100% Warrior wrote:Although I agree with your point regarding players and alcohol - even the best need a little time to relax. Yes, they're representing Wigan RL at all times, even when out on the lash and thus should act accordingly, which you'll find the vast majority do so and do themselves no harm. Only a minority make a show of themselves and put the club in a poor light.
I'm not saying they should all go out on the lash and encourage a 'party animal lifestyle' among the team - but surely they should be allowed to enjoy themselves, within good reason?
To be honest, these are two slightly different points.
The health risk from heavy drinking is not quantifiable by someone like me - I have only basic medical training. But I'm sure it will hamper performance at some stage. As I say, many athletes abstain entirely, presumably on the advice of experts, which means that others are ignoring such advice. But that's up to them. They will be the main sufferers.
The embarrassment risk is not the same. I agree that only a handful cause problems for the image of their club when they go out partying. But unfortunately, it only takes a handful - in fact it only takes one - to make the headlines. I certainly wouldn't stop players relaxing and socialising, but going down King Street is surely a no-no. There are all kinds of idiots down there just looking to cause trouble for 'famous people' (and maybe to make a bob on the side). Enough rugby and football players have found this out by now. Personally, I'd advise them to find a more sedate environment - some posh hotel or nightclub somewhere, where there are less temptations to cut loose.
But, at the end of the day, these decisions must be made by the players themselves. I don't believe in bans or prohibitions for adults. But one thing I do have a problem with is this crass notion, which seems to be regularly aired on this board, that "they're just a bunch of young lads letting off steam, and they should be allowed to do exactly what they want" - and presumably to hell with the consequences.
Fun doesn't come before responsibility for anyone, but especially not for those who are set up as role-models.