Titans sanction Bird and Roberts

The Board of the Gold Coast Titans has approved sanctions to be imposed on Greg Bird and James Roberts as a result of significant brand and reputational damage suffered by the club arising from recent incidents of unacceptable public behaviour by both players.

In both cases the players breached the Titans Code of Conduct and the NRL Code of Conduct which they are legally bound to comply with at all times under the terms of their NRL playing contracts.

Titans Chief Executive Officer, Graham Annesley said today, "Whilst the circumstances of these incidents are serious enough alone to warrant club imposed sanctions, the details pale into insignificance compared to the damage done to the club's standing in the community at a time when the Board and management are doing everything possible to rebuild the Titans brand and ensure the long term sustainability of the club.

"All players need to accept personal responsibility for their actions and recognise that incidents of this nature not only damage the reputation and commercial prospects of the club, but also bring the image of the NRL and the game of Rugby League into substantial disrepute", Annesley added.

The Titans Disciplinary Committee gave both players the opportunity to explain their actions and whilst Greg and James expressed remorse, the committee formed the strong view that the damage inflicted on the club and the game leaves no alternative but to send a clear message that any reoccurrence may place the continuation of their contracts with the club in jeopardy.

The Board has approved the following sanctions:

Greg Bird

• A fine of $15,000 To be deducted from his 2015 salary
• Ineligibility for selection as team captain effective immediately
• Formal notice that any further breaches of the NRL Code of Conduct during the remaining term of his contract may be viewed as grounds for termination by the club

James Roberts

• A fine of $3,000 To be deducted from his 2015 salary
• An independent assessment to determine any required rehabilitation programs
• Formal notice that any further breaches of the NRL Code of Conduct during the remaining term of his contract may be viewed as grounds for termination by the club