Shark Attack - NRL bites

[Graham]

The NRL has spoken again giving a clear judgement on Cronulla Sharks for perceived failings in how they have been run and how they see the club failed their players health and welfare.

Just look at the details.

A big fine - some of which is suspended subject to them complying.

If by the end of July the club hasn't done enough they could be excluded from the 2014 Finals Series.

 

 

In summary, the findings mean:

* The Club is fined $1 million of which $400,000 is suspended subject to the satisfaction of governance changes and compliance with the NRL rules;
* Mr Flanagan’s registration is suspended for 12 months or until he satisfies conditions imposed by the NRL. However, he may return in nine months, if those conditions are satisfied by then; and
* Mr Elkin’s registration is cancelled. If he were to make a new application within the next two years, it will of course be assessed on its merits, but it is unlikely to be looked at favourably.
 

In relation to the Club, the governance measures required to be put in place include:

* The completion of an independent governance review;
* An assessment of the Club’s risk and control reporting framework;
* Appointment of additional resources in the Club’s football department; and
* Compliance with new supplement and medication rules.

These measures must be completed by 31 July 2014. If they are not completed to the satisfaction of the NRL, the Cronulla Sharks may be excluded from participation in the 2014 NRL Finals Series.
 

In relation to Mr Flanagan, Mr Smith said it is imperative he demonstrates his understanding of his duties and obligations as Head Coach before he returns to the NRL.
 

The conditions Mr Flanagan must satisfy before his suspension will be lifted include that:

* He will need to properly observe the suspension;
* He will need to complete an intensive education and training course focused on his responsibilities as Head Coach;
* Once he completes that course, he will need to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the NRL that he understands his duties and obligations under the NRL Rules.