Sponsors Consider Involvement with Rugby League

Ongoing discipline and related issues including recent allegations of poor behaviour by several Queensland players in the lead-up to State of Origin III are leading NRL sponsors to closely scrutinize ongoing investigations.
The Queensland Rugby League is continuing its probe into events ahead of the series finale in Brisbane following reports of heavy drinking sessions and allegations players had taken a home-made cocktail by mixing the sleeping medication Stilnox with the high energy drink Red Bull.
With many sponsors involved in rugby league already on edge following a range of off-field incidents this year, major Origin backers including Aussie Home Loans, Harvey Norman, Fourex and AAMI said they were watching developments closely.
"AAMI has been in discussion today with the Queensland Rugby League on this matter but does not comment publicly on player related matters pertaining to its sponsorship," the insurance giant said in a brief release to media agency AAP on Monday.
Aussie Home Loans founder John Symonds warned earlier this year any more player scandals could see him and other sponsors desert rugby league.
When contacted by AAP, a spokesperson for the mortgage broker said "we're committed to the sponsorship of the Blues in 2009 and 2010.
"The NRL has assured us they are taking the necessary steps to stamp out any unacceptable behaviour and we will continue to monitor their progress."
Speaking at the recent Australian Financial Review Business of Sport conference, NRL Chief Executive David Gallop admitted that the sport had been facing a series of damaging off-field incidents this season but stated "the quality of our long-term relationships with our major sponsors means the deals are strong enough to withstand the recent player behavior scandals."