The Las Vegas Incident: A Case of Pro Player Embarrassment
Two Canberra Raiders players, Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies, found themselves in an unfortunate and highly embarrassing situation days before the start of the 2025 NRL season. The altercation, which occurred on their first night in Las Vegas, has already drawn significant attention from both the club and the NRL. According to reports, the incident happened after the second-rowers were briefly evicted from their hotel due to a mix-up with their room bookings. The confusion led to heightened tensions, which culminated in a physical confrontation in the hotel elevator.
The Role of the Inflatable Bat
The Sydney Morning Herald revealed that an inflatable baseball bat played a role in the scuffle between Young and Smithies. While the exact details of how the bat was used are unclear, it adds a layer of absurdity to an already troubling incident. Hotel security guards were summoned to intervene, and the situation was quickly brought under control. The use of such a comical weapon in a professional setting highlights the lack of judgment and professionalism from the players involved.
Coach Ricky Stuart’s Response
Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart addressed the incident, confirming that an altercation took place three days ago. He expressed his disappointment and condemned the players’ behavior as unacceptable. "I have spoken to the players who are very embarrassed," Stuart said. "The club will deal with this strongly." Stuart’s comments underscore the seriousness with which the team is taking the matter, emphasizing the need for accountability and a strong response to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Club’s Stance
The Canberra Raiders are expected to address the saga formally in the coming hours. The club’s reputation is on the line, and they are likely to implement strict disciplinary actions to send a clear message about the expected standards of conduct. This incident not only reflects poorly on the players involved but also on the team as a whole. The Raiders are known for their discipline and professionalism, and such behavior is a significant deviation from their usual standards.
The NRL’s Awareness
The National Rugby League (NRL) has been made aware of the incident, and they too are likely to take a close look at the situation. The NRL has strict rules and guidelines for player behavior, both on and off the field. This altercation in Las Vegas may lead to additional scrutiny and potential penalties from the governing body. The league’s response will be crucial in determining the long-term consequences for Young and Smithies.
Moving Forward
While the incident is certainly a setback, the focus now is on how the players and the club can move forward. Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies have expressed their remorse, and it is hoped that they will learn from this experience. The Canberra Raiders will need to address the underlying issues that led to the confrontation and reinforce the importance of maintaining a high standard of conduct, especially during team travel. As the season approaches, the team must work to rebuild its image and ensure that such incidents do not occur again.
