The news is out, Greg Bird has been sentenced to at least eight months jail (pending an appeal). The Daily Telecrap had Jail Bird on their home page (sub-editors really had to work hard for that one) though Sidelined’s own Mountain Boy was made that reference back in April.
A problem with player behaviour has been that there is the perception that their transgressions are treated more leniently due to their public profile. Greg Bird is now an example to any player who thinks they are above the law.. Bird’s behaviour has been puzzling. And there was the plea from his girlfriend who did not cooperate at all with the police. Of course, the character witnesses for Bird need to be put into contrast in his attempt to stitch his mate Brent Watson for the crime. The judge seems correct in that Bird has showed no contrition and that seems to explain why he felt he could lie his way to freedom.
But he is now looking at a jail term and his career in jeopardy. A lesson for any sporting star who thinks that they are above the laws that govern us mere mortals.
