I think clubs know there are limits to what they can do to help players.
Having secured the last three premierships, it's probably fair to say the Hawks know a thing or two about running a footy club, and maximising the talents of their players. They took a chance of Dayle Garlett and couldn't make it work.
Clubs should be asking:
- do they have the people and infrastructure to help a bloke like Bennell get the most out of his talent to help the team;
- could getting Bennell negatively affect the footy club (in terms of what they give up, allocation of resources, media focus etc); and
- what is best for Bennell?
Realistically, most people will be thinking about their own jobs. Taking a risk on a wayward talent has plenty of risk. Much more risk than passing on 'character grounds'. I think Bondy has played things as conservatively as he can, and probably knows he needs to roll the dice.