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Former Canterbury Bulldogs forward Reni Maitua recently issued a powerful plea on his podcast, urging current and future NRL players to stay out of trouble and make better choices.

“Don’t even do your best [to not get in trouble]. Don’t. Don’t get in trouble,” he said.

His message is simple but profound —being prudent isn’t just about protecting your career; it’s about safeguarding your future, and that of your families and the broader community. This year alone, we’ve witnessed too many players disregard this crucial piece of advice.

Scandals

The recent incidents involving NRL players Ezra Mam and Josh Addo-Carr highlight a pressing issue within Rugby League a culture that often glorifies reckless behaviour at the expense of responsible decision-making.

Mam, allegedly failing a roadside drug test after a car crash that saw him and three others taken to the hospital, and Addo-Carr, who returned two positive drug tests one week before his side’s first finals game since 2016, are stark reminders of how quickly things can go wrong.

A few moments of poor judgment — whether it’s a wild night out, risky behaviour, or simply a lack of caution — can lead to life-altering consequences.

The tragic reality is that the repercussions of these poor choices extend beyond the individual player. Families bear the burden of loss, teammates feel the impact, and entire communities can suffer.

The destruction of a player’s career can also mean the destruction of relationships, aspirations, and stability for those who care about them.

This is a sobering truth that needs to be at the forefront of conversations around NRL. It’s time for a cultural shift within the code.

Practical Steps

To foster a healthier environment, the NRL and clubs need to adopt a proactive approach that prioritises education and support over the glorification of an irresponsible lifestyle.

This includes implementing comprehensive programs that focus on responsible decision-making and the consequences of risky behaviour. Clubs should invest in workshops that provide players with the tools to manage fame, stress, and the temptations that come with being in the spotlight.

Additionally, mentorship programs could connect younger players with former athletes like Maitua, who have navigated similar challenges. These mentors can share their experiences and lessons learned, demonstrating that success isn’t solely measured by on-field performance, but also by the choices made off it.

Encouraging open dialogues about the pressures players face and the importance of making wise decisions can help shift the narrative from one that celebrates wild decisions to one that values discernment.

Moreover, clubs can work to create a culture of accountability, where players feel supported in making responsible choices. This means promoting team values that discourage reckless behaviour and encourage personal responsibility, fostering an environment where players look out for one another.

If the NRL wants to continue producing role models, it must emphasise values of responsibility and discernment over the dangerous allure of a wild night out. Ultimately, the future of these players and the sport depends on this cultural shift.

This isn’t just about preserving an entertainer’s career — it’s about preserving lives and the integrity of the sport.

By taking decisive action, the NRL can help ensure that players not only succeed in their careers but also lead fulfilling lives, positively impacting those around them.