Paul Kennedy's top five sporting moments of 2012

Updated December 21, 2012 07:20:09

The ABC's Paul Kennedy gives his verdict on the top five sporting moments of 2012.

Look back on a whirlwind year's biggest sporting stories and how they unfolded on ABC Grandstand.

Australian surfing had an excellent year with Stephanie Gilmore and Joel Parkinson both claiming world surfing titles in 2012.

Gilmore claimed her fifth women's world surfing title with victory over fellow Australian Tyler Wright in the penultimate event of the year at Biarritz in France.

She was the first ever surfer to win four titles in four attempts from 2007-2010, but fell back to the number three ranking in 2011 when her life was disrupted by a violent assault.

Read the story: Gilmore wins fifth world title

On the men's circuit, Joel Parkinson ended his long wait for a world title at the Pipeline Masters in Hawaii, edging out 11-time winner Kelly Slater to the gong.

Parkinson's title was a reward for consistency 2012 and could have won the championship without a single event victory.

However, he avoided that particular historical footnote by beating compatriot Josh Kerr in the final to take home the Pipeline Masters trophy as an added bonus.

Speaking at his trophy presentation in Hawaii after his bout with Kerr, Parkinson said:

Read the story: Parkinson wins first world surfing title

The Australians returned home with 85 medals - record breaker Jacqueline Freney with her incredible eight gold medals among them - but the London 2012 Paralympics stood out as a major success that put disabled sport truly on the map.

London Games chairman Sebastian Coe said the huge popularity of Paralympic Games showed disabled sport was fast becoming recognised as elite competition.

An unprecedented 2.7 million tickets were snapped up for nearly 45 million pounds ($72.12 million), exceeding 2012 organisers' original target of 35 million.

More than four billion people were estimated to have watched the London Games on television compared to 1.9 billion eight years ago in Athens.

Read the story: Paralympics put disabled sport on the map: Coe

Sydney's famous pressure paid big dividends as the Swans held off Hawthorn to take out the AFL premiership by 10 points.

Read the story: Swans snatch victory in classic grand final

The grand final surprised no one with its intensity - it was a game of bursts and savage swings of momentum, with first one, then the other team looking down and out, before the Swans won 14.7 (91) to 11.15 (81).

Both teams found kicking for goal difficult in blustery conditions, although thankfully earlier predictions of heavy rain and hail proved unfounded.

Veteran Ryan O'Keefe took the Norm Smith Medal, with 28 disposals and an amazing 15 tackles.

In the NRL, the Melbourne Storm won its first premiership since it was stripped it of two titles for salary cap breaches, beating the Bulldogs 14-4.

Read the story: Clinical Storm repel Bulldogs' bite

Sam Perrett had levelled the scores after Storm forward Ryan Hoffman scored the opening try of the match in the seventh minute.

But Melbourne half-back Cooper Cronk stamped his class on the match in the back end of the first half.

Cronk produced a deft pass for Billy Slater to score in the 32nd minute.

Melbourne consolidated its lead in the shadows of the break with Cronk's pin-point kick for winger Justin O'Neill to score in the corner in the 39th minute.

Melbourne maintained its 14-4 half-time lead through to the end of the game with a superb defensive display in the second half.

The Test team's form may have fluctuated of late, but captain Michael Clarke was a shining light for Australia throughout 2012, averaging 106.35 for the calendar year so far.

Clarke came to life on home soil, scoring a historic 329 not out against India, before making another double ton in the next match during the 4-0 series whitewash in January.

While he made a modest contribution in the West Indies in April (scoring 188 runs in 6 innings), he flexed his muscle at home again, smacking two double centuries against South Africa.

While his efforts against the Proteas were ultimately made in vain, they helped him become the world's leading run scorer of 2012 with 1489 runs.

Read the story: Is Clarke as good as Bradman?

But the stakes have been raised in the upcoming 2013 Ashes series with new England skipper Alastair Cook finding phenomenal form after taking over the captaincy from Andrew Strauss.

Cook led England to a first Test series win in India in December in 28 years, coming from 1-0 down to take the four-match series 2-1.

India won the first Test by nine wickets in Ahmedabad, before Cook led his side to a 10-wicket win in Mumbai and a seven-wicket victory in Kolkata.

Cook was named man of the series after top-scoring with 568 runs at an average of 80.28.

Read the story: Draw clinches India series win for England

Following Olympic disappointment in the pool, Australia's shining light Sally Pearson lived up to her favourite's tag to take gold in the women's 100m hurdles in London.

Read the story: Pearson storms to hurdles gold

Pearson clocked 12.35 seconds to break the Olympic record held by American Joanna Hayes, set in Athens, by 0.02 of a second.

Pearson just edged out America's defending Olympic champion Dawn Harper (12.37), with countrywoman Kellie Wells (12.48) taking the bronze.

The Aussie champion spent six weeks in Britain prior to the Olympics to escape the build-up, hype and pressure in Australia. After her win, she said:

And without Pearson's heroics, how else would this piece of ABC News 24 television history have come about? Take it away, Michael Rowland.

Tags: sport, olympics-summer, paralympics, surfing, nrl, australian-football-league, cricket, australia

First posted December 21, 2012 07:20:09

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NRL approves Sonny Bill contract

Updated December 21, 2012 20:40:46

The wait is finally over for Sonny Bill Williams, with the ARLC informing the Sydney Roosters that the code-hopping superstar's 2013 playing contract has been registered.

After signing a one-year deal with the Roosters on November 13, it has been a drawn-out process for salary cap auditor Ian Schubert to approve the deal.

The dual-international is pursuing a boxing career on the side and has a fight against South African Francois Botha scheduled in February.

Williams represented the All Blacks this year before enjoying a stint in Japanese rugby, and there is every chance he will switch back to the 15-a-side code after his commitments with the Roosters are finished in 2013.

At his welcoming press conference with the Roosters back in November, Williams seemed nonplussed about returning to league, making it clear he was only doing so to honour a handshake promise to the club's chairman Nick Politis.

There were some concerns Williams would walk out on his Roosters deal if the NRL did not register the contract quickly.

Interim chief executive Shane Mattiske said signing off on the deal was a complex procedure.

"By the nature of Sonny Bill's other sporting commitments there have clearly been some unusual circumstances around the contract including his direct negotiation of the contract through a legal representative," Mattiske said.

"It has been the salary cap auditor's absolute responsibility to review all aspects of the payments in the contract and the negotiations leading up to the contract.

"Ian Schubert has done exactly what he is required to do throughout this process and his task has been made more challenging by deficiencies in the Roosters' documentation of the negotiations, which did not fully comply with the NRL's player contract and remuneration rules."

Mattiske said the Roosters can expect a fine in the new year for failing to put all their cards on the table.

The Roosters failed to follow regulations in recording and supplying information to the ARLC, Mattiske said.

Schubert had to seek advice from a solicitor in rubber-stamping the deal and Mattiske said the ARLC would also keep a close eye on Williams commercial agreements.

"There are a number of assurances on the part of the club and in relation to Sonny Bill's commercial agreements that are being relied upon in this process and that will be monitored," he said.

"Given the unusual features of this contract it was necessary for Ian to engage a solicitor to assist with the investigation which included interviews of a number of persons and a consideration of various documents.

"Ultimately, a report of the investigation was furnished to the Commission along with advice from Senior Counsel.

"The Commission has also determined that the club should face a sanction ... the amount of this breach will be assessed following a recommendation in the new year."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, bondi-junction-2022, nsw, australia

First posted December 21, 2012 20:38:34

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Leilua to miss first four weeks

Updated December 21, 2012 18:52:11

Axed Sydney Roosters centre BJ Leilua will have to sit out the first four matches of next year's NRL season regardless of which club he signs for.

The ARL Commission has announced it will impose a conditional registration on any contract submitted for Leilua that he cannot play until after round four.

The ban is in response to Leilua being found to have sent a naked photo of his ex-girlfriend to her brother and best friend and being placed on a one-year good behaviour bond with no conviction recorded.

Leilua was cleared of assaulting his ex-girlfriend.

The 21-year-old was on Tuesday released from the final two years of his Roosters contract and is now expected to sign with the Newcastle Knights once the ARLC officially announces an increase to the 2013 salary cap.

The NRL says it had been in the process of conducting a review of penalties and procedures imposed by the Roosters when he was terminated by the club.

"The matter proven in court is one that nobody can or should support," NRL interim chief executive Shane Mattiske said.

"Respectful relationships and the dangers of misusing social media are key elements of our education programs and BJ has been a part of those programs.

"The timing of the October court case was such that we gave the Roosters considerable opportunity to look at all aspects and report to the NRL.

"No matter if the player had stayed at the Roosters or gone to another club, we believe the original act, now proven in court, warrants the player being stood out of the game for some period.

"We will also seek assurances that any future club ensures that BJ participates in education programs to assist in learning from this experience."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted December 21, 2012 18:52:11

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Roosters re-sign Tuivasa-Sheck

Updated December 21, 2012 12:38:42

Sydney Roosters have locked up impressive teenager Roger Tuivasa-Sheck through to the end of the 2016 NRL season.

Earmarked as the heir apparent to veteran Anthony Minichiello in the Roosters' number one jumper, the 19-year-old was given a taste of the top grade this year when he played six games for the tri-colours.

He was named in the youth cup team of the year in 2012 after scoring nine tries in 12 games before his elevation to the NRL.

"I'm really enjoying being a part of the Roosters. The club has treated me so well ever since I got here," Tuivasa-Sheck said in a statement.

"I'm learning so much and I wanted to stay a Rooster and build a career here."

Roosters' chief operating officer football Brian Canavan said Tuivasa-Sheck was a crucial component of the club's long-term plans.

"Roger is an exciting young talent and has been a wonderful asset to the club both on and off the field," Canavan said.

"Blessed with amazing footwork, evasion and ability to break the line, Roger has the ability to thrill crowds while being a dependable contributor week in week out."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted December 21, 2012 12:32:39

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Eels sack player who knocked out Maitua

Updated December 19, 2012 08:21:41

Parramatta has sacked youth player Shaun Anderson for knocking out clubmate and NRL star Reni Maitua on a night out in Kings Cross in Sydney.

The Eels say they have conducted a full investigation into the incident that took place over the weekend outside the Tunnel nightclub in Kings Cross, and have cleared senior player Maitua of any wrongdoing.

Anderson, 18, has had his contract terminated for punching Maitua to the ground.

It is the second up-and-coming talent the Eels have sacked in the past week, after they also tore up the contract of Jamil Hopoate for bad behaviour at an NRL rookie camp in Sydney.

Eels chief executive Ken Edwards said the club would continue to take a hard line.

"I make no apology for the club's firm policy on player behaviour," Edwards said in an Eels statement.

"When a player signs with Parramatta, they acknowledge the high standards of behaviour expected. Our players need to be committed to the club, their team-mates, our members and supporters.

"As a club we will continue to strive for excellence and foster a culture of respect, inclusiveness and teamwork."

Anderson claimed on Channel Nine that the Eels had showed favouritism by clearing Maitua, who is being touted as a future captain of the club.

"I thought he was about to deck me ... so I stood back and hit him first and that's what happened. And then he was out cold on the ground," said Anderson.

"It's an NRL player's word against an under-20s player's word. Straight up they're going to pick the NRL player aren't they?"

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, kings-cross-2011, parramatta-2150, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted December 19, 2012 08:13:31

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ARLC announces major rule changes

Updated December 18, 2012 20:17:02

The Australian Rugby League Commission has made a series of major changes to playing and eligibility rules after a commission meeting on Tuesday.

The changes include scrapping of the controversial benefit of the doubt rule and a dramatic overhaul of the decision-making process for awarding tries.

From the start of the 2013 NRL season referees will make an on-field call in relation to all try-scoring situations, and if in doubt will signal `time out' and refer to the video referee.

However the video referee will only change the on-field referees' original decision if there is sufficient evidence to suggest that decision was wrong.

The meeting also decided to make a major change to the rules determining State of Origin eligibility.

From 2013 no player will be eligible to play for New South Wales or Queensland unless he has lived in that state before the age of 13.

The father-son loophole will remain, however.

The player must also be eligible to play for Australia.

"State of Origin is an incredibly important part of the game and the heart of the concept is a person's state of origin," ARLC chairman, John Grant, said in a statement.

"It is fundamental therefore that the concept is preserved on that basis, simply because it is so unique.

"The Under 13 cut-off is one that has been put forward by the general manager of game development, Andrew Hill, after consultation with greats like Wayne Bennett, Bob Fulton and Tim Sheens, the state leagues and the Origin coaches."

The ARLC also clarified the definition of what will constitute an illegal shoulder charge.

"Where a defender, without attempting to tackle, grab or hold the ball-carrier (or any opposing player) using the arms or hands, makes direct physical contact using the shoulder or the upper arm (tucked into the side)," the commission's statement read.

ABC / AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, state-of-origin, sydney-2000, nsw, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted December 18, 2012 20:17:02

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Campbell hopes NRL players get pay rise

Updated December 11, 2012 07:02:13

The man who conceived the NRL's All Stars idea - Preston Campbell - said he would understand if players boycotted the rugby league showpiece over a salary dispute.

But Campbell hoped players would consider the impact the game had on the community programs it helped fund before striking.

Campbell was in Brisbane on Monday to help launch the final stage of public voting for the 2013 All Stars clash on February 9 to be held at Lang Park for the first time.

However, Campbell admitted he was concerned the headline event may be a fizzer if big name players opted to stay away.

The Rugby League Players Association held its latest round of talks with the Australian Rugby League Commission last week in a bid to increase the NRL salary cap from $5 million to $6.5 million next season.

Players have refused to rule out an All Stars strike over the dispute.

Campbell said players deserved a pay increase but hoped they did not earn it by ditching the All Stars clash.

"I understand the boys want to get what they can," he said.

"If the boys get a bit more then they deserve it. It's a tough environment playing rugby league.

"But at the same time players have to realise that without the support of the community, without people buying merchandise or going to games, switching the TV on to watch a match, the game wouldn't be as great - we need to remember that."

The All Stars concept has helped raise almost $5 million for NRL community programs in its first three years, with the ARLC hoping to increase the initiatives it supports next year.

The All Stars game was one of the projects that helped the ARLC take out Governing Body of the Year at this year's Beyond Sport Federation Awards in London.

"It would be disappointing if the game wasn't played," Campbell said.

"We would have to work a bit harder in trying to get the message out there.

"This is a great vehicle to get to a wider audience.

"It is making a big difference in so many people's lives."

Broncos star Justin Hodges said a strike would damage the good work the game did on and off the field.

"It would hurt everything," he said.

"As players we want to get paid like everybody else. We deserve it. We put our bodies through a lot of torture.

"But I will leave it to the players association. Hopefully we can get out there and play ... especially a game that means so much to our people."

Public voting on the Indigenous side and a 64-man NRL All Stars shortlist will end on January 14.

Laurie Daley will return as Indigenous All Stars coach while Wayne Bennett will again take up the NRL team's reins.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted December 11, 2012 07:02:13

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Eels dump Jamil Hopoate over behaviour

Updated December 11, 2012 12:58:39

The Parramatta Eels have terminated Jamil Hopoate's contract over behavior issues at an Eels training camp.

Jamil, brother of former NRL star William Hopoate, left the premises of Parramatta's rookie camp in Sydney against strict club orders, and failed to attend formal presentations at the camp.

Hopoate was part of a group of privileged players invited to take part in the camp, which was designed to give an insight into the training and lifestyle requirements of NRL-grade players.

Parramatta CEO Ken Edwards said Hopoate had to go as the club is focussed on players who will put the Eels first.

"Unfortunately Jamil has failed to respond to on-going support, tutoring and mentoring from our dedicated coaching staff as well as our welfare and education department," Edwards said in a statement.

"While the club regrets losing such a talented player, the club has made it very clear that we expect high standards of behaviour across all grades."

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, parramatta-2150, nsw, australia

First posted December 11, 2012 12:57:37

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League trumps rugby in charity boxing

Updated December 16, 2012 08:20:37

Plenty of punches landed but there was no serious damage as rugby league came out 3-1 winners in its rivalry with rugby union in a charity boxing event in Auckland.

NRL players Paul Gallen, Greg Bird and Manu Vatuvei all won their bouts over three two-minute rounds at the Fight for Life for prostate cancer awareness on Saturday night.

Former All Black Carlos Spencer got one back for rugby, while Willie Mason and another ex-All Black, Troy Flavell, fought out a draw in the battle of the big boys.

NSW skipper Gallen proved the surprise packet with a unanimous decision against All Blacks hooker Hika Elliot.

At the weigh-in, Gallen had talked down his abilities against an opponent who boasted a 62-0 record in karate.

But the Cronulla forward picked his moment to throw his punches and was able to find his mark with a series of combinations.

Gallen said he had privately backed himself, even if all the talk about Elliot's ability had made him nervous.

"I didn't want to be over-confident, to be honest," he said.

"I heard so much about the bloke and how good a fighter he was, I just wanted to go out there and do what my trainer told me."

Despite his clear-cut victory, he won't be hurrying back into the ring.

"I've got no plans to be a boxer."

Gallen won despite carrying an elbow injury from training a couple of weeks ago and for which he will have surgery on Thursday.

He said the rehabilitation period was only a fortnight, so he would be 100 per cent for the new NRL season.

Vatuvei also got all the judges' votes against London Games rowing gold medallist Eric Murray.

The Warriors winger could not quite tag Murray with a big shot, his opponent managing mostly to keep himself out of range, but he was buzzing after the fight.

"It was an awesome feeling," he said.

"I'm happy I jumped in. Eric and I went in to put on a good show and hopefully everyone enjoyed it."

Bird won an incident-filled contest over Blues back Rene Ranger via a split decision.

Bird was caught flush with a right hand in the second round and dropped to the canvas.

But Ranger was docked two points for throwing the punch after the referee had called for the fighters to break.

"I've copped bigger hits than that on the footy paddock," Bird said.

"I'll be right. The head's pretty solid."

Spencer got a majority verdict over former Kiwi Jarrod McCracken.

The bout developed some feeling, with Spencer unhappy with some of McCracken's tactics, including a couple of punches thrown when Spencer's back was turned.

"A win's a win," he said.

"It was more like a league match than a boxing match."

Mason and Flavell provided plenty of entertainment with a mix of big punches and occasional wrestling, and could not be separated by the judges.

In a six-round women's lightweight professional bout, New Zealander Daniella Smith's aggressiveness paid dividends as she beat Australian Lauryn Eagle by unanimous decision.

AAP

Tags: boxing, rugby-league, rugby-union, new-zealand, australia

First posted December 16, 2012 08:07:28

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All Stars boycott unlikely: Gallen

Updated December 11, 2012 13:16:45

NSW and Cronulla captain Paul Gallen claims talk of a strike is premature in the players' quest for a greater slice of the NRL money pie.

Gallen, preparing for a charity boxing bout in New Zealand on Saturday night, said he did not believe the players and the NRL were too far apart as negotiations continue for a salary cap increase.

With ARL Commission chairman John Grant desperate to limit a cap increase in a bid to preserve money in a future fund, speculation has arisen that players could boycott next year's All Stars game if their demands are not met.

But Gallen denied that option was under serious consideration.

"There's no way in the world players want that," Gallen said.

"We love the fans, it's a blue-collar game and the fans love us because we get out there and we put our body on the line every single week.

"We certainly don't want to get to that stage. There certainly hasn't been talk about that."

Gallen was confident the resolution could soon be found in talks for a new collective bargaining agreement.

"I think both sides are working hard to get something done," he said.

"I don't think we are too far apart and every meeting I've been to, they've been more productive.

"It's certainly not a stand-off ... certainly no rush to get it done."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted December 11, 2012 13:16:45

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NRL calls for HSG to honour player payments

Updated December 13, 2012 18:18:50

The NRL has called on the Hunter Sports Group to use the upcoming half million-plus club grant payment to pay its players, in the wake of the Tax Office's move to wind up the Newcastle Knights.

As a result of Nathan Tinkler's $2.7 million debt, the ATO announced plans to wind up both his NRL franchise and A-League side, the Jets.

Knights members' investments are secured by a $20 million bank guarantee, but the NRL wants to ensure players and staff do not become casualties in the argument between Tinkler and the ATO.

To this end it wishes the upcoming $583,333 the club receive later this month will be put aside for wages before being used elsewhere.

"Hunter Sports Group continues to assure us that the club is in a sound position," NRL interim chief executive, Shane Mattiske, said.

"There are also clear safeguards agreed by Nathan Tinkler and the Knights at the time of the sale of the club that remain in place.

"These include a significant bank guarantee.

"It is important in the meantime that we ensure all commitments are met to players and staff and we are simply ensuring through the payment of the grant that these are a priority."

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, newcastle-2300

First posted December 13, 2012 18:17:04

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Tinkler keeps control after Knights meeting

Updated December 18, 2012 01:09:30

Mining magnate Nathan Tinkler has maintained his control over the Newcastle Knights NRL team after an emergency meeting of the club's board and members.

Last week the Australian Tax Office moved to wind up the Knights and the Newcastle Jets A-League franchise because of a $2.7 million debt.

The debt is owed by Mr Tinkler's Hunter Sports Group (HSG).

The Knights Members Club (KMC) board has been increasingly nervous and there was speculation it would ask Mr Tinkler to hand back the club's NRL licence.

There was a $20 million bank guarantee when Mr Tinkler privatised the club in case things turned sour.

Mr Tinkler's right-hand man, HSG chief executive Troy Palmer, Knights boss Matt Gidley and coach Wayne Bennett addressed the meeting and did their best to allay members' fears.

Mr Palmer and Mr Gidley reinforced their view that HSG intends to pay the tax bill in the next few weeks.

The pair also said all of HSG's creditors would be paid, and that an audit report into the Knights' 2012 financial operations would reveal HSG had met all requirements.

After the meeting, Mr Palmer said it was business as usual for HSG and the Knights.

"Everyone agrees what a great job Nathan and the team has done and where the club has gone in a short period of time," he said.

"I think the members club are more than happy with that after asking their questions today.

"We are excited about next season."

Board chairman Nick Dan confirmed he had received assurances at the meeting.

"We want to see the club fully capitalised and I'm confident that this football club will always survive," he said.

ABC/AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, newcastle-2300, nsw, australia

First posted December 17, 2012 20:55:00

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Cowboys rope in Tamou

Updated December 10, 2012 13:25:57

Star forward James Tamou has re-signed with North Queensland for another three years after a break-out 2012 season.

Tamou will remain a Cowboy through 2016 in a massive signing coup for the Townsville-based club.

It is the perfect early birthday present for the young prop, who turns 25 on Thursday.

"When I first came to the Cowboys, I hadn't played in the NRL and now I'm playing Origin and Test footy which shows how much being here has helped my game," Tamou told the club's website.

"I owe this club a lot and I love the area and the people here so my goal was to stay with North Queensland.

"I think we have a great squad and can challenge for titles next year and beyond that."

Tamou has played 78 games for North Queensland since his debut in 2009 and signalled his arrival as a true NRL force when he was named for all three State of Origin clashes for New South Wales last season.

"After the way he played this year, I think everyone now knows what a talented footballer James is," Cowboys general manager Peter Parr said in a statement.

"His 2012 season was one of the best by a front-rower in this club's history.

"Not only did he play representative football, he excelled at that level and he was among our best players week-in, week-out with his team-mates recognising him with the players' player of the year Award.

"At 24, his best years as a forward in the NRL are still ahead of him and our members and fans can look forward to at least his next four years being with the Cowboys."

New Zealand-born Tamou played for the Junior Kiwis in 2007 and New Zealand Maori in 2008, and was selected for the Kiwis' Four Nations squad in 2011, but pledged allegiance to Australia this year.

He made his Kangaroos debut in the ANZAC Test in April and scored a try against his country of birth in Australia's Test win on his home ground in Townsville in October.

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, townsville-4810, qld, australia

First posted December 10, 2012 13:25:57

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Smith joins Brumbies coaching ranks

Updated December 11, 2012 08:09:23

Former NRL coach Brian Smith has joined the coaching staff of Super Rugby club the ACT Brumbies for next season.

Smith coached NRL clubs Parramatta, St George Illawarra, Newcastle and the Roosters.

Smith never won a premiership in more than 20 years as a top grade coach, but his football experience and track record with young players will certainly help an inexperienced Brumbies squad.

He will take on the Brumbies' role vacated by Newcastle Knights veteran Danny Buderus, working alongside Brumbies head coach Jake White.

Brumbies' chief executive Andrew Fagan says Smith will bring a wealth of experience to the club.

"There is particular focus of his work around those defensive systems, but I think because of his experience we'll be using him to look at exchanging ideas in all sorts of areas," Fagan said.

The Brumbies' appointment of Buderus as a part-time coach was over even before it started, with the NRL blocking the rugby franchise's move to sign him as a collision coach.

The league issued a statement seeking "an immediate explanation" from the Knights with regards to the deal after saying no third party agreement had been lodged as the NRL salary cap requires.

Brumbies boss Andrew Fagan said he thought that Buderus had Newcastle's blessing but evidently not the NRL's.

The Knights later said in a statement that the final agreement between Buderus and the Brumbies had not been seen by the club and needed to be submitted to and approved by the NRL.

But Newcastle chief executive Matt Gidley did say the club had encouraged Buderus to seek varied work experience.

Tags: super-rugby, rugby-union, nrl, rugby-league, sport, canberra-2600, act, australia

First posted December 11, 2012 08:03:06

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ATO pushes to wind up Knights, Jets

Updated December 13, 2012 20:50:56

Senior figures at Newcastle's NRL and A-League teams say Nathan Tinkler is working quickly to pay a multi-million-dollar tax office debt to avoid the clubs being wound up.

The ATO has filed documents with the Federal Court to wind up Mr Tinkler's Hunter Sports Group, the Newcastle Knights and the Jets due to debts of $2.7 million.

The documents show the Knights have debts of $1.4 million, the Jets owe just over $1 million and HSG has debts of $184,000.

The two clubs and their parent company were given notice of the debts in September but failed to pay within the 21-day deadline.

A hearing has been set down for February 20.

In a video message to fans, Knights chief executive Matt Gidley says it is business as usual for the club.

"I've been advised that the outstanding payment to the ATO will be paid shortly and the issue will be resolved," he said.

"Our number one priority at the moment is to support our football team and not let this affect the great work our coaching staff and players are doing currently.

"For now, it's business as usual for us at the Knights."

Jets chief executive Robbie Middleby says the club remains focused on the current season.

"Our main concern at the Newcastle Jets at the moment is that the players and the staff over in Perth have got their mind on the jobs."

Football Federation Australia and the NRL says they have been assured the teams' operations will not be affected.

The news comes just weeks after another two of Mr Tinkler's companies were placed in liquidation and his private jet was seized.

The ATO has declined to comment further on the action.

An NRL spokesman says the league has been told the club's "issues" are under control.

The Jets are in Perth for tomorrow night's game with the Glory, and forward Adam Taggart says the news has not unsettled the team.

"It's something we can't really do anything about, so at the end of the day it doesn't really affect us," he said.

"We're going to go out there as a team and feeling the same as every week, so I don't think it really affects us too much to be honest."

Midfielder Ruben Zadkovich said a similar thing at a pre-match media conference in Perth.

"We don't know much about it. It's just business as usual for us, we're just focused on the football, and leave all the off-field stuff to them," he said.

Hunter Sports Group has issued a statement saying it was unaware of the ATO's action until being alerted by the media.

A spokeswoman says it is business as usual for both Newcastle clubs.

"We advise that any outstanding sum will be paid as soon as possible, well before the reported hearing date on the matter next February," the statement says.

Former Knights chairman Rob Tew, who brokered the deal to sell the club to Mr Tinkler, says it does not spell the end of the club.

"There's a course of action that's clearly identified within the sale of contract which includes accessing the bank guarantee and the club returning to a membership-owned entity."

The president of Jets supporter group the Squadron, Tim Verscheldon, says it is another hurdle for the club, which was on the brink of financial collapse when Mr Tinkler took over in 2010.

"I personally will never knock Nathan for what he's done for this town, this region, both sporting clubs," he said.

"He came in and saved us from the brink and put us on a new path, everything is just a stepping stone to something bigger."

Professor Ian Ramsey is the director of the Centre for Corporate Law and Securities Regulation at the University of Melbourne.

He says the matter may not get to court, if the debts are repaid before then.

"If this amount is disputed by the companies concerned, the critical job for the court is to work out what amount, if any, is owed," he told PM.

"But of course there is a major threat over the companies, which is that unless they pay this amount the court finds that it's owing, the court can wind up the companies.

"And effectively that means the appointment of a liquidator, a company's assets are sold, and that's the end of the company. That's the end of their businesses."

Tags: tax, a-league, nrl, newcastle-2300, nsw, australia, muswellbrook-2333

First posted December 13, 2012 11:51:25

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Pre-Christmas deal up to players: RLPA

Updated December 14, 2012 12:30:09

Rugby League Players' Association (RLPA) chief executive David Garnsey says a pre-Christmas agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement is solely down to the speed of NRL players accepting the proposal.

Garnsey will on Friday - in conjunction with the NRL - formalise a document for club delegates to take back to their team-mates, with the assumption players will make a call before they break next week for Christmas.

"There's sufficient enthusiasm and ability, more to the point because they're in training - they're not spread to the four wings as they might be if they were on leave, [so] that they can [act] relatively quickly," Garnsey said.

"I would hope the players wouldn't need to think about it for huge numbers of days before forming a view.

"Before Christmas is eminently possible, but I don't control that end of it - that's up to the players."

It is believed a hectic week of negotiations has delivered a $5.8 million salary cap for the 2013 season - an increase from the current $5 million, yet short of the players' target of $6.5 million - that includes a minimum wage of $80,000.

Several players have been part of the negotiations, but Garnsey says it is vital all players have a voice.

"We'll be making sure we can get as wide a view as possible from the playing group," Garnsey said.

"I'll be relying on my captains and my club delegates to hold individual meetings with their clubs and discuss the proposal thoroughly with all the players so they can get back to me with a response.

"The ultimate goal here is that every member of the association has a chance to feed his view into what's happening. We're not going to restrict it to a limited group of players to make this call."

AAP

Tags: rugby-league, nrl, sport, australia

First posted December 14, 2012 12:27:31

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Life lessons through league

Kathleen Dyett

Updated December 11, 2012 19:54:47

It was a gruelling training session and former NRL star Alan Tongue definitely put participants through their paces.

For six weeks Tongue has been training and mentoring young people behind the wire fences of Canberra's Bimberi Youth Justice Centre.

He developed the program which is based on his experience on the field and at rookie camps.

"There's so many positive messages that sport and in particular rugby league can pass on and lessons about life," Tongue said.

"I've been putting this program together for a while and with the help of a lot of people here, we've got it in."

During the mentoring sessions, Tongue has encouraged the young people to respect others, take responsibility for their actions and work hard to achieve their dreams.

Those same lessons are played out on the centre's oval during training sessions and no one is let off lightly.

"I actually get the guys to set the standards and the rules that we're going to live by," Tongue said.

"We have physical penalties for bad language which is a bit of a laugh at the start until you can't walk towards the end of the first session because it's so hard.

"That trust has really just built up. We've really created a good sense of belonging and I think a lot of kids who come in here are really longing for that."

Bimberi's programs and services manager Leonie McKenna says she is already seeing results.

"We've noticed a change in some of the behaviours in the young people and they've actually brought through some of the messages in their daily life," she said.

"They've actually pulled each other up in some of their behaviours, which is a sign the messages are getting through."

Ms McKenna says she would like to see the program continue at the centre and it could be run once a term.

At Bimberi, 16 youths have successfully completed the program and received a Canberra Raiders jersey for their efforts.

One participant, who can not be named, says he has always been an NRL supporter and it has been great to meet Tongue and learn how to train hard.

"He's shown me how to be confident - just to dream, achieve and believe about ourselves and look after ourselves," he said.

"I've been playing football since I was six and it has really shown me how life is better being good and trying real hard in life."

Tongue plans to continue running the program at Bimberi and also hopes to expand into schools and other youth justice centres.

Tags: states-and-territories, rugby-league, act, canberra-2600

First posted December 11, 2012 19:52:21

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NRL, players close to salary cap deal

Updated December 13, 2012 07:01:07

Players and the NRL moved closer to resolving their stand-off over a salary cap increase on Wednesday as the league unveiled a naming and digital rights deal.

Players and players' association representatives were locked in talks with NRL officials, both sides conceding some progress in their bid to find common ground as they attempt to split up the game's broadcast deal riches.

ARL Commission chairman John Grant indicated the new five-year deal with Telstra, worth more than $100 million and double the previous deal, had already been factored into its discussions with players, who are seeking a $1.5 million rise in the current $5 million cap.

"We've seen some really positive progress today. There's a range of issues that we continue to discuss," interim NRL chief executive Shane Mattiske said.

"But I'm very pleased with the way those discussions have progressed today and we seem like we've made some progress towards coming to a conclusion."

Mattiske declined to comment on the specific nature of the progress.

New South Wales Origin and Cronulla skipper Paul Gallen said the NRL had been responsive after the initial slow start to talks.

"Things are looking very positive," he said.

"They've moved a long way from where they first started.

"As players, we're definitely getting to where we need to be. We're not there yet but it's not too far off."

Under the terms of the digital rights deal, NRL matches will be broadcast live on mobile phones and tablets, with the telco giant extending its association with the NRL into a 17th season.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, australia

First posted December 12, 2012 16:25:17

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League the winner in Folau's AFL exit

Quentin Hull

Updated November 01, 2012 18:27:11

A red-letter day for one code is a red-faced day for another.

'The war' continues to rage but Israel Folau has symbolised an almighty battle within it and today rugby league is dancing on the AFL's battered millions.

The west cannot be bought - the heart and soul of Sydney's working class has repelled the cashed-up invaders from the south.

There were always two stories accompanying Folau's switch of codes and inevitably the journey of an athlete is lost in the cacophony of inter-code combat.

A young man's decision to leave everything he knows to try something new must be applauded. It is also very brave to admit very publicly that it didn't work out.

Australians who live by the mantra of "having a go" - and that's most of us involved with sport - would be hypocritical to knock that aspect of Folau.

Sure, there was a big chunk of cash to be earned, but it's likely his earnings in the next two years will fail to match what would have earned if he saw his AFL contract through.

Folau's story was always bigger than that.

The majority of Giants jumpers bought by fans have the number four on them and the most of the Sydney media or public wouldn't know who Jonathon Patton is.

So where did the AFL go so wrong with Folau compared to what is going so right with Karmichael Hunt?

Marketing was always a huge part of Hunt's recruitment but his talent was undeniably adaptable.

Having seen the amazing PR machine created by Special K, the AFL tried try and replicate it and the amazing vertical leap of Folau was enough to take a risk.

What will really hurt the AFL is that it had its "pawns" stationed in the wrong battlefields.

Success in Sydney and man down on the Gold Coast would have been a much preferred outcome considering the enormity - both in populous and psyche - of the AFL's task in these two frontiers.

Rugby league has always shown itself to be forgiving to a prodigal son and Folau will be welcomed back with open arms.

As for the AFL it might be best served asking the premiers across town, who have been in residence for 30 years, just how tough it is to make it in Sin City.

Tags: nrl, australian-football-league, rugby-league, sport, australia

First posted November 01, 2012 18:25:02

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Anderson appointed as referees' boss

Updated November 14, 2012 12:48:48

Daniel Anderson will be the new NRL referees' chief heading a leadership team as an elite performance manager.

The two-time grand final coach will be assisted by former referees Tony Archer and Russell Smith who take on roles as technical coaches.

The appointments come after a season in which refereeing decisions came under scrutiny, particularly over television replays.

Anderson warned fans not to expect an end to refereeing controversy but said he hopes to bring consistency to the game's officiating.

"I don't profess to have the answer to people arguing one decision or another and we have to accept that there will always be a bit of that in rugby league," Anderson said.

"What I do hope to do is work closely with clubs and referees to ensure rugby league is refereed consistently and that we build an environment which is conducive to referees performing at their best on a consistent basis."

NRL interim chief executive Shane Mattiske said Anderson's ability to build a team as a respected coach with the New Zealand Warriors, St Helens, Paramatta and the Kiwis was a key reason for his appointment.

"At NRL level we have identified performance coaching and team building as key priority areas and Daniel has a strong track record in both. There is a wealth of refereeing talent and technical support available to him.

"Tony Archer has refereed the past six NRL grand finals as well as Test matches and Origins while Russell Smith has refereed Tests, Super League grand finals and Challenge Cup finals.

"Both have been named International Referee of the Year."

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, australia

First posted November 14, 2012 11:55:03

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Stuart says NRL could lose Folau

Updated November 14, 2012 12:38:33

Parramatta coach Ricky Stuart says the club is "punching its head against a brick wall" in negotiations with the NRL over Israel Folau and warns the game risks losing him to rugby if decisions are not made quickly.

After Folau announced at the start of the month he was leaving the AFL, Stuart said the former Test and Queensland Origin back remained anxious to sign with the Eels, but that red tape was still getting in the way.

The NRL must give the green light to Folau's return to the code before any contract can be ratified, just like rugby convert Sonny Bill Williams' Sydney Roosters deal is yet to be rubber-stamped by officials at Rugby League Central.

Stuart said the saga has dragged on to the point where he can no longer be directly involved and he's leaving negotiations to club chief executive Ken Edwards.

"I said early in the piece that we'll move heaven and earth to get Izzy to the club because that's where he wants to play. He's come out and said that, he's from here, he's got a number of close mates here, but we're doing that and it's been a long time so I really don't know where it's going to end up," said Stuart on Wednesday.

"But I can't concentrate on that any more ... all my energy and responsibility has to be put into the team here."

Stuart said no deal had been done between Folau and the Eels and he wanted to distance himself from the specifics of the negotiations between the club and the NRL.

But he was adamant the NRL, who is yet to appoint a CEO, needed to make a swift decision on Folau's status.

"It'd be disappointing for him to go to another code," he said.

"I've just being working hard as the club has with the league to have him play here but we seem to be just punching our heads against a brick wall.

"We're trying to do the right thing by the game and by the league in being transparent ... it would be just nice to get people in positions to make decisions.

"I just know it's getting quite boring and tedious in terms of taking so long, I just wish someone could make a decision, say yes or no and then we can move on."

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, parramatta-2150

First posted November 14, 2012 12:08:10

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Players refuse to rule out All Stars ban

Updated November 30, 2012 23:11:04

A boycott of the NRL season-opening All Stars weekend is still on the cards despite the ARL Commission meeting with a high-powered players delegation in Sydney on Friday.

A who's who of NRL players sat down to address their concerns with rugby league's hierarchy after it emerged the ARL Commission would not budge on its $5 million salary cap for 2013 - $1.5 million less than the figure the Rugby League Players Association had been demanding.

Wests Tigers captain Robbie Farah did not rule out players walking away from the traditional season-opening All Stars clash.

"That hasn't been spoken about but in saying that we need to look at all our options if something is not agreed upon," he said.

"Ideally this would be sorted out a while ago but that is not the case. All we can do is try and reach an agreement."

Farah joined Kangaroos skipper Cameron Smith, Eels stars Jarryd Hayne and Tim Mannah, South Sydney's Mick Crocker and Penrith's Clint Newton in addressing the RLPA regarding a potential cap rise after the $1 billion five-year TV deal was struck by the ARLC in August.

RLPA boss David Garnsey hoped common sense would prevail.

"There has been a comprehensive number of proposals put on the table today - we have had a close look at that but it is going to take some more work on our part," he said.

"We are trying to come up with the best deal possible for the players."

Interim NRL boss Shane Mattiske remained positive despite the talks becoming stalled after a four-hour meeting.

"We are listening. Now we are working to address their issues," he said.

"We have made some progress today and we have agreed to meet early next week to continue those discussions."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted November 30, 2012 23:11:04

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Creagh named new Dragons skipper

Updated November 21, 2012 16:23:49

St George Illawarra has appointed back rower Ben Creagh as the NRL club's new captain for the 2013 season.

The NSW Origin representative takes over from the retired Ben Hornby and is excited about the challenge of taking the Dragons into a new era following the retirement and departure of several key figures over the past few years.

"It's a very proud day for me," Creagh said.

"I've been lucky enough to be involved with this club the last 16 years, started playing for Illawarra when I was under-13s and it's always been a dream of mine to be captain.

"It's something I'm very excited about, something I'm ready for and it's a role at this club I never want to take for granted."

Coach Steve Price said there were a number of worthy contenders for the role, including the likes of veteran centre Matt Cooper and New Zealand international Jason Nightingale.

Creagh however seemed the obvious choice with Price saying he was keen to have a leader in place for the duration of the preseason.

A number of former Dragons skippers such as Craig Young, Brian Johnston and Paul McGregor were on hand for the announcement - all unanimous in their support for Creagh getting the job.

"I was looking for a captain that goes above and beyond the call of duty with the club going forward," Price said.

"He typifies the standards I'm trying to set at this football club.

"It was a decision that wasn't taken lightly but at the end of the day Ben was the number one choice."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, wollongong-2500, nsw, australia

First posted November 21, 2012 13:03:07

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Corruption fears raised at Tigers meeting

By Jean Kennedy

Updated November 21, 2012 07:56:08

A public meeting of several hundred people last night called on the State's corruption watchdog to investigate any links between the Labor powerbroker, Eddie Obeid and the Balmain Tigers re-development.

The meeting was organised by Leichhardt Council to discuss plans to oppose the two-tower development on the former Balmain League's Club site.

While the height of the two-tower development on the former Club site has been reduced by seven storeys, there was still fierce opposition to it at the meeting.

Labor Mayor Darcy Byrne says the former Planning Minister Frank Sartor's revelations at the Independent Commission Against Corruption last week that he was "leaned on" over the project by Mr Obeid, raises serious questions.

"We've seen in just the last week, evidence at the ICAC that years ago Eddie Obeid was out there leaning on the then planning minister Frank Sartor to call it in and be a team player," he said.

"And for too long, this saga has been marked by a lack of transparency."

He called on the ICAC to investigate any links and for the Council to decide the project's fate.

"We demand that control over this site be returned to the local community in one way or another," he said to much applause from the audience.

Balmain resident Ray Stephens told the meeting that with the current ICAC inquiry due to run until next April, there is "much more dirt to come" and some could easily relate to the re-development.

"The worst case scenario would be that this is determined and then the ICAC come out with their findings and find there is a connection," he said.

"Could you imagine the compensation then, that would be paid to certain individuals involved in this project," Mr Stephens said.

"This project keeps giving and giving and giving to certain individuals."

The Mayor says residents have lost faith in the planning processes of Government in dealing with the project.

However there was some support for the 24-storey project.

Resident William Moss told the meeting he could not understand what all the fuss was about.

"I don't see anything wrong with this place," he said.

"The bottom line is the towers are there to turn around and reduce the reliability on poker machines in the Club, right, to turn around and rent 'em out."

The Club says its re-development proposal has never had any connection with the Obeid family.

Interim chief executive Danny Munk says there has been numerous meetings with all levels of government for eight years about the development.

"Our attitude is it's a waste of time we can't tell council what to do and if they do it fine," he said.

"We have no fear of the process with it, it's just something we don't believe that needs to be done," Mr Munk said.

"They should be focussing on other issues, we've made it clear we don't have that relationship with the Obeid family or Eddie Obeid, to us its just another stall tactic."

Tags: urban-development-and-planning, clubs-and-associations, rugby-league, corruption, rozelle-2039

First posted November 20, 2012 10:10:20

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Folau's potential return thrills NRL

Updated November 01, 2012 18:07:29

Rugby league is celebrating the likely return of former star Israel Folau following his decision to leave AFL club Greater Western Sydney.

Master coach Wayne Bennett said Folau will quickly regain superstar status if he returns to the code he left in 2010.

"He is a unique player," Bennett said.

"A lot of us were disappointed to see him go (to AFL) and it's great that he is coming back."

Parramatta has emerged as the favourite to secure the 23-year-old giant following Thursday's surprise announcement that he was leaving AFL.

Folau did not confirm a return to rugby league, telling a packed Sydney media conference he was leaving his future up to his manager.

But Eels chief executive Ken Edwards said the club had already initiated talks with Folau's management.

"We have had discussions with him recently and hope to organise further talks with his management," Edwards said.

"His brother Eni plays with us in the under 20s so there's a family link. That might be important but nothing is certain.

"(And) Ricky (coach Ricky Stuart) and Izzy have a really healthy respect for each other."

Delighted Queensland selector Gene Miles said it would be "very hard" to keep Folau out of the state's record-breaking Origin side next year if he was playing well.

"I'm pleased to have him back," Miles said.

"He was the best in his position at the time when he left and, if he can find that type of form, it won't take much for him to fit back into the Queensland side."

Bennett never coached Folau but always admired his skill and athleticism.

The Knights coach believes the former Melbourne and Brisbane sensation would quickly make his mark again on rugby league despite spending the past two years out of the game.

"Rugby league is his sport," said the seven-time NRL premiership-winning coach.

"The good thing is he'll start the preseason along with everyone else with whichever club he chooses and be right to go in 2013."

Folau's decision to leave rugby league was not well received with some some senior officials but Bennett said the centre or winger, who played five Origin games for Queensland and seven Tests for Australia, would be welcomed back by fans of the game.

"We've had that many players go to other codes like rugby union and come back - Brad Thorn, Wendell Sailor, Mat Rogers and Lote Tuqiri," Bennett said.

"One thing about rugby league - we're not snobs.

"We may have all been disappointed with him at the time (he left to go to the AFL) but that was just the sadness of him leaving."

Miles said it was Folau's magnificent aerial skills which initially grabbed the AFL's eye.

"He scored some spectacular tries in the last series (2010) he competed in and that's what got him an AFL contract," he said.

"He got up in the air and New South Wales just couldn't handle him.

"Izzy can bring all the skills he's learned over the last few years back into our game and we'll welcome him with open arms."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted November 01, 2012 18:07:29

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Thaiday wants ex-player on NRL refs panel

Updated November 19, 2012 16:39:58

Brisbane captain Sam Thaiday believes the ARL Commission should consider adding a retired player to its restructured NRL referees panel.

Thaiday revealed players lost confidence in some referees and the video review system during a 2012 season littered by refereeing blunders.

Referees co-coaches Bill Harrigan and Stuart Raper were both dumped as a result of a review of the refereeing system - with former NRL coach Daniel Anderson put in charge of the whistleblowers and Tony Archer and Russell Smith appointed as technical advisers.

But while Thaiday was happy with the changes, he said the ARLC could go one step further by adding a player's perspective to the panel.

"It was very frustrating for the players but hopefully having a coach (Anderson) on board will help get that consistency we all want," Thaiday said.

"Maybe they could put an ex-player on the panel as well to give it an even better understanding."

Thaiday said players had become increasingly frustrated by the lack of consistency from match officials.

The Broncos forward urged the ARLC to simplify rules surrounding the benefit-of-the-doubt call and controversial obstruction rules.

"They were definitely very up and down last year," Thaiday said of the referees.

"The video ref was a big issue for players.

"You'd play one week and every decision would go upstairs and there'd be lots written in the papers about it.

"The next week, they wouldn't go upstairs at all to take a look, even when it was worth it.

"We need to get rid of the grey areas with the benefit-of-the-doubt rule and clarify what is obstruction and stick to them all year."

Thaiday is still recovering from off-season shoulder surgery, which is expected to rule him out of the All-Stars game in Brisbane, though he remains hopeful of being fit to play in the opening round of the 2013 season.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, brisbane-4000

First posted November 19, 2012 16:39:58

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Folau must earn Maroons spot: Meninga

Updated November 02, 2012 09:26:36

Maroons coach Mal Meninga says Israel Folau will have to earn his place in Queensland's record breaking State of Origin side if he does come back to rugby league next year.

Meninga, who has coached Queensland to victory in the last seven series against New South Wales, said 23-year-old Folau would not be a "walk up start" into his side.

"It's not a lay down misere that if he plays rugby league he is going to go straight into the Queensland side," Meninga told the Courier Mail after Folau announced on Thursday he was walking out on the final two years of his multi-million dollar AFL deal with Greater Western Sydney.

"He has a bit of work to do and I respect the players that have done a terrific job for Queensland for the last couple of years."

Queensland won this year's series with Darius Boyd and Brent Tate on the wings and Justin Hodges and Dane Nielsen in the centres, with Greg Inglis playing full-back.

Folau starred in Meninga's Queensland side in 2008-2010 before the AFL swooped with a massive offer after viewing him as a great publicity magnet for their expansion into Sydney's rugby league heartland, the city's outer west.

Meninga, who invited Folau to call him for a chat, said the former Brisbane and Melbourne star could return to rugby league a better player with the added skills he would have learned playing AFL.

Master coach Wayne Bennett is tipping a quick return to the top for Folau should he return to rugby league as expected, even though he would be out of reach of most clubs who have an extra $700,000 to work with in their upgraded 2013 salary cap.

"Rugby league is his sport," said the seven-time NRL premiership-winning coach, now with the Newcastle Knights.

"The good thing is he'll start the preseason along with everyone else with whichever club he chooses and be right to go in 2013.

"It won't take him long to get back to the top again."

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, state-of-origin, australia, qld

First posted November 02, 2012 09:26:36

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NRL clubs await shoulder charge decision

Updated November 20, 2012 07:04:59

NRL clubs are set to find out if the shoulder charge will be rubbed out of the game on Tuesday, with the ARL Commission expected to announce a decision at the monthly chief executives meeting in Sydney.

Brian Canavan, who is now employed as Sydney Roosters CEO, was handed the task of submitting findings from research into the effects of the shoulder charge.

He said clubs are keen to know where they stand going into the 2013 season.

Canavan, who undertook the review before being re-appointed by the Roosters last month, said there is no conflict of interest and the review did not contain any recommendations.

"It was a full analysis which involved injury data, performance data and GPS data," Canavan said.

"It sought opinion from prominent people in the game. The clubs and players were provided the opportunity to provide feedback.

"So it become an evidence-based report, it was not findings.

"I didn't make recommendations and it's now the property of the NRL.

"I was given a deadline to hand the report in and we should hear tomorrow, which is good as I am sure coaches are keen to find out so they can get the players ready for the new season."

In addition to the shoulder charge, clubs are still waiting to discover what the salary cap will be, with a collective bargaining agreement still to be rubber-stamped by the Rugby League Players Association and the ARLC.

"We were told about three weeks ago to work to a benchmark figure and we've all done that," Canavan said.

"I am sure it will be high on the list of things to be discussed."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted November 20, 2012 07:04:59

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Top End to host Panthers v Titans NRL game

Updated November 23, 2012 11:59:19

Darwin will host a National Rugby League match next year.

The round 17 clash between the Penrith Panthers and the Gold Coast Titans will be played at Marrara Stadium in July.

The game was confirmed this morning when the NRL announced its fixtures for next year.

Only two NRL premiership games have been played in Darwin since 2005.

Tags: rugby-league, regional, darwin-0800

First posted November 23, 2012 11:59:19

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Clubs boosted by Thursday night footy

Updated October 18, 2012 18:21:09

Clubs will receive a $500,000 bonus payment and Thursday night games will be played for the first four weeks of next season as the new television rights deal begins to make an impact on the NRL.

Chief executives of all NRL clubs welcomed the news of the bonus payment at a meeting at rugby league's Sydney headquarters.

At the meeting the clubs were informed that the draw, which will include a schedule of days and times for each match for the first 20 rounds, would be finalised by mid November.

The 2012 season kicked off with a Thursday night game and the success of that fixture led the NRL to extend that to the first four weeks of 2013.

Clubs were eager to find out what long term financial gains they would gain from the new five-year $1 billion television rights deal.

NRL interim chief executive Shane Mattiske said long term club funding decisions and negotiations with the Rugby League Players Association would be advanced in coming weeks.

"The clubs today were positive about the opportunities ahead with the new broadcasting arrangements," Mattiske said.

"The new broadcasting agreements will provide more certainty for fans and a chance to try some exciting new concepts."

The club bosses were also updated on changes to the Titans business structure and ownership to give the Gold Coast club more financial security.

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, robina-4226, australia

First posted October 18, 2012 17:27:15

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Titans want Prince saga resolved soon

Updated October 29, 2012 11:49:47

The Gold Coast Titans want to have the ongoing saga over Scott Prince's proposed move to English club Hull FC sorted by the end of the week.

The Titans begin their NRL preseason next Monday and aim to know then whether half-back Prince will still be with the club for 2013 or take up a three-year offer by the Super League side.

Foundation player Prince has been the subject of protracted negotiations with Hull, with a severance package believed to be the final hurdle to the 32-year-old Titans' captain leaving the Gold Coast.

"We start our preseason training a week next Monday and I'd like to have it wrapped up by then," Titans chief executive David May told the Hull Daily Mail at the weekend.

"We have a lot of work to do to get ready for next season.

"As far as I'm concerned, no decision has been made and we await his decision at our end."

May refuted claims by Prince's agent Steve Robinson that there was no chance of the half-back playing for the Titans next year.

He said Gold Coast would still like to have Prince in their squad if possible.

"Scott has a lot of things to weigh up and I don't know what the outcome will be," May said.

"He is our current captain and a very important player for us.

"He hasn't given any indication yet as to what his decision will be.

"We remain hopeful of keeping Scott here."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, robina-4226, qld, australia

First posted October 29, 2012 11:42:07

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Folau slips through NRL's fingers

Updated December 04, 2012 07:55:42

The NRL has missed its opportunity to secure the services of former Queensland and Australia representative Israel Folau, with the code-switcher reported to be heading to European rugby.

Folau pulled the pin on his four-year, big-money deal with AFL expansion franchise Greater Western Sydney on November 1 after just two seasons, citing an absence of passion for Australian rules.

Last season's NRL wooden spooner Parramatta, under the guidance of former New South Wales State of Origin coach Ricky Stuart, was hot favourite to lure the 23-year-old back to rugby league.

News Limited reports on Monday indicated that the club had made a request to the NRL to deliberately break the salary cap in order to squeeze Folau onto their books for the next two seasons.

The NRL said on Friday that it had been working with the club to ensure Folau could fit under the Eels' salary cap for 2013 and "both believed that significant progress could be made".

But the league confirmed Folau had not accepted a formal, unconditional offer from Parramatta and the athletic back, who earned seven caps for Australia, will not play rugby league next season.

Reports said the former Storm, Broncos, Maroons and Kangaroos star has accepted a lucrative deal to play rugby union in Europe.

"This has come as something of a surprise to us today," Eels chief executive Ken Edwards said in a statement.

"Our offer to Israel was unconditional.

"We have worked closely with the NRL and have always been confident that salary cap issues would be resolved."

After announcing his departure from the AFL Folau did not initially confirm a return to the code he made his name in, but Eels officials said they had initiated talks with the young star's management.

Stuart had said the club would "move heaven and Earth" to get Folau's signature.

In the end a bigger pay day lured Folau away from rugby league for the second time in his fledgling career, with a more lucrative offer on the table from French rugby.

"It is disappointing that Izzie at this stage has chosen to pursue another path but we've also been clear that we are about having players who are focussed on what we are trying to achieve as a club," Edwards said.

"It is why we had previously ruled out short term appearances with other codes. We are comfortable with our current playing roster ahead of the 2013 season."

NRL interim chief executive Shane Mattiske had met with Folau's representatives even before he announced his departure from the AFL and said he had been discussing salary cap issues with the Eels since then.

"We worked in good faith with the club to ensure that Israel's contract could be met within the cap and it is unfortunate that he has elected to pursue another path," Mattiske said.

"It would have been nice to see Israel back in the NRL because it is the game he is most suited to and the one that I think would have given him the biggest challenge in facing the best athletes in the most exciting contests week in and week out.

"Ultimately though it is his choice and we have to respect that. I think Parramatta has done everything possible and we have certainly worked closely with them in that process."

Folau's NRL career began in Melbourne in 2007, where he played 59 matches for the Storm before moving to Brisbane in 2009, scoring 36 tries in 37 appearances with the Broncos.

He made five State of Origin starts for Queensland and played in the inaugural NRL All Stars game in 2010.

Folau made his AFL debut for Greater Western Sydney in round one of 2012 and kicked his first of two career goals in round four against Adelaide.

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, parramatta-2150, nsw, australia

First posted November 30, 2012 18:39:37

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Prince confused by Titans departure

Updated November 05, 2012 11:37:34

High-profile Brisbane recruit Scott Prince has described the events surrounding his departure from the Gold Coast NRL club he captained as "confusing".

Prince admitted to some first-day nerves when the centre of attention as he arrived for Brisbane's first preseason training session at Purtell Park on Monday.

The half-back spoke for the first time about the events which led to him leaving the club which he skippered since their debut in the NRL in 2007.

"It's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride with emotions," said Prince.

The Titans said they were unwilling to take up an option to keep Prince for a further season in 2014 and he finally secured a two-year agreement with Brisbane after coming close to signing a three-year deal with English club Hull FC.

But the Titans will pay Brisbane a large chunk of Prince's 2013 salary as part of his deal reached despite coach John Cartwright saying the 32-year-old playmaker had been a key part of his plans next season.

"I guess at the end of the day it's all in the past now and my family and close friends can all move forward now we have a resolution," said Prince.

"It was difficult how it all unfolded but I've got an opportunity late with the Broncos and I've moved on."

Prince was diplomatic when asked if he felt the Gold Coast wanted his services next season.

"That's probably a question you should ask them (Titans)," he said.

"From my side it was all a bit confusing.

"Both sides, myself and the Titans, would probably say it was disappointing how it all unfolded.

"We're both moving on. I am looking forward to the future and I starting fresh here back in the Broncos colours."

Prince said he thought he would be on a plane going to the UK until he got a late telephone call on Sunday with an offer to keep playing in the NRL with Brisbane.

"It was perfect timing in the end," he said.

Prince had not officially agreed to a deal with Hull who reportedly offered him in excess of $1 million for a three-year deal.

"There was a lot of (media) talk (about the Hull deal)," Prince said.

"It was funny actually sitting back reading stories you guys (media) wrote on the back of lies, it was quite amusing actually.

"I was supposed to have met with Peter Gentle (Hull FC coach) at the weekend but I was out at Roma.

"It was reported on the Monday that we did catch up and that all things seemed to be going sweetly.

"(But) I finally got a formal offer (from Brisbane) on Sunday and discussed it with my family and accepted the challenge they put to me."

Prince said Griffin had made it very clear what he would have to earn a spot in Brisbane's NRL squad.

"I'm very happy to be given this opportunity by the Broncos to get back on the horse and prove myself again," he said.

Prince, who left Brisbane in 2003 after three tough years in which he suffered two serious leg injuries, arrived at training with another of the club's off-season recruits, David Stagg who signed a two-year deal with the club over the weekend.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted November 05, 2012 11:37:34

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NRL, Brumbies collide over Buderus deal

Updated November 08, 2012 17:03:08

The Brumbies' appointment of Newcastle Knights veteran Danny Buderus as a part-time coach is over even before it started.

The NRL has blocked the Super Rugby franchise's move to sign Buderus as a collision coach, saying no third party agreement has been lodged as the salary cap requires.

The league issued a statement seeking "an immediate explanation" from the Knights with regards to the deal.

"It is hard to envisage any circumstance where an agreement could be approved that allowed a current NRL player to promote another code competing in the same market as an NRL team," interim NRL chief executive Shane Mattiske said.

"The announcement today which saw Danny at a press conference in another code's training gear underlines potential issues.

"...as much as we respect Danny’s intentions we do not see any way in which the proposal can be pursued."

Brumbies boss Andrew Fagan told Grandstand the Brumbies would simply have to wear it.

"If it doesn't work for the NRL then so be it," Fagan said.

"We will have to look for someone else but we don't have anyone in mind at the moment."

Fagan said he thought that Buderus had the Knights' blessing but evidently not the NRL's.

"It's certainly an unfortunate series of events," he said earlier on Thursday.

"We tried to provide Danny with an opportunity to pursue some coaching, which he understood he was keen to do.

"That was endorsed and supported by the Knights organisation and Wayne Bennett but unfortunately the NRL weren't aware of the deal.

"They've got some issues with it we would like to see those issues worked through but if that is not the case then we just have to move on."

Fagan said that because Newcastle had endorsed the deal, he assumed the NRL had as well.

The Knights have since said in a statement that the final agreement between Buderus and the Brumbies had not been seen by the club and needs to be submitted to and approved by the NRL.

But Newcastle chief executive Matt Gidley did say the club had encouraged Buderus to seek varied work experience.

"As Danny enters his final NRL season before retirement, we have encouraged him, as we do with all our players, to engage in wide ranging work experience in preparation for life after football," Gidley said.

Mattiske said the NRL provides avenues for players to expand their scope for post-football careers.

"In conjunction with the RLPA [Rugby League Players Association] we provide a range of specialist services to assist players in maximising off-field careers," he said.

"These are all available to Danny and all players."

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, super-rugby, rugby-union, newcastle-2300, nsw, canberra-2600, act, australia

First posted November 08, 2012 16:15:05

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Prince making an early impression

Updated November 26, 2012 17:02:11

Brisbane Broncos skipper Sam Thaiday says latest recruit Scott Prince is already sending strong signals he can be a key part of 2013 NRL premiership plans.

Thaiday says it has taken the 32-year-old former Gold Coast half-back only a few weeks to have a considerable impact on Broncos players.

A surprise two-year signing following his controversial release from the Gold Coast, Prince arrived at Red Hill earlier this month knowing he would have to earn a place in coach Anthony Griffin's squad next season.

Griffin's decision to sign an organiser of his class and vast NRL experience had the desired affect, with the heat going on regular half-back Peter Wallace and youngsters Corey Norman and Ben Hunt, who were each given a crack at filling Darren Lockyer's number six jumper last season.

"It's put pressure on, but it's good pressure," Thaiday suggested, adding that there were question marks over a number of key positions.

While it is still only early days, Thaiday believes Wallace looks fairly safe at number seven, especially after returning to training in good shape and with a terrific attitude to the challenge he has been set.

"He looks pretty safe in that number seven but it's even encouraged him to train a bit harder and pick up a few more skills," Thaiday said.

"Corey Norman and Benny Hunt who were the blokes fighting for that number six position and hopefully having Prince around makes both of them want it even more."

Thaiday said Prince knew he was arriving with no promises from the coach despite an impressive scrapbook which included a grand final win and appearances for Queensland and Australia.

"Scotty being Scotty he's going to fight and do everything he can to play at the Broncos again," he said.

"Everyone has to want it and he brings a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of professionalism and a lot of skill.

"The skills he is bringing out in our skills session are fantastic for a lot of our younger players and our affiliate players as well."

Prince, the 2005 grand final Clive Churchill Medallist, has played 278 NRL games since making his debut with the Cowboys in 1998. He had a previous stint at Brisbane, from 2001-03, playing 28 games.

He gave an all-in press conference on the first day of preseason training earlier this month but is now off-limits to the media to allow him to focus on his preparations.

Brisbane, meanwhile, declined to comment on media speculation it was chasing North Queensland star Johnathan Thurston and had already held talks with him about joining the club in 2014.

Thurston, off contract at the end of next season, was photographed having talks with senior Canterbury bosses in Sydney last week.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted November 26, 2012 16:19:53

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League return a 'tough' decision for Sonny Bill

Updated November 13, 2012 17:45:00

Sonny Bill Williams has admitted that his return to rugby league with the Sydney Roosters was a 'pretty tough' decision to make.

On Tuesday Williams announced his new one-year contract with the Roosters, which marks his return to the sport after four years' absence.

The contract also represents Williams' commitment to a handshake deal he made with Roosters chairman Nick Politis three years ago.

Since 2008 the former Canterbury Bulldogs player has played rugby union in France and New Zealand - including 19 caps for the All Blacks.

However he announced earlier this year he would move to Japan for a lucrative short-term stint with rugby union side the Panasonic Wild Knights before moving to an un-named NRL club in 2013.

Williams confirmed on Tuesday that the Rooster would be that team, but said he has grown to love rugby union and admitted it was difficult to leave the code when honouring his deal with Politis.

"When I did the deal, a lot of great things happened to me in that space, especially going back to New Zealand, winning the Super Rugby with the Chiefs, the World Cup with the All Blacks, a lot of great things have
happened," he said.

"If I'm honest with myself I must admit it was pretty tough to honour what me and Nick agreed about.

"It's going to be a massive challenge. I've met the boys, they're a great bunch of blokes, real young but real enthusiastic and welcoming too.

"I'm looking forward to getting back out there in the game I grew up playing."

The controversial 27-year-old's stint with the Wild Knights hit a snag when he sustained a pectoral injury during a game in late October which required chest surgery.

The surgery was successful, but it could keep Williams out of action for two to four months.

"I've signed a one-year-deal with the Roosters. I've been out of the game for a long time but it's terrific to be back," Williams said.

"I'd like to thank (Roosters chairman) Nick Politis who approached me three years ago with the deal. At the moment I'm still a rugby player, they've given me permission due to the [pectoral] injury."

Despite the deal only lasting one year, Williams expects it to be renewed, all things going well.

"For me, the last four years I've just signed one-year deals," he said.

"I consider myself a boxer as well, now. I think the two for me go hand in hand. It brings the best out of me.

"The pressure is on me as much as it is on the club. I've been out of the game for five years, so it's a big challenge. All I can do is stay humble, work hard and try my best."

Roosters coach Trent Robinson says he has watched Williams play in Japan and, after a number of meetings in getting the deal done, is convinced the player is serious about his NRL return.

"I was pretty clear after [meeting Williams in Japan] that he was serious about a return but also that process of becoming a professional athlete both in boxing and rugby league," he said.

The decision means Williams will again play in 2013 the sport where he made his name.

In 2004 he made his first-grade debut for the Bulldogs at 18, and he made his international debut the same year when selected for New Zealand in the Anzac Day Test match against Australia.

He played in a Premiership side in his first season as the Bulldogs defeated the Roosters 16-13 in the Grand Final.

In 2007 he re-signed with the Bulldogs for five years, but he caused a storm of controversy when he walked out on that contract just 18 months later, switching codes to play rugby union for French Top 14 side Toulon.

He played in France for three years before opting to take a sizeable pay cut to play Super Rugby in New Zealand for the Crusaders - and later for the Chiefs - citing a desire to play for the All Blacks.

The move paid off, with Williams playing in 19 Tests for New Zealand, including a number of appearances in the All Blacks' Rugby World Cup triumph in 2011.

He continued to play in internationals in 2012, making a big impact in New Zealand's home series against Ireland, and scoring against the Wallabies in the first Bledisloe Cup match in Sydney in August.

His contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union expired after he was part of the Chiefs' first Super Rugby title win.

A hard-running, hard-hitting centre or second-rower, Williams will provide attacking options for the Roosters and new coach Robinson.

Williams has also made headlines with a heavyweight boxing career.

He was due to fight South African boxer Francois Botha in Brisbane on November 24, but that bout was put in doubt after succumbing to his pectoral injury.

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia, new-zealand

First posted November 13, 2012 12:06:26

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