Dragons Fine and Suspend Apologetic
Gasnier

The St.George Bank Dragons have fined and suspended a shattered and apologetic Mark Gasnier after he was dismissed from the NSW State of Origin team today.

Dragons Chief Executive Officer Peter Doust met with Gasnier, 22, this afternoon after he was replaced in the NSW team following his acknowledgement that he used a team-mate?s phone to make a call to an unknown woman early yesterday morning.

Doust said: ?The Club recognises how Mark?s action has offended and we too apologise to the woman involved.

?The Club?s expectation in relation to the behaviour of its players has been well chronicled in the past. We expect and demand high quality behaviour and certainly this falls short of our expectations.

?Therefore, I have, as CEO, and after consultation with appropriate people, determined Mark will be appropriately fined by the Club and suspended from playing for the Dragons until further notice.?

Gasnier said: ?I acknowledge I left a voice message on an unknown person?s voicemail. I acknowledge that person has been offended.

?I certainly apologise for this. I will make contact with the person to personally apologise.

?I was under the influence of alcohol but I understand I have to be responsible for my actions.

?I have paid a huge price for my actions in the circumstances. It has been my life ambition to play State of Origin.

?I apologise to my partner, my family, my Club, my team-mates and to the game for the public drama that has been created.