New Zealand Rugby and Netball New Zealand are "investing significant time in educating players on the dangers of social media, to both their image and careers," according to Olivia Caldwell of STUFF. NZ Rugby inducts all professional players the same way, which includes education around social media use -- but "after the induction stage a player must use their own initiative and keep it clean." NZ Rugby Head of Professional Rugby Chris Lendrum said that as part of every professional contract, there is an agreement that players must not use social media "in a way that could bring the game or the organisation into disrepute." He added, "The collective states that social media posts are considered public statements and therefore subject to scrutiny." Rugby players "are to be mindful of what they post, especially if questioning a refereeing decision or their own team management." Criticizing a referee "would bring players under fire from World Rugby, which can "dish out" heavy fines or suspension. However, when it comes to personal lives, beliefs and opinions, a player is entitled to publicize "however they wish." Massey University school of sport, exercise & nutrition lecturer Ashleigh-Jane Thompson said that it was "important for sporting institutions to place heavy emphasis on players use around social media." Thompson said, "For athletes, if used correctly, social media can be a powerful tool allowing them to communicate with various stakeholders (fans, sponsors and media), providing opportunities to cultivate their image and increase their potential endorsement value. However, when it's used incorrectly it can do irreparable harm" (STUFF, 10/29).
