Someone I know was invited to attend a conference for a non-work related group. It would involve taking time off from work, traveling, hotel, etc. Not sure how much would be paid by the group. You might be thinking "just take vacation days and go", but it's not that simple. My friend doesn't need permission to take time off and go, but does need management to understand that their involvement with this group doesn't and wouldn't conflict in any way with their job or the company. There might be some sort of legal jargon involved, might not, not sure. But better safe than sorry. In fact, there's a good chance that what's learned at this conference could be beneficial to their job. The employer has nothing to do with it, but has at least given some sort of blessing for it.
So maybe Sidney met with Stans and said he wanted to train more with Lucas, thinking it would be better for him and he can take any lessons and use them when he gets back with the team. Stans may not be 100% in agreement, but also is not disagreeing with it and gave an understanding acceptance.
Maybe Stans wants to send Sid a message and is making him do this, while spinning it to make it seem like it's Sid's idea.
Then again, maybe Sid took a **** in Grant's new office.
Call me a sheep, but I'll keep a cautious positive outlook on this. Until we lose to Tennessee Mime Tech.
AA - TMT's pic-n-roll screens are legendary