Ripia caught stealing
01/11/2012 02:25:55 AM
Western Force flyhalf Willie Ripia has resigned from the club after allegedly being caught on CCTV stealing from his team-mates.
The 26-year-old has been receiving counselling for a chronic gambling problem and it's been reported in The West Australian he was caught on camera stealing from his team-mates belongings last week.
"Willie Ripia will not be part of the Emirates Western Force squad in 2012 after the club agreed today to accept Ripia's resignation, effective immediately," said a statement from the club late on Monday evening.
"The club has investigated a serious breach of team protocols by the New Zealand born flyhalf and following a meeting this morning with senior management, Ripia offered his resignation later in the day."
"The club wishes to stress that the matter relates to an internal incident at the club and does not involve any member of the public or public property."
A Western Force spokesperson said no further comment could be made on the matter at this stage due to legal reasons.
Ripia played seven matches for the Force in his first season at the club last year and his departure will be a significant blow to the club's finals aspirations, coming so late in the pre-season.