NZRL grants Metcalf one more
chance

One-time Warrior, Shaun Metcalf, and two of his friends who conspired with him to viciously attack his pregnant former girlfriend have been given a "last chance" of rehabilitation by returning to rugby league.

The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) board has decided the three Auckland 17-year-olds, suspended for assaulting the teenage girl in a suburban reserve nearly two years ago, could again join the code.

Executive chairman Sel Pearson said it had been a difficult decision given the "socially appalling" nature of the crime, but after widely seeking advice, the board believed it was an opportunity for rehabilitation that should not be refused the teenagers.

In August 2003, Metcalf and Geoffrey Ruaporo beat and kicked the young woman in the stomach while Kyle Donovan was present.

The assailants were given jail terms of 18 months, and Donovan 15 months, for attempting to procure an abortion, aggravated robbery, and injuring with intent.

All three were under-16 rugby league representatives, while Metcalf had in 2004 become the youngest player to play for the Warriors.

Despite their early promise, Pearson said rugby league didn't really need them.

The board had seriously questioned, therefore, whether NZRL really wanted to have the three back in the game.

"But if it helps turn their lives around and for them to contribute positively to the community then it is probably the right decision. . .

"Rugby league provides them a tool. . . it's all up to them now."

Pearson said all the boys were on parole and the NZRL would be watching them closely.

"They understand this is their last chance. . .They show extreme remorse, are not trying to defend their actions."

Pearson said the decision was reached by six board members and three independent judicial committee members, including a district court judge.

They had sought views from the Corrections Department, counsellors and anger management experts.

"We left no stone unturned; gathered as much information as we could."

Pearson said the boys, aged 15 at the time, had been "children making an adult decision ? a pretty bad one" and he had enormous sympathy for the victim, who now has a daughter aged 17 months, and her family.

"I've even been out to see the little one. She is lovely and healthy, a beautiful baby with a doting mother and grandparents."

He told the family of the board's decision in person on Saturday and said they were disappointed.

"I can understand they feel aggrieved."

Children's Commissioner Dr Cindy Kiro said it was an awful crime but she supported the NZRL decision as the culprits had been punished and everyone should have a chance of rehabilitation.

"Though what they did was abhorrent and foul, it did not lead to the death of anyone.

"They are still young and hopefully through sport and with other support they can manage to go on and lead decent lives."