipline in driving significant change within the team, likening it to the tough love of a parent.
By imposing a hefty fine and arranging a meeting with the club leaders, Robinson aimed to send a message to Smith and instill a sense of responsibility in the player they had high hopes for after snatching him from the Melbourne Storm.
It's evident that the Roosters are focused on building trust and loyalty within their ranks, using tough love as a tool to keep their players in line.