LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo has sent a reminder to clubs about refraining from commenting on decisions made by officials after games.
This crackdown on post-match criticism has been supported by Roosters coach Trent Robinson, who believes that coaches need to be careful about what they say to avoid negative media attention.
Robinson is open to the idea of extending this stricter stance to commentators as well, suggesting that constant criticism of referees should be toned down.
The decision to eliminate Graham Annesley's weekly media briefings, where contentious on-field calls were explained, coincides with the increased emphasis on maintaining a positive image of the sport.
Robinson, who has been fined in the past for his post-match comments, acknowledges the significance of engaging with NRL officials in the right manner.
He recognizes the influence that coaches and commentators have on shaping the conversation around the game, particularly in a post-match setting.
"We get a good platform post-match, and people do watch that, so I understand we have to be careful in what we say," Robinson stated.
The aim of this crackdown is to prevent negative coverage that can trickle down to grassroots footy, ultimately impacting the overall perception of the sport.
While coaches were relatively well-behaved last year, the NRL is taking proactive measures to ensure that this trend continues.
By reminding clubs of the importance of maintaining professionalism in their interactions with officials, the league hopes to uphold the integrity of the game and promote a more respectful discourse surrounding referee decisions.
Ultimately, by setting clear expectations for coaches and commentators, the NRL is working towards cultivating a more positive and constructive dialogue within the rugby league community.