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It is still unclear exactly how mutual attraction between two strangers becomes a sexual encounter including one of the pairing's team-mates. There is plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest alcohol, comradeship and sometimes drugs play a part. Generalisations, though, are easy and often superficial.
Group sex within the NRL hit the headlines yet again, when a Kiwi woman revealed an incident involving several members of the Cronulla Sharks in 2002. She singled out Matthew Johns as one of three players who had sex with her in a hotel room while others watched on.
Those working with victims of sexual abuse in Auckland say research is currently underway to identify the underlying causes of team-mates opting into group sex, often with young and vulnerable women.
Sexual abuse counsellors say while some things are clear, little is known about the triggers that spur a sportsman to invite fellow players to join a sexual liaison.
Counsellors say very few women expect or intend to end up in a group sex situation. It is common for a woman who has formed an attraction with a player to go back to his hotel.
Expectation on both sides is that sex is likely. It's the 'what-comes-next' that researchers are focused on in a bid to better help victims of these damaging, no-win situations.
No doubt many parents will also be keen to hear what researchers find out. In addition to parents who have been quizzed by their kids on 'consensual sex' in recent weeks, many will also be mindful of ensuring their rapidly growing offspring avoid the well-publicised pitfalls of fallen stars like Matty Johns.
Disgraced Johns has since been fired from his position as host of The Footy Show, as well as an assistant at the Melbourne Storm following an embarrassing public apology.
Perhaps it is time to give serious thought to a public awareness campaign around social behaviour relating to team sport and alcohol. There are enough recent examples to justify shock campaigns akin to ones targeting seatbelt use, speed and drink driving.
Such campaigns could reach beyond player behaviour and highlight a safe code of conduct for those, particularly young women, who are inevitably part of the post-match scene.
If it takes a generation to change behaviour now might be a very good time to start.
