As an elected representative for Tathra Rugby League Football Club, I would like to clarify why the Tathra club wasted it’s time putting together Under 18’s, league-tag and reserve grade sides for 2016.
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I am continually asked this, seeing how we were not accepted into the group.
It’s quite simple. From the first meeting with Group 16, we advised them we could field all sides except first grade, and asked where we stood on this. We were told at each meeting not to worry, if we could not marry up with another club under the portability rule, that there was room in the group for one club without first grade.
We were told ... that there was room for one club without a first grade
- Rodney Rutter
After three months telling all the players we would be playing this year, and the town fully sponsoring every jumper, the group in its wisdom, decided we were not wanted and voted us out.
I will say, I believe he majority of clubs wanted us in, but under the voting system in place, we were excluded – but that’s another story.
Tathra RLFC has worked hand in hand with the Tathra Country Club over the past several years, building what we believe ate the best facilities for Rugby League in Group 16. 61 volunteers built new change rooms, canteen, scoreboard and a second ground, without 1 cent being spent on labour – a huge credit to our town, which all now seems in vein.
For Group 16 to think it is that strong, it can vote out a club that nominated every grade from under 7’s to reserve grade is mind boggling. For example, our great under 18’s, who played together from under 7’s right through, with four rep players, are now fully disbanded. The four rep players have gone to other clubs, the rest are now playing soccer or Aussie rules or nothing at all. They don’t want to be forced to play for another town.
I believe country football is about each town having a chance to have their own club, colours & supporters, and not be told they have to amalgamate with anyone else. I am truly sorry for Tathra Football Club as this year was to be a 90yr celebration of Tathra’s involvement in Group 16.
We have been left with no alternative but to look at the possibility of starting a pub competition to give our kids the chance to play football for their town.
Rodney Rutter
EX Tathra Group 16 Representative