Doueihi saga highlights alleged cultural issues at Tigers
The ongoing situation involving Adam Doueihi has reportedly brought to light deeper cultural issues within the Wests Tigers club. This includes a claim that some players have been “vaping in the gym,” alongside questions about player conduct and club management. The controversy follows Doueihi’s decision to withdraw from a recent match against the Raiders.
Doueihi’s withdrawal occurred after a reported disagreement with coach Benji Marshall. After winning at the judiciary earlier in the week, Doueihi expected to return to the team at halfback for the Raiders clash. However, Marshall informed him he would play in the forwards to allow Javon Andrews to debut in the halves alongside Jarome Luai. Doueihi subsequently opted not to play.
The Tigers ultimately lost to the Raiders with a score of 56-10. Journalist Brent Read criticised Doueihi’s actions, stating that his behaviour had significantly damaged the club. Read suggested that if Doueihi wished to leave at the end of the year, he should do so. He also emphasised that Doueihi needed to address his teammates whom he had let down.
Cultural Concerns and Player Conduct
NRL great Gorden Tallis commented that if Doueihi genuinely wanted to change the club’s culture and be a leader, he should have played in the position Marshall requested. Tallis expressed disappointment that Doueihi did not play for his teammates, noting that many players have played in positions they did not prefer for the benefit of the team.
Journalist Dean Ritchie defended Doueihi, describing him as a “highly principled” individual who would stand firm if he felt he was being treated unfairly. Ritchie suggested Doueihi aimed to help the club address perceived issues. However, Read countered that not playing football and walking out does not help the club; instead, it causes damage. Read argued that change comes from staying and upholding standards.
Ritchie also brought up a claim regarding practices during club weights sessions. He mentioned a “suggestion that some players are vaping in the gym,” which he deemed unacceptable. Ritchie stressed that the gym environment should embody a strong work ethic. Read reiterated that if Doueihi wanted to influence cultural change, it should be through active participation and driving standards, not by refusing to play.
Club Leaks and Leadership Challenges
The situation has also highlighted concerns about information leaking to the media. Phil Gould issued a warning to the Wests Tigers, urging everyone within the club to cease leaking information following Doueihi’s public disagreement with Marshall. Gould noted that conflicting reports from the club and Doueihi’s camp have exacerbated the situation.
Gould stated that a primary challenge for the Tigers is controlling the narrative and fostering trust internally. He observed that many media commentators claim to have inside sources, leading to contradictory stories. Gould emphasised the need for the club to manage who speaks to the media and to ensure trust among staff and players.
NRL legend Paul Gallen echoed Gould’s sentiments but specifically criticised Doueihi for the “embarrassing” saga. Gallen argued that Doueihi standing himself down from the team represents a significant breach of trust, placing himself above the team. He suggested the club should have at least breached or fined Doueihi, calling his actions unacceptable.
Doueihi and his manager, Isaac Moses, met with Marshall, chief executive Shaun Mielekamp, and football manager Pat Richards to attempt to resolve the conflict. Doueihi was expected to return to training following these discussions.
Marshall’s Defining Moment and Recruitment
Ritchie described the upcoming weeks of the season as a crucial period for Marshall’s coaching career. He suggested that Marshall needs to assert his authority and establish who is in charge at the Tigers. When asked about Marshall’s next steps, Tallis advised him to seek guidance from an experienced mentor, specifically mentioning Wayne Bennett, or other seasoned coaches.
With Jarome Luai already set to depart and Doueihi potentially following at the end of the year, questions have arisen about the Tigers’ recruitment and roster management. Marshall’s next challenge involves bringing in players who can help the youthful squad progress towards the finals. Ritchie suggested Marshall should target players with strong character, such as Penrith’s Liam Martin, who will be free to negotiate with clubs on November 1.
Braith Anasta stressed the importance of the Tigers demonstrating strong leadership during this period to attract players from rival clubs. He noted that maintaining integrity is vital in such moments, making the Doueihi situation particularly difficult. Anasta suggested the club should take a firm stance, possibly by not playing Doueihi, to show that actions have consequences and that the team comes first. Marshall’s men are scheduled to face the Eels on Sunday afternoon, following their 56-10 defeat to the Raiders.
Source: foxsports.com.au
