Rod Churchill’s full Latrell Mitchell apology, offers to stand down from NRL grand final medal presentation

Rod Churchill could stand down from presenting his father’s medal at the grand final after issuing an apology for his criticism of Latrell Mitchell. READ THE FULL LETTER HERE

South Sydney star Latrell Mitchell. Picture: NRL PHOTOS

Rod Churchill has apologised for his shocking criticism of Rabbitohs superstar Latrell Mitchell and offered to stand down from presenting his father’s medal at the grand final.

The son of club legend Clive Churchill sent the apology in an email to South bosses Blakes Solly and Nick Pappas on Monday morning.

“I’m embarrassed that I’ve tarnished my dad’s reputation,” Churchill told this masthead.

“I can’t take things back that I’ve said but on reflection, I regret all my comments.

“My reaction was out of frustration and passion for the Rabbitohs.

“I went overboard and I’m deeply sorry.”

Churchill had described the South Sydney superstar as a “myth” a “cancer” on the club, an “embarrassment” and “overrated” in the most astonishing public attack on a player that I can recall.

BELOW: ROD CHURCHILL’S FULL APOLOGY LETTER TO LATRELL MITCHELL, SOUTH SYDNEY

Rod Churchill has apologised for his shocking criticism of Latrell Mitchell. Picture: NRL Photos

On Monday morning Churchill sounded shattered when we spoke about his weekend comments.

“I have apologised to the club, Latrell and all the players,” he said.

“One day I’d like to reach out to Latrell and apologise personally face to face.”

Churchill says he would understand if the NRL decides he should not hand out his father’s medal on grand final night.

“I don’t know if I’d be comfortable presenting it anyway considering the circumstances,” he said.

“As long as it stays the Clive Churchill in honour of my dad.”

Rod Churchill has offered to stand down from presenting his father’s medal at the grand final. Picture: Getty Images

Churchill spoke to the text message he sent Pappas earlier this year that was leaked to this masthead.

“I was in an emotional state but that’s no excuse,” he said.

“I shouldn’t have spoken about anyone like that.

“The text message was then leaked and we’re in a position now where it has caused hurt to a lot of people. I should have just kept everything to myself.”

Originally published as Rod Churchill’s full Latrell Mitchell apology, offers to stand down from NRL grand final medal presentation