The suspension came after an incident during a recent match, where the trainer’s actions were deemed to have violated league protocols. However, Cleary believes the punishment is disproportionate and that his trainer was simply caught in a moment of urgency.
“He’s struggling. It’s been tough for him. It’s a situation where I don’t think he deserved such a harsh penalty,” Cleary said. “We all know the demands of the game, and in the heat of the moment, things can get misinterpreted. It’s not as if there was any malice or intent behind it.”
Cleary also stressed that the trainer’s contribution to the team’s success has been immense, and this suspension is a setback for the club. While some pundits have agreed that the NRL’s decision could have been more lenient, others have argued that consistency in enforcement is necessary for the integrity of the sport.
Despite the ban, Cleary remains committed to supporting his staff, ensuring that the team continues to focus on its upcoming matches. The Panthers are set to face a tough stretch of fixtures, and the absence of the trainer could have a significant impact on their preparations.
As for the trainer himself, sources close to the situation have stated that he’s still processing the emotional toll of the suspension, and will take time to reflect on the events that led to the penalty.
It remains to be seen whether the NRL will reconsider its decision, but for now, Cleary’s message is clear: the punishment was unjust, and his trainer deserves better.
