SEN’s Scott Sattler has voiced his support for the NRL’s proposed ‘Respect Round’ and that naming several rounds after causes can dilute the meaning of them.
Rugby League chairman Peter V’landys suggested that if the NRL were to introduce themed rounds, it would introduce a ‘Respect Round’ rather than a ‘Pride Round’ as to not alienate people.
Sattler insisted that we did need themed rounds such as an Indigenous and Women in League round but adding more themed rounds could lessen the overall impact.
“I agree (with V’landys) because I think it does dilute (the causes) a little bit,” Sattler said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“We do try and find, on some occasions … we seem to just be finding a reason to get supporters to buy another jersey.
“We definitely need some of our celebrated rounds.
“I can see where the NRL are trying to go with that as well because a ‘Respect Round’ encompasses everything.
“(But) does it create further debate and further discussion? I’m not quite sure.”
V’landys and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo are also still in the hot seat over the ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations which have yet to be resolved.
Sattler said he holds fears for the Indigenous v Māori All Stars match going ahead as the players are still frustrated with the lack of progress.
“I’d be surprised if the All Stars game goes ahead to be honest,” Sattler added.
“The NRL have probably sat on their hands for too long on this and didn’t think that the players were that strong.
“V’landys and Abdo didn’t think that (RLPA CEO) Clint Newton had the support that they thought he would (but) the support is gathering a lot more strength.
“I’d be surprised if that All Stars game goes ahead.”
The Indigenous v Māori All Stars match is scheduled to be played on February 11 in Rotorua.