Kick Pearce out of NRL: Lumby

Under-fire NRL player Mitchell Pearce should be kicked out of the competition, says the league’s adviser on women’s issues Catharine Lumby.

Pearce’s career hangs in the balance after he made unwanted advances towards a woman during an alcohol-fuelled Australia Day bender.

“My view is get off the paddock if you’re going to behave like that to women,” Professor Lumby told ABC radio.

“There is no excuse. These guys have been educated and given opportunities to stand up and do the right thing since they were rookies.”

In a video, a shirtless and intoxicated Pearce can be seen trying to kiss a female, who rejects his advances and clearly states “I am a lesbian” before he kisses her.

Pearce is then seen to simulate sex with a dog.

The NSW State of Origin representative has been stood down by the Sydney Roosters.

Prof Lumby, who has worked pro bono with the NRL for a decade, does not believe the kind of behaviour displayed by Pearce is rife among NRL players.

But she said it was disappointing and frustrating to see “one or two” incidents of antisocial behaviour continue each year.

“Unfortunately we still see far too much of this,” she said.

“It’s very clear the NRL worked very hard on behavioural issues and attitudes to women and respect and the players have all had lots of education and ample opportunity to step up to the mark.

“If they don’t do it, I think there should be zero tolerance.”

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