If there's a silver lining to come out of all this mess, it's that we now have the chance to become a much more professional club, after all our problems were exposed so quickly and ruthlessly. It's obvious that things can't continue as they currently operate. The Dogs went through a similar experience after Coffs, and now their club (off-field at least) is on much better track than what it was (no, I'm not trying to compare our culture to the Dogs - just pointing out that an ugly affiar can help point a wonky ship in the right direction). It's fairly obvious that right across the board, we need to get much more professional in all aspects. I'd like to see some sort of 5 year plan around the direction the club sees us going, detailing the likes of: ground expansion/repair, recruitment, junior development, sponsorships, community relations, membership growth etc, etc, etc.
If we are that unprofessional, how come we are premiers? How come we are the most successful club in the past seven seasons? How come Canterbury want to buy our culture? Realistically, there appears to be only one truly professional club in the NRL, and that's Brisbane. But they should be - they have all the advantages. Go through all the others and there are dramas. Highlighting just a few: Newcastle, Easts, Cronulla, Tigers. Penrith, Canberra, Souffs, Melbourne, Parra . . . and Canterbury. On-field success is what ever club wants. How you get it - without resorting to Canterbury and Melbourne style salary cap rorting - is largely irrelevant.
Agree with the reorganization requirement. CEO's to consult with Coaches on Player recruitment/retention, but retain the responsibility for the Terms of Contract. One Media Liaison person, so as Fans we are clear on the communications as officially comming from the Club. Sponsorship Scout/liasion Manager so that the Club can renumerate on equal footing with the rest of the Sydney Clubs at least. The Melbourne and Brisbane Clubs' Third Party Pool will never be in the Sydney Clubs' reach. Larissa and the other dedicated back office personel to be acknowledged on the Club Website. Coach and his support Staff to work within the realistic financial constraints of the Club - KPI's are an aspect of operations in commerce. Players to keep on doing what they love to do on the field, and what we are all vicariously delighting in Other Team Supporters to keep hating the ever successful Manly Sea Eagles A streamlined Manly will be even more awsome, bring on the Toovey Era
