Rugby League Club Faces Online Backlash After Inviting Decorated Soldier
The Brisbane Broncos are at the center of a heated online discussion following an invitation extended to Ben Roberts-Smith to enter the team’s dressing room after their recent loss. Roberts-Smith, a former SAS corporal and Victoria Cross recipient, was observed inside the Broncos’ facilities after their unexpected 30-26 defeat to the Dragons at Suncorp Stadium. This marked the first time this season the Dragons have secured a victory.
Roberts-Smith later confirmed he attended the game with his daughters as guests of the club. “The Broncos invited my daughters today because of all the things they have been through and we were very grateful,” he stated. The visit immediately ignited a debate online, with supporters and critics clashing over the appropriateness of the Broncos hosting Roberts-Smith while he faces serious criminal charges.
Allegations and Defense
Roberts-Smith was arrested in April at Sydney Airport and subsequently charged with five counts of war crime murder. He has consistently denied these allegations and intends to contest the charges vigorously.
Fan Reactions Split
Analysis of numerous comments across social media platforms reveals a sharply divided fan base. Many have voiced support for Roberts-Smith, arguing he should be presumed innocent until proven guilty. Others have lauded him as a war hero, asserting the Broncos were justified in welcoming him.
Some fans suggested Roberts-Smith’s military background and leadership experience would make him an ideal figure to address the team after a disappointing performance. A recurring point of discussion involved comparisons to Broncos player Ezra Mam, who remains with the club despite his own well-publicized legal issues.
Mam was fined and had his driver’s license suspended after pleading guilty to driving without a license and testing positive for drugs following a car accident in Brisbane in October 2024. That incident resulted in injuries to a young girl and led to a significant suspension for Mam before his return to first-grade football. One comment highlighted this disparity, stating, “I’d prefer a hero than Ezra Mam in my shed.”
Support for Roberts-Smith
Supporters frequently emphasized Roberts-Smith’s military service and leadership qualities. More emphatic endorsements included declarations like, “He’s a hero!”, “War horse. Always welcome that soldier,” and “They should be proud of having a decorated soldier in their sheds.” A common sentiment among those defending the visit was the belief that Roberts-Smith should not be judged before his legal proceedings conclude, with one fan asking, “Whatever happened to ‘innocent until proven guilty’?” Another echoed this, stating, “Man is innocent until proven guilty.”
Criticism and Controversy
Conversely, critics questioned the Broncos’ decision to extend the invitation. Concerns were raised that the club should have avoided potential controversy, especially given the ongoing charges Roberts-Smith faces. Some commentators also criticized the timing of the visit, which occurred shortly after Brisbane’s unexpected loss.
Opinions from critics ranged from describing the decision as “very very poor form” to deeming it “tone deaf,” “bloody disgusting,” and “stupid.” The invitation was reportedly facilitated through Roberts-Smith’s connection with Broncos welfare manager Adam Walsh, a former SAS soldier with whom he served.
