New Zealand Rugby has been ordered to "clean up its act" after the publication of an independent review uncovered "issues with alcohol, sexism and a sense of entitlement among players," according to Alex Lowe of the LONDON TIMES. NZR commissioned a "respect and responsibility review" last November "after a number of off-field incidents." The panel investigated 36 cases of misconduct over the past four years -- 33 involving individual players, two involving a team and one involving a club. Alcohol and drug use were found to be factors in "more than half of the cases." The misconduct incidents included violent behavior toward teammates and coaches and "a homophobic slur that was overheard by the public and complained about" (LONDON TIMES, 9/7). The London TELEGRAPH reported New Zealand Law Society President Kathryn Beck led the review, which cost more than NZ$150,000 ($108,200) and compiled "over 100 recommendations." Six "key changes," to be implemented by NZR over the next 12-24 months, center around leadership, respect and gender equality. While warning that "wholesale attitude changes would not happen overnight," NZR CEO Steve Tew "underlined his commitment to taking on board the suggestions." He said, "They're not all simple or easy to deliver and nor should they be. The integrity, reputation and ultimate success of the game in New Zealand depends on this." Pressed on recent issues involving players Aaron Smith and Jerome Kaino, All Blacks Manager Steve Hansen defended the team's disciplinary processes. Hansen said, "I think that's personal. Who are we to be the moral judges of anybody else? We've just to be our own moral judge. ...If people are breaking standards or laws then we'll deal with it the same way we've always dealt with it -- fairly, swiftly and honestly." (TELEGRAPH, 9/7).
