Melbourne Storm statement from CEO Dave Donaghy

Earlier today, our Football Director Frank Ponissi and I spoke to Jesse Bromwich regarding a matter that took place following the ANZAC Test in Canberra on Friday night.

Jesse was extremely remorseful for putting himself in a position of risk that has obviously had an impact on his Club – despite being on international duties.

He is genuinely disappointed by his poor choices and he’s accepted a number of sanctions that have been imposed upon him by the Club for breaching our code of conduct.

Melbourne Storm has extremely high standards and we make no apologies for that – this has been a tough lesson for Jesse.

In handing down these sanctions Melbourne Storm has consulted Jesse’s management, the RLPA and the NRL Integrity Unit.

The sanctions are as follows:

· Jesse will be stood down for two games – he won’t be available for selection until Round 13

· Jesse will donate his ANZAC Test match fee to a selected charity

· Jesse has stood aside from the Storm leadership group and I believe has informed New Zealand of his intention to step down as the Kiwis’ captain

· Jesse will be required to undergo a number of counselling and treatment courses

Jesse had the opportunity to front the board regarding this matter, however, he’s chosen to waive this and accept the sanction.

Jesse is a terrific person, this is out of character and he’s incredibly disappointed in himself, however he will learn from it and we will continue to support him and his family.

Statement from Jesse Bromwich

I’d like to start by firstly apologising to my family, Melbourne Storm, New Zealand Rugby League, the NRL, my teammates, the sponsors, and the members and fans.

I regret making the choice of staying out with my teammates until the early hours of Saturday morning, as well as consuming an excessive amount of alcohol.

I take full responsibility for the poor choices I made, I am devastated and my actions were out of character.

Playing footy for Melbourne Storm and the Kiwis is a great honour and I apologise for letting down everyone involved in both organisations.

I will be stepping down from my leadership roles with Melbourne Storm and the Kiwis, I understand I am a role model to the young players and the poor choices I made do not reflect my personal values.

I fully accept the sanctions that have been handed down.