Richard Michael
DeanoHarmoMichael's Musings - When should Ben Cousins return?
June 20th 2007 11:38
Category: No Category
Ben Cousins in happier times, during his Brownlow year in 2005
Disgraced West Coast Eagle Ben Cousins presents a tragic picture. An amazingly talented footballer, who took out the 2005 Brownlow Medal and kicked a couple of crucial goals to get the Eagles over the line in last year's grand final, the former midfielder hasn't kicked a ball in 2007. Instead, he has faced a humiliating suspension from the club before flying over to the USA for a drug rehabilitation clinic.
It will be a long process. West Coast chairman Dalton Gooding in last Sunday's Herald-Sun explained "We've got an agreement with the AFL Commission that he must be medically cleared and psychologically cleared by the AFL medical officers." The AFL's medical staff will need to be convinced that he is drug-free and will remain drug-free. Gone will be the normal 3-strikes policy, and instead Cousins will be required to be regularly tested, publicly tested and required to prove his innocence every time.
Before lifting their suspension, the Eagles will require Cousins to sign a contract and agree to more stringent conditions. The club's reputation has taken a major hit thanks to the actions of Cousins and others within the club. Playing football will not be enough - Cousins will need to work hard, on and off the field, to restore the reputation of himself and the club. With the fierce glare of the Perth media constantly on him, Cousins cannot expect privacy. Every move will be monitored, and scrutinised to ensure that it enhances the image of the club.
It's a long road to recovery for Ben Cousins. Despite the brave predictions of some, he is unlikely to make it back on the field this season. But it is to be hoped that by 2008 he does return. It would be a tragedy if Ben Cousins was to be remembered as the pathetic figure of his 2007 drug hell rather than as the champion footballer of 2005-06.
Ben Cousins at the 2005 grand final parade with the cup
| 40 |
| Vote |
subscribe to this blog
