​​​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

Former NRL representative Reni Maitua has claimed the NSWRL removed him from a community engagement role linked to the Deadly Choices program after he publicly criticised the NSW Blues and coach Laurie Daley on a podcast. The issue emerged on Wednesday during an episode of BTFU’s 180 Podcast, where Maitua said he was informed he would no longer be involved in activities surrounding State of Origin Game Three in Brisbane next month. The matter has attracted attention because Maitua had worked with the program for several years and says his comments were focused on football decisions rather than personal attacks.

Maitua, a former Bulldogs premiership winner and Kangaroos representative, said he had been involved with Deadly Choices for four years. The health initiative focuses on preventative healthcare and community engagement within Indigenous communities across Australia.

According to Maitua, he had expected to continue his involvement during the final State of Origin match of the 2025 series. He said he had already participated in promotional activities connected to the program before receiving a phone call informing him that his services were no longer required.

Maitua Details Circumstances of Removal

Speaking on the podcast, Maitua explained that the community work held significant personal value and was not primarily motivated by financial reward.

He said the role included visiting communities in Brisbane and engaging with vulnerable groups, including homeless people and Indigenous Australians. Maitua described the work as beneficial to his mental wellbeing and something he genuinely enjoyed doing.

Maitua stated that he was told his removal was linked to comments he had made regarding the NSW State of Origin team. He said those comments focused on team selection, interchange decisions and coaching choices under Blues coach Laurie Daley.

The former forward argued that he believed he was offering legitimate football analysis rather than attacking individuals. He also maintained that he had not been warned that his public commentary could affect his involvement in community programs connected to the NSWRL.

Maitua acknowledged that, from a contractual perspective, he may have needed to be more aware of how his remarks could be interpreted. However, he insisted that he was critiquing performance rather than engaging in personal criticism.

NSWRL Denies Claim

While Maitua believes his podcast comments led to his removal, reports indicate NSWRL officials have denied that explanation.

The governing body's position is significant because Maitua had not yet signed a formal agreement for this year's activities. Although he says he had already participated in preparations, there was reportedly no completed contract in place for the upcoming Origin period.

That distinction may become central to discussions about whether Maitua was officially removed from a role or simply not reappointed for the latest campaign.

At the time of the podcast discussion, no further detailed public explanation from the NSWRL had been provided regarding the circumstances surrounding the decision.

Readers can follow further developments through the official governing body channels and announcements.

Anasta Defends Former Teammate

Maitua's comments drew a strong reaction from podcast co host Braith Anasta, who criticised the decision and questioned the reasoning behind it.

Anasta argued that he had publicly offered stronger criticism of the Blues than Maitua and suggested it was unfair that Maitua appeared to be the individual affected.

He expressed disappointment that a former player with a proven record of community engagement could lose an opportunity to continue work that benefits young people and Indigenous communities.

Anasta also highlighted Maitua's contribution to the program over recent years. According to Maitua, he had not invoiced for his last two appearances with Deadly Choices, reinforcing his claim that the role was driven by community service rather than financial gain.

The comments added another layer to the debate, shifting attention beyond football criticism and toward the broader impact on community programs.

Focus on Community Contribution

Deadly Choices has become one of the most recognised Indigenous health initiatives in Australia. The program encourages preventative health checks and promotes healthier lifestyles through community outreach and education.

Former athletes and public figures often play an important role in connecting with participants, particularly young people. Their involvement can help increase engagement and awareness across communities.

Maitua said his planned activities around Origin Three would have included visits and outreach work in Brisbane. He expressed disappointment that he would no longer be able to participate in those engagements.

The former representative player emphasised that losing the opportunity to work in the community was the aspect that affected him most. He said he remained committed to speaking honestly about football while continuing to support causes he cares about.

More rugby league news and updates can be found through our coverage hub. 

Ongoing Discussion Around Media Commentary

The situation has also sparked discussion about the relationship between sporting organisations and former players who work in media.

Many retired athletes now combine ambassadorial, community and media roles. As a result, they frequently balance professional obligations with the expectation that they provide honest opinions about teams, coaches and performances.

Maitua's comments have highlighted the challenges that can arise when those responsibilities overlap. Whether the disagreement leads to further clarification from the NSWRL remains to be seen.

For now, the issue has become a talking point across rugby league circles, particularly given Maitua's long association with community programs and his public insistence that his remarks were intended as football analysis rather than personal criticism.