White charged with drink driving

Jetstar Gold Coast Titans prop Matt White was this morning charged with a high range drink driving offence.

The Jetstar Titans consider this a very serious issue and, after consultation with club management and the senior playing group, has decided the following penalties will be imposed against the 26-year-old.

– A fine of $25,000, based on the high range of the offence. This fine will be donated to the Titans 4 Tomorrow community educational programs and Titans Community Foundation;
– Ordered to undergo a driving and alcohol education course;
– Ordered to undertake 100 community hours working with driver education and children in juvenile detention.

White said he was embarrassed by his actions and acknowledged that he had let down the club, its fans, and sponsors.

“I am personally embarrassed by my actions and accept full accountability for them” said White.

“I acknowledge that my actions go against the players’ strong code of conduct and the club’s policies in this area.

“I will do everything in my power to regain the trust of my teammates, the club and our fans and sponsors.”

Jetstar Titans Managing Director Michael Searle said White was aware of his off-field responsibilities and how his actions have breached the club’s strict attitudes towards player behaviour.

“Matt is aware of his responsibilities and has acknowledged that he has put himself in this situation” said Searle.

“Since joining the club in 2009, Matt has been a valued member of the team on and off the field and we hope that this is purely an isolated incident that he can learn from.

“The club will work with Matt to ensure he undertakes further education in relation to alcohol and driving.”

The Jetstar Titans will make no further comment on the issue as the matter is now before the courts and it would be inappropriate to do so.