13 February 2023 , 19:29
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Castleford rugby star Joe Westerman has apologised to his family after being hit with a ‘substantial fine’ and given community service by his club over a sex act clip which went viral.
Graphic footage of the sex act went viral on social media over the weekend, which seemingly involved the rugby league star who has also played for Hull FC, Warrington, Toronto Wolfpack and Wakefield over the course of his career.
During a clip seen by The Mirror the 33-year-old, who has two caps for England, is seen with a woman in an alleyway. Westerman's wife, Lauren, with whom he has three children, took to Twitter to confirm the woman in the video is not her.
Castleford have announced that Westerman has been given a 'substantial fine' and ordered to complete community service which will include educating “young people on the effects of alcohol” as well as the “dangers of social media when in the public eye”.
Westerman has released a statement apologising for his actions. He said: “Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to wholeheartedly apologise to my family and friends for my actions. I’d also like to apologise to the supporters, sponsors, staff, and directors of Castleford Tigers as well as my team-mates.
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“I’d like to extend this apology to the game of rugby league, and I have realised that I need to work on my decision-making around alcohol.”
Castleford initially said that they were dealing with the matter internally before releasing a statement on Monday night confirming that they were fining Westerman.
Castleford have fined star Joe Westerman and ordered him to complete community service (Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)The statement added: “The club and its welfare officers, in conjunction with Rugby League Cares, will continue to support Joe and his family throughout this difficult time and will make no further comment.”
The incident comes just days before Castleford begin their Super League campaign with a trip to Hull on Sunday.