So Phil Gifford, one of the nation's pre-eminent rugby apologists, thinks the drunken basher Losi Filipo is better off in the embrace of his beloved game than in prison. I wonder if Mr Gifford's daughter had been the one attacked by Losi Filipo, had it been Mr Gifford's son whose head was stomped by the same drunken Filipo, would he be showing the same compassion and understanding? Just because people play rugby, it doesn't make them immune to the laws of the land and the expectations of a decent society. And the next time some other young man gets a skin full, attacks and injures, would Mr Gifford suggest he too is sentenced to time in a rugby team? If rugby had been doing its job in the first place – providing the structured, disciplined, positive environment that Mr Gifford talks up – then this should not have happened. The same environment, even on a professional footing, has demonstrated shortcomings – ie Aaron Smith and the Chiefs. And how come prison is good for some but not rugby players? I suggest the treatment of Filipo sends all the wrong signals to young sportsmen who already have a sense of self entitlement and over-importance. A short sharp incarceration just may have made Filipo a 'better man” and an example to others who may offend.

A Henry, Otumoetai.