Willie Mason fined, suspended over drink driving
NRL veteran Willie Mason has copped his punishment on the chin after being disqualified from driving for six months and fined $900 for drink driving.
The Newcastle prop’s case was finalised at Newcastle Local Court on Monday.
“I respect the court’s judgment and I accept what I got,” said Mason in a club statement.
He had pleaded guilty last month after being arrested in January on his way to training – after an Australia Day drinking session the day before – and recorded a blood alcohol reading of 0.09.
Knights CEO Matt Gidley indicated the club would now weigh up possible action against Mason over the incident.
“With the court process now complete, the club will continue to review the matter internally,” said Gidley.
“Our role as a club is to consider all information before handling the matter in accordance with our code of conduct.
“The club takes this matter very seriously and will continue to educate our players in acting responsibly.”
The incident was part of a troubled off season for the Knights which included the incarceration of recruit Russell Packer for assault.
The Knights lost their season opening match against Penrith on Saturday by 30-8, with fullback Darius Boyd (hamstring), captain Kurt Gidley (concussion) and playmaker Tyrone Roberts (concussion) all failing to finish the match.