From the desk.. May 2011

Welcome to the latest instalment of items that will be sent out to keep us all abreast of what is happening in the Newcastle Rugby League.

Start Times.

Guys, we are still having clear instances where sides are just being too tardy in getting on the field. Please be aware that the League is taking this seriously and will look to put a fine system in place in future for instances where there is not an acceptable explaination provided for not coming on to the field as and when required. Starting times are to be adhered to where possible and this involves all sides preparing with this in mind on game day.

Media.

There have been too many instances where Clubs and /or individuals have made public comment without speaking to this office before making statements.

Please again be well aware that the Board are looking at these matters, especially when they pertain in any way to Judiciary when all Appeal processes have not been exhausted.

If there is dissatisfaction with a sentence, there is a process to follow which does not include speaking to the media in any instance.

Representative News.

A huge congratulations to all involved in the Newcastle Rebels Under 18 representative sides performances in the Country Championships. To be beaten in the Final by a quality Western Rams side is no embarassment and the three boys chosen in the Country side deserve their spots. Well done Blake Chaffey, Ryan Wood and Brad Russell.

The Senior squad for the Round One game against Canberra down there has now been selected and comprises:

Training with new coaches Paul Skovgaard and Ian Bourke will commence Wednesday 11^th May 2011 at 6 pm at Dangar Park, Mayfield.

This fixture will be played on Friday 27^th May 2011 with at this stage travel down to be on Thursday 26^th May 2011 at around 5pm to allow players to hopefully only require the one day off work.

FAO’s on the field.

This is an old chestnut that has again raised its head in the last few weeks.

Please note that the FAO is allowed to be on the field whilst their team is in possession and on the basis that water is being administered.

Feedback and observation suggests there are clear instances where trainers are on the field without even having bottles and hanging in the line for full sets.

The Referee’s have the right to, and will receive direction from this office to enforce, a scenario to warn and remove trainers guilty of this from now on.

Player Points.

Please be aware that all Clubs can view on the system where they are at with their own Points for 2011. If you require information on how this can be accessed, please contact either Simone or myself at the office.

Programs.

Apologies for some issues we have been encountering with the printing of the weekly programs. Hopefully the matters will be rectified this week to ensure these problems are not evident in future.

Registration Monies.

Please note that Instalment 1 of the registration monies is now due and payable as at the end of April 2011. Invoices should be to hand, please ensure these are paid in a timely fashion.

Other Matters.

Just a reminder that if anyone has any issues at all, please let Simone or myself know so we can attempt to resolve whatever it might be for you.