UPDATE
The Melbourne Storm has confirmed they will not cut star player Brandon Smith ahead of the 2022 NRL season.
However, he will depart the club when his contract is up at the end of 2022.
Storm CEO, Justin Rodski, said today: “Recent comments made by Brandon in a podcast, and the way he expressed them, do not align with Storm’s values and the way we operate as a club.”
“The statements have deeply offended current and former players, coaches, staff and board members and the club strongly rejects the comments made about the Storm culture.”
“We acknowledge Brandon’s apology made on social media today and his willingness now to prepare for the 2022 season with Storm.” “Brandon has every right to explore future opportunities as any player would in his position, and ultimately we respect his decision to play football elsewhere from 2023.” Rodski said.
Melbourne Storm hooker Brandon Smith has released a statement clarifying his comments about wanting to “win a premiership” with the Sydney Roosters.
The 25-year-old has been exploring a move to rival clubs from 2023 onwards, despite being contracted to the Storm for next season.
Speaking to the YKTR Sports podcast, Smith recently praised the Roosters for their professionalism.
The comments have drawn the ire of the Storm, who are reportedly considering cutting him from their list.
He released a statement via Instagram on Tuesday morning, insisting he will continue to be himself while standing by his comments on the podcast.
Read the full statement below
I want to address current media speculation going on around me at the moment, and specifically my recent comments on the YKTR Sports podcast.
Over the past two months, I’ve read multiple headlines about me day in day out, many of which were untrue, and none that came from my mouth directly.
I done this podcast for that very reason. To be fully transparent about the process I’ve been going through.
It’s honestly been really exciting throughout and I’m truly grateful to be in the position I’m in.
One thing I pride myself on is being myself, and regardless of backlash I will continue to do do.
That being said, I do acknowledge and want to apologise for how some of the comments have been received.
Specifically to the Melbourne Storm, it was never my intent to disrespect or come across as ungrateful to the club that has done so much for me and my family.
And that goes for my coaches, members, staff and most of all, my teammates.
I speak from the heart – for better or worse sometimes – and I’m sorry if anyone was hurt by my words.
But at the end of the day they are my words.
I specifically also want to address the media honing in on my comments around the Storm culture, and it being framed as a “drinking culture” they have going on down there. Our culture is built on hard work and effort as the main priorities.
These comments have been taken way out of context, and I implore anyone interested in the matter to please watch the interview in its entirety before jumping to conclusions.
This will be the last time I address the comments made on this podcast.
My focus is now fully turned to the future with the Melbourne Storm and all the amazing opportunities laid before me.
Whatever happens I will give 100 per cent. It’s all I know. If I’m to be labelled a terrible person so be it, if I cuss too much, I’m sorry, but that is me and I will continue to be me.
Forever grateful - Cheese