LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL has made a decision regarding Sydney Roosters Chairman Nick Politis and Director Mark Bouris after an investigation into an off-field incident involving a referee in Las Vegas.
Following a match between the LA Roosters and Brisbane Veterans, referee Mitchell James claimed that Politis and Bouris approached him on the sidelines and made comments about his refereeing.
James filed a complaint, alleging that he was subsequently removed from his role as touch judge in an international match between Greece and the USA after the incident with the two men.
Despite this, Politis and Bouris have not faced sanctions for their actions.
Instead, they have been reminded that they are not to approach match officials at any time.
In an email to NRL Head of Football Graham Annesley, James wrote, "Mr.
Mark Bouris and Mr.
Nick Politis confronted me." The NRL's Integrity Unit conducted an investigation into the incident and ultimately decided not to take any further action against Politis and Bouris.
The two men were issued a warning but were not disciplined for their behavior towards the referee.
The outcome of the investigation suggests that while their actions were concerning, they did not warrant formal sanctions.
The incident serves as a reminder to all individuals involved in the NRL to respect match officials and not to approach them during or after games.
The decision made by the NRL regarding Politis and Bouris reinforces the importance of maintaining respect for match officials in rugby league.
The reminder issued to the Roosters chairman and director emphasizes the expectations set for all individuals involved in the sport to conduct themselves appropriately and professionally at all times.
The incident in Las Vegas serves as a lesson for those in positions of power within NRL clubs to exercise restraint and refrain from inappropriate interactions with referees.