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http://boy548.wix.com/perth-rugby-cl...ohn-hill/c1mau
Apology
To John Hill
Rugby WA Premier Grade Referee
The Perth-Bayswater Rugby Union Club, and myself as webmaster of the club web site (www.perthrugby.com.au), wish to express our regret at the publication of the internet news article on that site on 7 June 2014 (in its original form) under the headline "Daylight robbery at Pat O'Hara", covering the Rugby WA premier grade club match between Perth-Bayswater and Cottesloe.
The intent and nature of this news article was to reflect the passions of the club's supporters in this vital fixture, and the disappointment in a close loss, and reflected the opinion that the referee had a decisive influence on the outcome. It was published in the context of a rugby club web site, where informal, parochial and entirely subjective views would be appropriately expressed, if in an admittedly colourful manner, and was not intended as impartial or formal information.
It was not my intent as the author of the item, nor was it the intent of the Perth-Bayswater Rugby Union Club, to state or to imply that you, as the officially appointed referee for this Rugby WA club competition fixture, was in any way prejudiced, dishonest, malicious or lacked competence in the discharge of your duties, or failed to properly apply the laws of the game during this fixture.
However, I acknowledge that the careless use of idiom and a failure to properly appreciate the impact on a readership outside of the club may have breached the ARU Code of Conduct in relation to public comments on referees, and I sincerely regret any hurt or anguish the publication of this article may have caused you.
I personally, and on behalf of the club, wish to acknowledge your significant contribution to the sport of rugby union in this State and express our appreciation of your many years of selfless service to enable players and supporters of this and other clubs to enjoy this growing sport in Western Australia. I wish to assure you that I personally and the management of Perth-Bayswater will be pleased to welcome you to Pat O'Hara Reserve and our clubrooms on the next occasion that you have a home game with us.
Sincerely,
Rick Boyd
Club Webmaster and Life Member
Perth-Bayswater Rugby Union Club