IN A FISHBOWL

By Matt Logue

He is the first to admit the fame and fortune went to his head, but Broncos fullback Karmichael Hunt has labelled the pressures on today’s NRL players as nothing but “tall poppy syndrome”.

In a candid interview regarding issues in the 2009 RLW Players’ Poll, Hunt reveals his anger and disappointment at one of the most controversial off-field seasons in the code’s 101-year history.

The Maroons utility also admits his regret at his involvement in an incident last September which led to allegations of sexual assault against he and fellow Broncos Sam Thaiday and Darius Boyd.

While no charges were laid against the trio, 22-year-old Hunt has used the experience as motivation to become a better person and a voice for other players.

“Rugby league seems to get targeted by the media in different cases and I just think it’s tall poppy syndrome,” fires Hunt.

“It’s a great game, with a lot of great players and a lot of attention.

“So I guess if you’re out there on the front and back page every day you are going to get hammered more than the other sports that have less spotlight on them.

“And that’s just league and it’s unfortunate that there have been more negatives than positives this year.

“Everyone knows about my personal situation at the end of last season and what I went through. I’ve moved on in a positive direction along with everyone who was involved.

“It was one of the biggest mistakes I’ve ever made, but it has made me a better person for it.

“And maybe with me as an example I think all the controversies will start to occur less and less, because there is good support staff at every NRL club and everything is only going to get better for the players in the future.”

READ THE FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL PLAYERS’ POLL EDITION OF RLW

• PLUS ...Bennett’s warning on Ben Creagh; Mitch Pearce’s Rooster rescue act and the man to fill Hazem’s boots at the Bulldogs