Sam Burgess’ ex-wife rages at NRL decision as the ex-Rabbitohs man eyes coaching return

Phoebe Burgess has blasted the NRL after her former husband Sam Burgess was cleared to return to the Souths as assistant coach.

The NRL did not find that there was sufficient available evidence to support allegations that Burgess had engaged in domestic violence.

Further, the NRL said a number of allegations concerning Burgess’ personal relationships did not relate to the NRL’s rules.

“I am appalled,” Phoebe Burgess told The Australian.

“This conversation is not over. But this is not just about me. It’s about what women are worth to the NRL.

“For countless women in Australia, home is not a safe place to be.

“The message to them today is: don’t speak up, because even if you are believed, and even if the evidence is there, people in power will find excuses.”

The governing body did, however, fine him $30,000 and suspended him for 12 weeks for multiple breaches of the NRL rules during his time as a player and official with the club.

“I stand strongly against violence towards women,” Burgess said.

“It has no place in society, no place in sport and no place in my life. I am thankful that the NRL has finally cleared my name against all allegations of domestic violence.

“I have now been cleared of three very public and defamatory investigations. This has been a long and damaging process, taking a toll on me both physically and mentally.

“I have accepted full responsibility for the way certain parts of my life have unfolded throughout the last 16 months.

“I can now move on and continue the next phase of my life knowing the truth has been revealed. I have made impactful and positive changes to my life and I am focusing on improving and developing as a man, son, father and now coach.”

The NRL found that Burgess had breached the governing body’s regulations by taking illegal drugs in 2018, threatening another rugby league player in 2018 and breaching NSW law in February 2021 by driving a motor vehicle with traces of an illicit drug in his system.

“I understand, but do not agree with all of the breach notices issued by the NRL,” Burgess said. “I believe my punishment has already been served by missing a major semi-final in 2019 for pulling another player’s hair.

“I played the game wholeheartedly and full of spirit within the games 80 minutes and for me the field is where it all stays. I’m disappointed the NRL feel differently and is rehashing a matter that has already been dealt with.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout this entire process; it has meant a lot to me and has certainly not gone unnoticed. Most importantly, I would like to thank my family for their unwavering love and support.”