‘I don’t agree with him but he’s a valued squad member’
WHILE the Waratahs don’t agree with Israel Folau that doesn’t mean he can’t be a valued member of the squad. That was the message of Waratahs chief executive Andrew Hore when asked about the star’s comments on gay people.
Southern Courier
Don't miss out on the headlines from Southern Courier. Followed categories will be added to My News.
WHILE the Waratahs don’t agree with Israel Folau that doesn’t mean he can’t be a valued member of the squad.
That was the message of Waratahs chief executive Andrew Hore when asked about the star’s comments on gay people.
“Look, the key word for us is inclusiveness,” the New Zealander said.
“As much as you may not agree with Israel’s view, the fact of the matter is that it is his view.
“You walk into any changing room or rugby club around this country, or any other country, because we are a multicultural and diverse sport there are going to be different views on race, politics, sexuality and religion.
“Just because someone has that view it doesn’t mean they’ve got two heads and four hands.”
Folau posted on Instagram earlier this year that God’s plan for gay people was hell if they didn’t repent. Hore said the club did not side with his view, nor did “the majority” of the squad.
Asked if it had caused fractures in the team, he said: “Not from what I have seen.”
“The debate was not about whether he had a view or not. The debate was about whether he was respectful in expressing his view. That’s all we ask of any player.”
Asked how Folau was copping with the backlash, he said: “He is very strong in his beliefs.
“When you are comfortable in your own skin and say ‘this is who I am,’ you can walk a bit more comfortable in life.
Commenting on the Waratahs’ Super Rugby season so far, Hore said the team was at a crossroads.
“We have shown we can compete with the New Zealand teams,” he said speaking before Saturday’s win against the Highlanders. “We need to keep knocking at that door.“