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Chairman of the St George Illawarra rugby league club Craig Young has apologised for using its letterhead to write a character reference for Brett Finch, after the former player pleaded guilty to sending child abuse material.
Key points:
- St George Illawarra says it did not approve a letter written by chairman Craig Young supporting Brett Finch
- Finch has pleaded guilty to one charge of using a carriage service to transmit, publish or promote child abuse
- Mr Young has apologised for writing the character reference using the Dragons letterhead
On Monday, Finch pleaded guilty to one charge of using a carriage service to transmit, publish or promote child abuse in August this year.
The 41-year-old told the court he sent "twisted" messages about child sex abuse in an effort to obtain cocaine.
Mr Young wrote a letter to the Sydney District Court supporting Finch's good character using the Dragons letterhead.
The Dragons released a statement distancing themselves from Mr Young's comments.
"The St George Illawarra Dragons are aware of a letter from Chairman Craig Young on club letterhead supporting Brett Finch in his ongoing court case," they said.
"This statement was provided in a personal capacity and was not supported or approved by the club."
'Error of judgement'
Mr Young apologised for using the club's letterhead in his reference, describing it as an "error of judgement".
"I was asked to provide a letter of support to a family friend who I believe made a serious mistake but is a fundamentally decent person," said Mr Young.
"I should not have connected the club to this matter and would like to apologise to members, fans, sponsors and all other stakeholders for any distress caused."
Finch was arrested as part of police raids in December 2021.
His sentencing hearing continues.