SHEPHERD SANCTIONED BY ARU

Emirates Western Force back Cameron Shepherd tonight faced an ARU Code of Conduct Tribunal in Sydney and was handed a two match ban suspended for 12 months, $15,000 fine and ordered to attend counselling following a code of conduct breach.
RugbyWA CEO Vern Reid said;

“Following his appearance tonight at the ARU Code of Conduct Tribunal, and last week in the Perth Magistrates Court, Cameron has been dealt with in an appropriate manner and RugbyWA now considers the matter closed.”

“Cameron isn’t proud of his actions and has shown significant remorse. He fully acknowledges and understands that he has let not only himself down but also the members and supporters of the Emirates Western Force and the wider rugby fraternity.”

“In the five years Cameron has been in WA he has shown himself to be a dedicated team man and a positive contributor to the local community. RugbyWA will support and monitor his commitment to counselling and we believe this is an important step in addressing his off-field decision making processes.”

“The severity of the penalties which could have resulted from his actions has served to be a significant wake-up call for Cameron and he is extremely grateful to be given the opportunity by the Court and ARU Tribunal to seek the appropriate help to make better choices in his life.”

Cameron will continue to train with the squad in Sydney this week and will be available for selection in Thursday’s trial match against the Waratahs in Nowra.

RugbyWA