THE Manly Sea Eagles have created history, appointing two women to its board - the first club in the National Rugby League do to so.

Melinda Gainsford-Taylor has been officially appointed to the Eagles board, joining Brookvale lawyer Kerry Chrysiliou who became a director earlier this week.
The Olympian has replaced Philip Dean and is the new Manly Warringah District Football Club representative.
Incoming director Jack Elsegood and Gainsford-Taylor’s appointment completes the new-look board aiming to end the turmoil which has marred the club in recent months, culminating in the resignation of chief executive Grant Mayer.
Gainsford-Taylor, who is also an Eagles Angel, said she was excited about her position on the board.
“I’m really flattered and honoured,” she said. “It’s a very positive step forward for the club. It has been well documented what’s happened in the past and now we’re moving forward.
“Manly have always been very supportive of women and the Eagles Angels have been welcomed with open arms.”
Football club chairman and Eagles director Bob Reilly (who replaces outgoing chairman Kerry Sibraa) said the new-look board was a giant step forward for the club.
“It’s all part of the healing process,” he said. “It’s putting us on the right foot going forward. The new appointments will alleviate the tensions on the board and allows the place to function as it should. The board needed wholesale changes. For us to do it now, mid-season, should show a united front on and off the field as we close in on the finals.
“It’s certainly a step in the right direction.”

http://manly-daily.whereilive.com.au...ins-the-board/

Bradza said the following on Tue Jun 30 14:20 2009

Mel was also interviewed by Andrew Moore on 2GB on Sunday night. She managed to come across as very polished but with a sense of humour and common sense. It was great to not hear a single um or arrr from a sports person in five minute interview. After hearing this interview I felt very confident regarding her ability to handle the task and add to the organisation.

Canteen Worker said the following on Tue Jun 30 12:20 2009

Narrow mind or Narromine eh???

Matabele said the following on Tue Jun 30 10:51 2009

She will bring some good Narromine practicality to things.

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