Read the apologetic letter Wests Tigers issued to enraged supporters as the struggling team takes serious action over the Anzac shirt fiasco in which they featured American troops instead of Aussie diggers.
The Tigers’ Commemorative ANZAC jersey is being redesigned.
Following the employment of two US forces rather than Australian servicemen
The club message apologized for “any offense that image may have caused.”
The Wests Tigers have issued heartfelt apologies to their supporters, promising to rework their 2023 Commemorative jersey ahead of the ANZAC Round later this month.
It follows the joint venture club originally using a stock image of two American soldiers instead of Australian servicemen for the jersey which will be worn on Sunday, April 23 against the Sea Eagles.
The club said the design was done in collaboration with Holsworthy Army Barracks, describing the image of the soldiers walking a Middle Eastern landscape as a reminder of ‘the incredible bravery and sacrifice of our troops’.
The jersey – which retails for $160 – also contains the Australian and New Zealand flags on the sleeves.
But the club were forced into a re-think after a number of eagle-eyed fans spotted an embarrassing faux pas.
We have taken on board feedback from our members and fans, and we will be redesigning our 2023 commemorative jersey, immediately.
‘Wests Tigers deeply regret any offence the use of this stock image may have caused and remains completely committed to honouring and respecting all those servicemen and women who have, and who continue, to serve.’
Meanwhile, Tigers fans could stage a protest rally at Stadium Australia during the clash with Parramatta on Monday as they seek changes to the club’s management.
More than 260 supporters have joined the Wests Tigers Action Group Facebook page, and they plan to make their voices heard.
A mass walkout at the venue has been reportedly discussed – and the Action Group may also literally turn their backs on their struggling team in the 11th minute.
The proposed stunt would symbolise the number of consecutive years the club has missed the NRL top eight.
We have been poor in terms of results for over a decade and nothing seems to change,’ group administrator Clint Schmeider said.
‘The fans have had enough….they are sick of seeing us lose and I really can’t blame them.’
Schmeider told Wide World of Sports the likely protest isn’t directed at the playing group – it is the people who run the club – such as under pressure CEO Justin Pascoe.
‘They are making poor decisions and we fans suffer as a result,’ he said.
‘We are not nut jobs, we are just frustrated fans…. no way will there be riots or anything like that, we just want to change the culture of the club.’
Wooden spooners last season, Tim Sheens’ men are 0-5 to start the 2023 season and were thumped 46-12 by Brisbane last start.
