Matt Lodge violence claims: Sponsors demand NRL does better
A NUMBER of National Rugby League sponsors and partners have expressed “deep dissatisfaction” with the code over the mishandling of Broncos footballer Matt Lodge’s domestic violence case.
NSW
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A NUMBER of National Rugby League sponsors and partners have expressed “deep dissatisfaction” with the code over the mishandling of Broncos footballer Matt Lodge’s domestic violence case.
The Sunday Telegraph last week revealed Lodge’s violence against his former partner Charlene Saliba — which including hitting, pushing and spitting — during their two-year relationship that culminated in Lodge pleading guilty to assault.
Our Watch, an organisation created to end violence against women and children, and with which Todd Greenberg signed a violence “leadership statement” two years ago, said it would now meet with the code’s executive.
It is also understood Telstra and other major partners of the NRL and Broncos have expressed concerns about the handling of Lodge’s domestic violence case.
When reinstating Lodge to the code, the NRL did not interview Ms Saliba.
Lodge was initially convicted and on appeal was given a two-year good behaviour bond that ends later this year.
Since returning to the game Lodge has consistently denied he “hit” Ms Saliba or any other woman.
The NRL, which does not have a domestic violence policy, has agreed to again meet with Our Watch.
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The NRL expressed a “strong commitment” to further meetings throughout the year with the code’s senior leadership.
A Telstra spokesman said: “We expect the executive management of the NRL and its Integrity Unit to hold all players to account for their behaviour at all times.”
Broncos sponsorship partners, including NRMA Insurance and Lion, have sought assurances after the extent of Lodge’s New York incident and then domestic violence history came to light.