Mark Gasnier’s recent move to the Parramatta Eels as part of their coaching staff has sparked plenty of discussion.
Almost every Dragons supporter I’ve spoken to since the announcement has mentioned feeling betrayed by the move—and even a month later, those feelings haven’t subsided.
For many, seeing a name so synonymous with the St George Illawarra Dragons taking up a role with another club feels jarring. It raises questions about loyalty in rugby league and whether it still holds a place in the modern game.
As someone who admires the traditions of our game, I think loyalty is a great thing. It’s certainly special when a player or coach dedicates their entire career to one club.
It creates a bond with the fans and cements their legacy in a way few others can replicate. We celebrate those who stick around through thick and thin, and rightly so.
But loyalty isn’t always realistic.
At the end of the day, rugby league is a professional sport, and the people involved need to make decisions that are best for their careers and families.
If one club isn’t providing opportunities and another one is, it’s only natural to consider making a move.
Take Gasnier’s situation. He’s a Dragons legend and always will be. But if St George didn’t have a role for him that suited his ambitions or career goals, is he supposed to sit around waiting indefinitely?
The Eels offered him a chance to develop as a coach and contribute to a club that clearly values what he brings to the table.
It’s not just Gasnier, either. Rugby league is full of examples where players, coaches, and staff have had to make tough calls.
The reality is that loyalty works both ways.
Clubs often make business decisions that don’t align with a player’s or coach’s desires, whether it’s not renewing a contract, moving in a different direction, or prioritising other talent.
If clubs can make those decisions, it’s only fair that individuals do the same when it comes to their careers.
That doesn’t mean loyalty should disappear. It’s still something to strive for, and those who embody it deserve recognition.
But we also need to appreciate the complexity of professional sport. Sometimes, moving on isn’t a rejection of loyalty—it’s a necessary step for growth.
So while it might feel strange to see Gasnier in blue and gold, it’s a reminder that loyalty, as admirable as it is, isn’t always the deciding factor.
Sometimes, the opportunity to contribute, grow, and succeed elsewhere is too good to pass up—and there’s no shame in that.