A press release has been issued on behalf of the former Western Force rugby player Willie Ripia, who resigned from the Perth based franchise this week after being caught stealing from his teammates.
The statement says the former Hurricanes and Taranaki first five has returned to New Zealand to be supported by his family he works through serious issues relating to gambling.
Ripia says he's deeply remorseful for his actions and the damage and disruption they have had on those close to him and the Western Force.
