LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Newcastle Knights CEO Philip Gardner is facing backlash after making a sexist remark during the club's annual awards night.
Gardner, who also serves as the CEO of Wests Group, was giving a speech at the Danny Buderus Medal when he concluded with a quote often attributed to Winston Churchill.
"A good speech should be like a woman's skirt," Gardner said, "Long enough to cover the subject but short enough to keep you interested."
The comment did not sit well with the audience, which included Fox League's Lara Pitt who was hosting the event.
The audience had just heard Gardner speak about the significance of the Knights' NRLW side to the club's future.
Gardner's remark was deemed inappropriate and offensive, drawing criticism from fans and the wider rugby league community.
Sexist comments have no place in any professional setting, let alone a sporting event that aims to celebrate achievements and promote inclusivity.
The Newcastle Knights have made significant progress on the field this season, achieving their best finish since 2006.
However, Gardner's gaffe has overshadowed their success and brought negative attention to the club's leadership.
It is crucial for individuals in positions of power to be mindful of their words and the impact they can have.
Gardner's remark undermines the efforts made to promote equality and respect within the rugby league community.
The incident serves as a reminder that sexism still persists and highlights the need for continued education and awareness to eradicate such behavior.
The Newcastle Knights have not yet publicly addressed the incident, but it is expected that appropriate action will be taken to address the issue and ensure that such remarks are not repeated in the future.
The club's reputation is at stake, and it is essential that they handle the situation with sensitivity and accountability.
In conclusion, Philip Gardner's sexist gaffe during the club's annual awards night has caused significant controversy and criticism.
The remark was offensive and inappropriate, undermining the progress made towards gender equality in rugby league.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting respect and inclusivity in all aspects of the sport.