SYDNEY - A risque new book by rugby league throwback Reg Reagan has been criticised for harming the code's fragile public image.
National Rugby League administrators fear the book Reg Reagan - This Is My Life! will add to the sport's already tarnished reputation.
Reg Reagan is the 1970s alter ego of
former Kangaroos and New South Wales representative Matthew Johns, whose character has developed a cult following in Australia thanks to The Footy Show.
The 213-page book, which is to be released this week, includes references to Reagan exposing himself to nuns and debasing women. It is also littered with homophobic remarks and obscene language.
Children's advocates may refer the book to the Film and Literature Review Tribunal.
Parramatta rugby league boss Denis Fitzgerald said Reagan and his catchcry "Bring back the Biff" had no place in the modern game.
Johns said criticism of the book as being unsuitable for children was irrelevant, because it was not intended for kids.
Johns also defended himself against suggestions his comic character's antics create an atmosphere that is likely to produce incidents such as that involving Danny Williams last weekend.
Melbourne Storm forward Williams faces suspension after king-hitting Wests forward Mark O'Neill.
The incident provoked outrage and some of the criticism landed at the door of Johns, the suggestion being that the Reagan character encouraged violence in the game.
- NZPA
