Also from that same Wierdler article. I do find it interesting that none of them are willing to be directly quoted in the media. I wonder why that is ?? As it says below, “They won’t have words or thoughts put in their mouth.” , but they aren't willing to communicate their own words and thoughts on the matter. I find that strange. Of course they aren't obligated to, as it will be quickly pointed out by many that we live in a free society, but if you want some understanding or acceptance of your position then some communication of it would be helpful.
Manly seven insist they won’t change view
Members of the Manly seven are standing strong and want it made clear assertions from club management that they are ready to backtrack on their decision and wear any kind of “rainbow” jersey in the future are well off the mark.
The players contacted management to tell them their position has not changed, that they will continue to refuse to wear such jumpers and that they are angry the club has made them look weak.
They have told the Sea Eagles they refuse to compromise their religious beliefs by wearing a rainbow jumper next year.
A few minutes after Nathan Cleary became
the NRL’s latest headline in an amazing week, a representative of the group contacted me to let me know they will not be changing their minds.
“I can speak on behalf of all the players, the seven, plus another player who was asked to replace the players – the view of the group is united, the players will not be taking part in a pride exercise,” the representative, who did not want to be named, said.
Josh Aloiai, one of the seven, broke the players’ silence on social media on Friday night, saying: “No amount of public scrutiny or internal pressure will cause us to fold our stance, you can’t backflip on beliefs or turn them on and off.”
An intermediary provided me with a statement saying: “The players will not be told what to believe. Or wear something that is in contrast to their beliefs. Whatever religion or culture is important to people, the players have no issue with that. They won’t tell others how to believe or behave and want the same respect given to them.
“While consultation was important, the real issue relates to their religion. The players have been criticised for playing in a sports betting jumper at a beer field. The critics may not have read the Bible. There is nothing to say it’s not OK, just not in excess, but the same goes for food.
“The players also want it known they are not homophobic. They are not telling people what to do. But they don’t want to be told what they need to represent when they don’t believe it.
“They won’t have words or thoughts put in their mouth.”