The family of a Dunedin club rugby player who was stomped on during a match feel like they have been kicked in the face.
Taieri No 8 Kasimila Vaihu was initially banned for one game when he stomped on the head of Green Island prop Aifala Taelega during a division 1 game at Peter Johnstone Park on May 17.
Taelega has been left with a nasty cut above his right eye. It is still unclear whether his eyesight has been damaged.
Taelega’s family told the Otago Daily Times the suspension had been increased to three weeks.
The Otago Rugby Football Union declined to be interviewed but provided a brief statement.
"As part of this independent process, parties involved have the right to appeal the decision.
"Parties have seven days to appeal, so we can’t comment until the process is completed."
It is understood the Otago Rugby Football Union judiciary panel’s decision yesterday was for a six-week ban but based on Vaihu having no previous record and showing remorse and positive character references, it was reduced to three weeks.
Aifala Taelega’s son Luke spoke on behalf of the family.
He described the sanction as "bull...., to be honest".
"I reckon he shouldn’t be playing at all until maybe next season."
But he said the family was also keen to move on.
"Let’s not forget that a player was seriously hurt during this match.
"The injury was the result of a reckless act which has been acknowledged.
"But what’s missing from much of the discussion is genuine consideration for the impact on the victim.
"That impact was real and lasting and it’s something both clubs ... and the wider rugby community need to treat with gravity."
The family was also angry with a column that was published in the Otago Daily Times. It suggested the offending player had been tried four times.
"Yes, the process has been messy. Yes, social media has played its part in escalating things.
"But to suggest that the real injustice here is that the offending player is being tried four times, this is off the mark."
"The true injustice is that the person who was injured, who had no say in what happened to them, is still waiting for accountability, fairness and recognition of the harm done.
"This isn’t about vendettas, it’s about upholding the values of the game, the safety, fairness and respect.
"A suspension that fits the severity of the offence is not about punishing someone excessively, it’s about sending a message that reckless behaviour on the field has consequences, not just for the person who commits it, but for those who are left dealing with the aftermath.
"We all want to move on, but that can only happen when the process feels just and when those who are harmed are given the respect and protection they deserve."
"In focusing on the player who was cited, you’ve forgotten about those living with the aftermath, and a three-week ban is more of a kick in the face than what happened to my dad."
