sonofgloin, this has nothing to do with race.

I don't know your forty background, but I have played and followed the game since the 60's.

Once the game became bigger than Ben hur, about ten years ago, insane amounts of money was being paid to these young players, the best of the best.

There have been many non indiginous playeres effected, Julian Oneal being one such case,

Back in the 80's, most players had day jobs, however, once the code became a professional sport, the day jobs disappeared and free time, combined with insane amounts of money became too much for some to manage.

All I am suggesting is that rather than pay these young guys up to millions for a few year contract, pay them a decent wage and put the balance in trust fir when the retire.

And Belly, I know this is not the site for sports, but at least you and I, anlomg with anyone else who shares our passion can share and care about the gloved game.

Go the Broncos!

Yeah, it's such a shame we can't just chain 'em up and let 'em out to play on Saturdays.

Yes, nothing to do with race.

All too often, not always of course, the best sports people don't think too deeply about much else but their sport. It is probably part of what makes them the best.

The lucky ones have a coach like Wayne Bennett, who keeps them out of too much trouble, if not actually on the straight & narrow. However the adoration, & sex showered on the top football players would turn the head of some of the very brightest of us, if subjected to it. Even Bennett could not help some of his charges.

I think a mandatory deferred pay system could help many, while playing, & most definitely when age has finished that part of their life, but such a thing is probably illegal.

like some of our young tennis players good athletes are treated like gods as they are growing up. Parents allow many to act like brats as long as they perform. Unfortunately for them they are unable to show any responsibility in the real world. Recently our best tennis player showed that along with many afl players. The NRL. AFL, Tennis Australia is mainly interested in gate receipts and TV royalties so allow many brat like McEnroes to behave like pigs and get away with it. All codes are the same in this regard. Hopefully this young man will realise he isn't god and become a citizen that adds to this world instead of just taking.

http://www.skynews.com.au/sport/article.aspx?id=849986
Here is insight in to this Champion QLD player currently playing in Sydney under a life changing contract.
I think, after reading his story, comparing it to the now ex player from Alice Springs in the other game, we can look further than money for answers.

Rechtub, we are pushing it uphill here bloke.
Any one who has difficulty getting out side the door snears in contempt at sport and sports men.
Just about every country town has a teacher and at least one cop playing with the locals.
Often out on surf patrol if not at work.
Last weekend, it takes place every year, Army and other services, played in a dead service mans hometown, to honor him.
No doubt we lovers of sport are dead heads, should confine our selfs to the charity work and hospital visits.
OR we could be home locked away, still those against sportsmen and women do scream we won at the Olympic games.
Look deeper Rechtub,read the link before it is killed it says a lot.