Fletcher stripped of captaincy, fined
4 July 2005
Bryan Fletcher was today stripped of the South Sydney captaincy and fined $10,000 for a racial slur against Parramatta's Dean Widders.
Fletcher, who made the remark to Widders during yesterday's match between the Eels and Souths, was also suspended from his club's match this weekend and ordered to assist Widders in his work with the Aboriginal community.
Of the $10,000 fine, $5000 will be suspended and the rest paid to an Aboriginal charity of Widders' choosing.
A contrite Fletcher apologised for the racial taunt at a media conference in Redfern today.
"I apologise unreservedly for comments I made to Dean Widders in yesterday's game," Fletcher said.
"The comments were totally unacceptable and for that I am sorry.
"My actions have set a very poor example for kids who follow rugby league and these type of comments cannot be tolerated in our game.
"It is not in my character to make these type of comments and I admit I made a huge mistake. What was said was in the heat of the battle however it is inexcusable and I fully accept the consequences of my actions."
Fletcher said he'd been friends with Widders for about 10 years and spoke to the Eels' forward last night to issue a personal apology.
Rabbitohs' chief executive Shane Richardson said Fletcher's actions were totally unacceptable.
"They certainly are out of character and he is showing great remorse for his comments," Richardson said.
"However, a clear message needs to be sent that this type of racial taunt is unacceptable."
Fletcher described the incident as easily the lowest point in his career.
Hmmm...I wonder what he said? Heat of the battle my arse! I HATE when they use that excuse!