Special Notices

Cronulla Caringbah Inaugural Opens & 20's Sevens Tournament

You are invited to participate in Cronulla Caringbah JRLFC inaugural Open's and Under 20's Sevens Tournament on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th of February 2008.

The competition will be held at Endeavour 2 & 3 fields on Captain Cook Drive, the grand finals will be played at Toyota Stadium.

The rules of the competition are the same as the World Sevens, which will be forwarded to you along with the code of conduct and all other documentation once your club nominates to participate.

The cost to enter a team in the Tournament's will be $550.00 including GST.

Prize money for the tournament will be as follows

1st Prize $3500
2nd Prize $1500
3rd Prize $550
4th Prize $550

There is only 30 teams in each tournament and spots are filling fast. If your club wishes to enter a team, please forward your application to us ASAP.

Please note each team will only be able to register 12 players for the tournament using 11 players per game.

Once we receive your application, you will then be forwarded all rules and information and an invoice for your team that will be required to be returned within 7 days to ensure your teams spot in the tournament.

We look forward to hosting this tournament and look forward to your clubs participation.

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Cronulla Caringbah Rugby League Sevens Tournament 2008 

Team Participation Agreement.

Please complete all sections of this form: OPEN OR 20'S

Club Name: ________________________________________________

Team Name: ________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________

Contact: __________________________

Phone: ____________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Fax: ____________________

I wish to book a team place in the 2008 Cronulla Caringbah Rugby League Sevens Tournament and agree to the REGISTRATION FEE OF $550.00

I agree to accept any terms and conditions outlined in the Tournament Rules and Regulations and the Code of Conduct information sheets accompanying this registration form along with any further conditions that may be set down by the tournament organisers (ie. Cronulla Caringbah Rugby League Club)

Attached is a cheque for $550.00 made payable to Cronulla Caringbah Junior Rugby League Football Club.

Name: ________________________

Signature: ____________________

Date: ______________________

Position: _________________________

A COMPLETED COPY OF THIS FORM AND FULL PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY 31ST JANUARY 2008 IN ORDER FOR YOUR CLUB'S APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED.

Contact Peter on 0413 511 090 or
Email: Peter at peter.malone@... or
Fax: to 9896 6866

Please note: A receipt will be issued upon payment and all Team Participation Agreement forms and registration fee should be posted to:

Attention: Peter Malone
P.O. Box 305,
PENDLE HILL NSW 2145

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RLCM DVDs January 2008

2008
* DVD - Tim Rogers AIS, Warm up and Cool Down
* DVD - Danny McAllister, 15 Awesome Fitball Core Exercises
* DVD - Joey Wright, Brisbane Bullets NBA Basketball coach
* DVD - Tony Smith, Great Britain Coach
* DVD - John Dixon, Wales Celtic Crusaders Coach

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* DVD - Canberra Raiders 2007 Coach Neil Henry
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QRL Administrators Conference - Gold Coast February 8-10
We all know how vital a pre-season is to a rugby league team's premiership prospects. But what you might not know is just how important the administrators' version of a productive "pre-season" can be.

With a range of new topics and presenters, the QRL Administrators Conference to be held on the Gold Coast from February 8-10, will bring you up to speed quicker than your flashy winger's sprint to the try-line.

Wide Bay Division Manager Gary Dunbar has seen the benefits of the conference first hand both as a QRL employee and as a delegate. He claims the event provides club personnel with a great perspective on both traditional club operations and the methods employed by other clubs in the rugby league community.

The conference offers a mixture of topical issues presented by specialist presenters including administrative content relevant to club and local league delegates. The program finishes at lunch time on Sunday.

Along with providing a great networking opportunity, Dunbar says the conference arms participants with new ideas, knowledge and skills which can in turn "ease the burden" on hard-working Executives and Committee members.

Conference sessions begin on Saturday morning, February 9, with four streams:

* Stream 1 - Club Administration
* Stream 2 - Providing Safe Environments
* Stream 3 - Topical issues facing RL Development
* Stream 4 - LeagueNet & New Technology

The event represents a fantastic social and club networking opportunity with an optional 'Social Package' of accommodation, golf and dinner also on offer for Friday, February 8.

For more information contact your Division office (South West (07) 46324381, South East Qld (07) 33932888, Wide Bay (07) 41232165, Central (07) 49223639, Northern (07) 47716166) or QRL Projects Manager Troy Morton on (07) 33932222.

Click here to access the self calculating registration form. QRL

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AUSTRALIAN RUGBY LEAGUE DEVELOPMENT
GPO Box 4415, Sydney NSW 2001
Ph: 02 9223 6586

ARL High Performance Coaching Seminars

As previously indicated, the 2008 ARL High Performance Coaching Seminars will be conducted as follows:

Sydney Seminar
17th & 18th January, 2008 - Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club
117 Rydedale Road, West Ryde NSW 2114

Brisbane Seminar
2nd & 3rd February, 2008 - Queensland Academy of Sport
Level 1, Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC)
Kessels Road, Nathan QLD 4111

In the past, coaches have used the seminar as an update to their coaching knowledge and expertise. The seminar also acts as a component of the ARL High Performance Coaching (Level 3) course.

Please find application forms for both seminars, a draft timetable for both seminars, including the confirmed presenters and times.

A number of presenters will be confirmed prior to the end of the
year.

To reserve your place in the seminar, please complete the attached nomination form and return it using the fax and postage details outlined below.

We look forward to including you in the seminar(s).

Regards,
Luke Ellis
Education and Training Manager
Luke Ellis - Education and Training Manager
Australian Rugby League Development

P: 02 9223 6586 l M: 0408 274 936 l F: 02 9221 9333
E: lukeellis@...
W: www.arldevelopment.com.au

ARL High Performance Coaching Seminar - Sydney

17th & 18th January, 2008

Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club
117 Rydedale Road, West Ryde NSW 2114

Thursday, 17th January 2008

9:30am Opening address

10:00am Preparing teams for short term Competitions
Presenter: Ricky Stuart (Head Coach - Cronulla Sharks RLFC)

11:15am Character assessment of athletes
Presenter: Rosanna Stanimirovic (Australian Institute of Sport)

12:15pm Blending natural flair and attacking structure
Presenter: Malcolm Reilly (former coach of Newcastle Knights RLFC)

2:00pm Breaking the monotony of training
Presenter: Richard Shuttleworth (Australian Institute of Sport)

3:00pm Total athlete development
Presenter: Wayne Goldsmith (Moregold Consulting)

Friday, 18th January 2008

9:00am Developing halfbacks and ball players
Presenter: TBC

10:00am Time and motion analyses and implications for training
Presenter: TBC

11:20am Keynote speaker: 'Things I've learned as a professional coach' Presenter: TBC

12:20am Developing and utilising leadership groups
Presenter: Ray McLean (Leading Teams)

2:00pm Coaching ethnically diverse athletes
Presenter: Ivan Cleary (Head Coach - New Zealand Warriors RLFC)

3:00pm Coaching panel discussion

4:00pm Closing address

Please note that times and presenters are subject to change due to changes in availability.

ARL High Performance Coaching Seminar - Brisbane
2nd & 3rd February, 2008

Queensland Academy of Sport
Level 1, Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC)
Kessels Road, Nathan QLD 4111

Saturday, 2nd February 2008

9:30am Opening address

10:00am Preparing teams for short term Competitions
Presenter: Jan Stirling (World Championship winning Opals basketball coach)

11:15am Developing and utilising leadership groups
Presenter: Ray McLean (Leading Teams)

12:15pm Blending natural flair and attacking structure
Presenter: Malcolm Reilly (former coach of Newcastle Knights RLFC)

2:00pm Breaking the monotony of training
Presenter: Richard Shuttleworth (Australian Institute of Sport)

3:00pm Total athlete development
Presenter: Wayne Goldsmith (Moregold Consulting)

Sunday, 3rd February 2008

9:00am Developing halfbacks and ball players
Presenter: TBC

10:00am Time and motion analyses and implications for training
Presenter: TBC

11:20am Keynote speaker: 'Things I've learned as a professional coach'
Presenter: TBC

12:20am Character assessment of athletes
Presenter: Rosanna Stanimirovic (Australian Institute of Sport)

2:00pm Coaching ethnically diverse athletes
Presenter: TBC

3:00pm Coaching panel discussion

4:00pm Closing address

Please note that times and presenters are subject to change due to changes in availability.

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Application Form For High Performance Coaches Seminar
Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club 17th & 18th January, 2008

Please return application form to:

High Performance Seminar
Australian Rugby League Development
GPO Box 4415
Sydney NSW 2001
Fax: (02) 9221 9333
Email: lukeellis@...

I wish to apply for acceptance as a Seminar participant. I confirm that all information given is correct and accurate to the best of
my knowledge.

I enclose a cheque/money order for $150.00.

Name: ______________________________

Signature: ___________________________

Date: _______________________________

Note: Information supplied below is strictly confidential and will be treated accordingly.

Surname: ____________________________

Given Names: ________________________

Home Address: ______________________________________________________________

__________________________________________

Postcode: ______________________

Postal Address: ______________________________________________________________

__________________________________________

Postcode: ______________________

Contact Details: Phone: ______________________________

Seminar Fee $150.00

Mobile: _____________________________

Fax: _________________________________

Email: _______________________________

Accreditation: NCAS/ARL ID: ________________________

Accreditation Level: ___________________

Current Coaching: Club: ________________________________

Position: _____________________________

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Application Form For High Performance Coaches Seminar
Queensland Academy of Sport 2nd & 3rd February, 2007

Please return application form to:

High Performance Seminar
Australian Rugby League Development
GPO Box 4415
Sydney NSW 2001
Fax: (02) 9221 9333
Email: lukeellis@...

I wish to apply for acceptance as a Seminar participant. I confirm that all information given is correct and accurate to the best of
my knowledge.

I enclose a cheque/money order for $150.00.

Name: ______________________________

Signature: ___________________________

Date: _______________________________

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Click for Latest News

Alan Davidson tackles new challenge - WHITEHAVEN'S community development manager Alan Davidson is to leave the Recre next month after two successful years in which he has spearheaded the club's off-field efforts.

He is to take up a newly-created post with the RFL as club and coach development officer for Cumbria, based in the west of the county.

The RFL is creating 14 such positions across the country in a fresh initiative to bolster the game.

Davidson was previously Allerdale RL development officer for over two years and boasts an impressive CV.

He coached Kells and Maryport in the Cumberland League and was GB Under-21s assistant on the tour to the United States in 2001.

The ex-Haven hooker played a major role in the club being named National League community club of the year in 2003, alongside Gary Hewer, and he went on to launch Workington Town's scholarship scheme. Cumberland News

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How Crooks carved a name for himself - Short, fat and grumpy is how Lee Crooks described himself as a youngster starting out in the world of sport.

Now as Hull KR assistant coach, he says he's a little bit taller and slimmer - but still just as grumpy.

Perhaps his grumpiness can be traced back to his first day playing sport at Orchard Park School when he was always the last to get picked for teams.

In those days, football was his one and only outlet, wearing his pride and joy George Best boots.

He may not have shared the skills of Northern Ireland's most famous sportsman but in the following 25 years, Crooks was to make his name as famous in Hull as Best's was in Britain.

His transfer from Hull to Leeds in 1987 commanded a world record transfer fee of £150,000 - the same amount of money Castleford forked out to bring him to the Jungle three years later.

His success in rugby league came as a surprise to everybody in Crooks' family, including himself.

Nobody in his family had even played the game before he made his league debut at prop for Wainthropp Junior High School.

"I was quite surprised at how well I took to rugby league" said Crooks, looking relaxed at Rovers' training session at Total Fitness.

"I had no knowledge of the game when I started out playing as a nine-year-old.

"My dad Bert was from Tilbury, Essex and he was a football man.

"My dad helped me the most to start with making sure I got to training and matches on time."

In those early days, his George Best boots didn't last as long as his glittering career did. But they helped the budding star kick his way to the top of the English game. Read more Hull Sport

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Domestic World Cup Travel The Rugby League Experience is providing a range of packages for local, interstate and visitors. To be kept up to date with all the latest tour information you can register your interest here

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Stuart Marshall retires after 12 years touch judge - Wakefield-based Stuart Marshall has retired from the professional game at the age of 58, after 12 years as a top-flight touch judge.

Marshall, who also worked for the RFL as appointments officer in the match officials department, is returning to a career in engineering.

He ran the line in three Challenge Cup finals, two Super League Grand Finals and two World Club Challenges, as well as in eight Test matches.

Marshall will continue to referee local amateur games and will remain a member of Wakefield referees' society. Read more YorkshireEvening Post

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Trinity Wildcats move was just right, declares Paul Reilly By Peter Smith - Veteran Paul Reilly today admitted that he feared joining Wakefield Trinity Wildcats could have been a mistake.

But with more than a month of pre-season training and one game under his belt, he is now convinced that he has made the right decision.

Reilly spent a decade at Huddersfield Giants, being rewarded with a testimonial last season, before being released at the end of the 2007 engage Super League campaign.

His former Huddersfield boss, John Kear, acted quickly to take the full-back/winger to Belle Vue and the player is relishing the new challenge.

Reilly admitted: "The nearer it got to pre-season training, the more I was thinking to myself that I'd made a mistake.

"But I was in a situation where I was glad Wakefield came for me.

"Financially, I was in a bit of a rut and Wakefield helped me out.

"I'm thankful for that and hopefully I can pay them back by having a great season.

"I knew going into the second week of pre-season training that it wasn't a mistake.

"I knew John from the past, he has coached me before, but all the lads and everyone connected with the club were great.

"I was panicking over nothing. It was a bit of an experience the first week, it was like having a new job after being in one for 10 years.

"I didn't want to move, but I am so glad I have now and I would personally like to thank John for signing me."

Reilly made his first appearance for Wildcats in the Boxing Day Tetley's Challenge win at Leeds Rhinos.

He said: "Obviously it was going to be a bit nerve-racking, it has been a big change after playing at a club for so long, but I was quite pleased.

"I got a knock early, but I managed to last until half-time and then for a further 10 minutes and I managed to come back on at the end, so, overall, I was happy with my performance.

"It is hard, you don't know what to expect and you don't know who you're coming up against.

"We had players who've never played alongside each other before and we had a few first teamers out.

"The match gave a few other people the chance to claim a place in the first Super League game, so I am sure there's a few - if not most -- of us who were happy with their performance.

"A lot of the young lads had a good performance and it's good for the club that they're knocking on the door to put pressure on some of the experienced first teamers.

"I have got a bit of experience and if I can pass that on to one or two of the youngsters, that'll be good."

Of pre-season so far, Reilly - who is contemplating hanging uphis boots at the end of engage Super League XIII - added: "It has been real tough, but pre-season training always is.

"It has been consistently hard work, but if you've enjoyed the week then that says something about the lads and the coaching staff.

"I'm enjoying it and hopefully if I do finish this year, I'll finish on a high." Read more YorkshireEvening Post

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RLCM we will reproduce some of the questions and answers which featured on the LeagueCoach website. Feel free to use the forum link to barter thoughts on coaching and training drills and philosophies. Thanks to all those who contributed during the month.

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Hull FC's Kirk Yeaman's top-two dream - Hull FC's Kirk Yeaman KIRK Yeaman is positive a top two place is there for the taking next season - as long as Hull FC right the wrongs of their last campaign.

The 24-year-old centre said one of the most disappointing aspects of 2007 was Hull's failure to pick up points against teams they feel they should be beating.

Dropped points at home to Catalans, Wakefield, Harlequins and Huddersfield made a chase for the play-offs all the more difficult for Peter Sharp's men.

It is a scenario the players are determined to put right next season as they aim to get back in the top two.

Yeaman told the Mail: "We know as a group that we are one of the strongest teams in the league and the other teams don't like playing Hull.

"We are looking to finish in the top two and that is our aim.

"We need to start strong and win the games we are meant to win. There are no easy games, but there are teams we should be beating which we didn't beat last season.

"If we can do that this season, then I am sure we will finish in the top three - and possibly the top two." Read more Hull Sport

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Steven Mead is back to boost Milford Marlins By Peter Smith - Try-machine Steven Mead is ready to give Milford Marlins' National Conference Division Two promotion hopes a massive lift.
The free-scoring centre bagged 15 tries this season before departing - along with team-mate Danny Mitchell - for a spell in Australia.

But Mead is now back in Leeds and is set to slot into a full-strength Marlins side for today's visit of Castleford Lock Lane (2pm).

Marlins are third in the table and on a run of nine straight league wins after losing their opening three fixtures.

Meanwhile, leaders Normanton Knights, who are two points better off, make the short trip to Stanley Rangers (2pm).

Oulton Raiders will be out to complete a Premier Division double - and keep their play-offs hopes alive - when they visit rock bottom Eastmoor Dragons (2.30pm).

Raiders, who haven't played for three weeks, could be without first-choice centre Danny Hardy (ankle).

Tommy Griffiths expects to play after recovering from mild concussion and skipper Carlos Sanchez is available following family commitments.

Third-bottom Thornhill Trojans are away at Siddal (2pm) while Castleford Panthers play host to West Bowling (2pm).

East Leeds go into their final game of 2007 at promotion-chasing York Acorn (2pm) seven points adrift at the foot of Division One.

Easts' hopes of kick-starting an unlikely survival bid could be boosted by the return of key men Anthony Gregg (flu), Tom Idle (shoulder) and Lee Fisher (hamstring), if they come through fitness tests.

Adam Moore is expected to be available following an ankle problem, but Marcus Gardner is suspended. Read more YorkshireEvening Post

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Code's great moments honoured By Steve Ricketts - Rugby League's centenary year shapes as a wonderful celebration of the sport at all its levels.

The various centenary committees around the country have ensured that the focus will not just be on the NRL, with regional areas, schools, referees, volunteers and supporters also receiving recognition.

The code comes under enormous media scrutiny in New South Wales and Queensland and it will be more intense than ever in 2008 as the rule is run over the impact of centenary events which culminate with a World Cup in October-November.

Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium will host the World Cup final on November 22, the first time the city has hosted the climax to such a tournament.

Sydney clubs Newtown, Souths, Balmain, Roosters (Easts), Wests and Norths will be the first to host centenary celebrations, as they were all formed in January-February, 1908.

Newtown and Norths now play in the NSW Premier League while Balmain and Wests have formed a joint venture (Wests Tigers) at NRL level.

The now-defunct Glebe club was the first to pledge its allegiance to the new code on January 9, 1908.

Rugby league in Queensland began officially with the formation of the Queensland Rugby Association on March 28 that year - an event which will be celebrated with a re-enactment of the meeting at La Boite Theatre on the anniversary date.

Afterwards, invited guests will go to Suncorp Stadium for the Broncos-Cowboys round 3 NRL clash.

Rugby league started in Australia after news broke that a New Zealand side would tour Britain in 1907-08 and play teams from the "Northern Union" which had developed a new version of rugby with 13 men a side instead of 15.

Disgruntled Australian rugby union players, tired of what they perceived as poor treatment from their ruling body, were involved in a series of meetings with businessmen and other prominent sporting people, culminating in the formation of the NSW Rugby Football League in August, 1907.

The signing of union superstar Dally Messenger was the big breakthrough for the fledgling league which played three matches against the New Zealand All Golds before they left for Britain.

There were eight clubs in the first NSW competition in 1908 but it wasn't until the "great defection" of September, 1909, when the 1908 Wallabies switched to league, that the 13-man code became entrenched as part of Australia's sporting scene.

In 2008, all 16 NRL clubs will send their 25-man top squads to Sydney on Saturday, February 2 for an unprecedented Fan Day which the Australian Rugby League believes will be the biggest public event in the game's history.

It will be a far cry from Birchgrove Oval and Wentworth Park in Sydney in April, 1908 when about 3000 fans turned up at each ground to witness double-headers involving the eight foundation clubs - Norths, Souths, Easts, Wests, Glebe, Newtown, Newcastle and Central Cumberland.

Queensland representative sides played against New Zealand, the Maori (including a game at Warwick) and NSW in 1908 but there was no formal club competition as in NSW.

Still there were teams which provided football outside the representative area including North Brisbane A and B, Milton, Valley, Toombul, St Bridget's, a team from Webb and Co Office Clerks and a Combined 13.

Club league started in 1909 with North Brisbane, Toombul, Valley and South Brisbane the pioneer sides with Milton also entering a senior side later in the year.

The Tweed Seagulls club which now competes in the Queensland Wizard Cup also kicked off in 1909 and has fielded teams every year since.

An Ipswich competition kicked off in 1910 and clubs also were established in Gympie, Warwick, Childers and Maryborough as the game spread in the bush.

Ipswich also fielded a side in the Brisbane premiership and beat Toombul 17-2 in the 1910 final.

The contribution of the "bush" to rugby league will be celebrated with the Toyota Centenary Cup which aims to find the best country side in Australia with every Queensland region and NSW Country group represented.

The best team from each state will meet in the "cup final" as a curtain-raiser to State of Origin III in Sydney.

At least 10 regional centres will host gala weekends involving skills clinics, community activities and a "local derby" between traditional rivals.

Local footy heroes - not necessarily NRL players - will be invited back to their home towns for the celebrations.

It was once the case that "local" players were heroes for the kids of country towns before television beamed top flight sport of every description across the nation.

In 1978, for instance, the likes of Greg Platz, Allan Smith and Peter Connell would have been just as well known and respected for their deeds in the Toowoomba club competition as players running around in Sydney and Brisbane.

Brisbane and Townsville have been included in a National Museum of Australia tour showcasing "treasures of the game" and there are hopes of a permanent league museum being established at Suncorp Stadium.

The first league Test played in Australia drew a crowd of 20,000 to the Sydney Showgrounds on May 9, 1908, with New Zealand triumphing winning 11-10. The Centenary Test between the two countries will be played next door at the Sydney Cricket Ground on May 9, 2008.

The 2008 State of Origin series will kick off with both sides wearing 1908 heritage jerseys while 100 years of interstate rivalry will be celebrated at a gala function at Brisbane Convention Centre on June 10, the night before the return Origin clash at Suncorp Stadium. Courier Mail

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An interesting article for coaches to read from the London Times - RLCM Editor

Sam Allardyce sticks with principles in bid to carry on regardless By George Caulkin - As Sir Alex Ferguson gave warning yesterday that the managerial position at Newcastle United was in danger of becoming a poisoned chalice - "I'm not sure it's a job you'd want to take," he said - the incumbent at St James' Park called for a renewed sense of patience and unity at the troubled club. "It's been a very tough Christmas and a very tough week for us," Sam Allardyce acknowledged.

Having drawn at home to Derby County, lost away to Wigan Athletic, had his credentials questioned by supporters and learnt that Joey Barton, his midfield player, had been remanded in custody, it would be pushing the issue to suggest that Allardyce was in hugely festive spirit on the eve of Newcastle's visit to Chelsea. His mood, however, remains determined.

The manager's tactics and signings may be a legitimate source of debate, Alan Shearer's name may have been sung at the JJB Stadium, Barton's charge of common assault and affray may be another damaging and embarrassing distraction, but both he and Ferguson made a valid point: how sustainable is the perpetual unrest that clings to the club in such dogged fashion?

"It seems to me that Newcastle, as soon as they lose a game, their manager's career is threatened," Ferguson said. "How many managers have they had in my time at Manchester United? The thing with Newcastle fans is that they think they should be winning games 5-0 all the time. They have got to say to themselves that time is the thing.

"I would be astounded if they sacked Sam. I'm convinced that of all the managers they've had, he's capable of doing better than most."

Allardyce is attempting to restructure a quicksand club on firmer foundations, yet time is no longer afforded to managers in the Barclays Premier League. At present, senior figures at Newcastle are insistent that dismissal is neither imminent nor inevitable, but the tolerance of Mike Ashley, the billionaire owner, who regularly sits with fans, is a known unknown.

"Changing things is only brought about by a long, slow process but, of course, that doesn't wear well in the game of football," Allardyce said. "But it's the only way you can really sustain success. Because of this football club and its history, it's all doom and gloom. It's never anything other than crisis, but there is no crisis here.

"There's only the disappointment of a result and performance that wasn't good enough. But in the last two games we were only a smidgin away from better results and it's not a crisis. People outside make it a crisis or try and influence things, but what we have to do as a team and as a group of people is to stay strong and be focused on what we know is right and not let those influences affect us.

"I've never known anybody set up a successful business in three or four months. It simply can't happen. In the past, some people - far too many of them - have gone out and tried to buy their way to the top, but that's not sustainable. It might get you there in the short term, but it can't bring you long-term success at a football club, because it has to come from a more structured and focused plan. The best two teams this season are Arsenal and Manchester United and they've got the two longest-serving managers."

What Allardyce will not do is change. He believes his success at Bolton Wanderers is now "a burden" because of his reputation for favouring direct football - "we're not capable of playing that way here," he countered - but his scientific methods, from diet, psychology, to eking every per cent of effort from his players, cannot be established immediately.

"We're getting that message across, we're consistent in our delivery of that information and we're not going to be distracted from what we know is successful," he said. "It stays consistent, year in and year out. The players are my challenge, nothing else. It's them I'm interested in and the club as a whole after that. I have to make them better and make them more consistent.

"I'm working on that 24/7. In between, whether results are good, bad or indifferent, it's about not changing what you know works and sticking to your guns. And not to show any signs of weaknesses, because that's easy for the players to pick up on and use as an excuse. That isn't and won't be the case. It's about staying together and trying to do what's right." London Times

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Domestic World Cup Travel The Rugby League Experience is providing a range of packages for local, interstate and visitors. To be kept up to date with all the latest tour information you can register your interest here

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Taylor-made for Broncos
THE NRL's hottest front-row prospect David Taylor is a fortnight away from signing a new deal at Brisbane, revealing his desire to be a Bronco for life.
Storm snatch promising junior
MELBOURNE have completed a major signing coup by poaching Canberra junior James Woolford, the nephew of former Raiders captain Simon Woolford. Read more Daily Telegraph

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Broncos face salary cap probe
James Hooper: THE Broncos have become tangled in a potential salary cap breach involving four former players, a wealthy shareholder and a racehorse.
Code's great moments honoured
RUGBY League's centenary year shapes as a wonderful celebration of the sport at all its levels. Read more Courier Mail 

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Groom on FNRL list for World Cup by INDRA SINGH - FIJI-born Aaron Groom, has declared his availability for the Vodafone Fiji Bati for the Rugby League World Cup.

A rookies tipped for big things with the Bulldogs in 2008 is tagged as one of the stars of the future in the National Rugby League competition,

Groom is among the handful of top grade players who could be front runner for a Bati jumper at the RLWC in Australia next October.

Groom was outstanding for the Manly Sea Eagles in the Premier League.

His well timed breaking runs with deft footwork and brilliant passing game caught the eyes of Bulldogs selectors.

He joins another Fiji Bati, Ryan Millard at the Bulldogs.

Fiji National Rugby League chairman Peni Musunamasi said while they had received a number of verbal confirmations from players, they will require a written consent.

"We will be writing to all these NRL players and clubs regarding their availability because we need something official from them before we start firming things up," Musunamasi said.

High profile players including Groom, Millard, his brother Daryl Millard, Brisbane Broncos new recruit Ashton Sims, Newcastle latest signing Wes Naiqama and Bradford Bulls utility back Semi Tadulala are some of the stars being eyed by FNRL to play for the Bati at the World Cup.

These NRL players will be automatic inclusions in the side and will not have to attend trials.

However they will have to notify the FNRLif they will be available for the Bati.

Fiji is pooled with France and Scotland in Pool B of the RLWC in Australia.

The Fiji Bati faces France on November 1 at the WIN Stadium in Wollongong.

Its second pool match against Scotland will be at the Bluetongue Stadium in Central Coast on November 5.

RLWC - Pool A: Australia, New Zealand, England, Papua New Guinea. Pool B: Fiji France, Scotland. Pool C: Tonga, Ireland, Samoa. Fiji Times

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Lower Clarence Magpies swoop on feast of football - Rugby League heavyweights will converge today on Yamba for the Lower Clarence Magpies Rugby League Club's annual sportsmen's bash.

The event, at three o'clock, is being hosted by the Yamba Golf and Country Club.

Guests include the chief executive officer of New South Wales and Australian Rugby League Geoff Carr, Saint George coach Nathan Brown, Cronulla player Luke Douglas and Newcastle Knights player Danny Wicks.

MC will be Steve (Chimes) Gillis, a former rugby league journalist and commentator now specialising in sports management with a string of NRL players as clients. Magpies president Garry Anderson said yesterday the club was looking forward to an entertaining and informative afternoon.

"There will be a huge memorabilia auction, with signed jerseys from the Rabbitohs, Roosters, Titans, Saint George, Newcastle Knights, Cronulla, and plenty of an affordable assortment of NRL-signed gear,training singlets and shorts, caps, balls and Queensland State of Origin training shorts signed by Nat Miles, plus more.

"There will be a huge seafood raffle with the famous Brownys Heads and Tails.

"It is a very casual afternoon, with a bus running from Brooms Head and return.

"Refreshments and food are provided in the cost of $25 per adult, with Under-16s $10. Tickets are available at the club and at the door on the day, with a 2.30pm arrival for a 3pm start.

"The event is not just for the men, all the family are welcome" , Mr Anderson said.

The free bus will leave Brooms Head at 1.30pm, with pick-ups along the way, and return to Brooms around 7pm. Enquiries: Garry Anderson 0419-610158. Grafton Examiner

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Graham Lees to coach Ballina Seagulls By Steve Spinks - The Ballina Seagulls came within five minutes of winning the Northern Rivers Regional Rugby League premiership last season before being swamped by Mullumbimby late in the match.

But wholesale changes have been made at the club.

Brian Rix is the new president but the main change sees Graham Lees taking over from Chris Binge as first grade coach.

Lees is no stranger to the Seagulls.

He has played and coached at the club in various grades for 23 years.

"I applied for the job three years ago but the club went a different way.

"But I was still really keen to do it, so when it came around again I didn't hesitate.

"Ballina's got a really good crop of young guys so I'm keen to coach them."

High on the agenda is improving Ballina's defence.

"I'm a bit from the old school, it's part fitness and definitely attitude, but I think the local game has gone away from defence.

"I think there's been more of an emphasis on scoring tries. But I want my team to be hard to crack."

Lees started playing league in Wollongong before graduating to Balmain's Under-23 team.

A handy five-eighth, the massage therapist then moved north and linked with Ballina in 1985.

In his first year he won the Group One player of the year award and later played for NSW Country.

Lees has captained-coached Ballina, Mullumbimby and Byron Bay but he returned to Ballina in the early 1990s and was involved when the Seagulls won their premiership in 1993 under Al Perry.

Lees has also held numerous junior representative coaching roles and has had recent stints at the Australian Institute of Sport with Brian Johnston and a week with Nathan Brown at St George-Illawarra.

The coaching team Lees has assembled is second to none.

Tyler Iverson will coach reserve grade and Greg Barnes the Under-18s, while Chris Kinna will be head trainer and Rod Sironen will help out on a part-time basis as defence coach.

Rudi Meir, a Southern Cross University sports science lecturer, will assist as conditioner.

Meir has held head trainer positions with professional rugby league and rugby union clubs in Australia, South Africa and England.

Lees has already had most of his young charges training for six weeks and all of them have been given a gym program to follow over summer.

If Lees has his way, five minutes won't get in the way of the Seagulls winning their first premiership since 1993. Northern Star

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Aussie wins a deal with Salford City Reds on the back of YouTube clip By GARETH WALKER - When Aussie Chris Borgese's rugby league career nosedived, he took up surfing - and relaunched his career in double-click time.

Borgese was one of more than 100 Aussie youngsters left reeling by the - decision to scrap reserve grade and replace it with an under-20s league Down Under.

Just 20, Borgese faced a stark choice of either stepping down a level or packing his bags and searching for new opportunities overseas.

It was then the Canberra Raiders junior hit upon his innovative way to revitalise his career.

Borgese decided to post a highlights internet video of himself on YouTube and within a week, he had landed himself a deal with Salford City Reds.

Thought to be the first cyberspace contract in the sport, it will see him line up alongside Robbie Paul as the Reds look to secure a Super League licence for 2009.

"It was something I'd thought of while I was at Canberra doing a marketing course," said Borgese of his novel approach to job-hunting.

"You learn how to sell yourself if needs be, and that's what I had to do.

"I knew which highlights I wanted putting in, and I took the tapes to a guy who was a junior coach at Canberra, and he sorted it out for me.

"I was interested in coming over to England, but instead of posting my highlights to all the clubs, which would be too expensive and I wouldn't be sure they'd received it, I decided to put it on YouTube.

"I then sent an email to each club with the link on, and that made it a lot easier.

"Batley Bulldogs enquired almost straight away, and I think the Welsh team Celtic Crusaders were interested as well.

"After I'd sent out the emails, there were five clubs in Queensland chasing me too, but the Reds offer was by far the best.

"The Salford coach Shaun McRae gave me the initial call - but it came up as a private number on my phone and I don't answer those calls. I gave it to my mate to answer and he said 'I've got Shaun McRae on for you'.

"Shaun is pretty big in Australia - everyone knows who he is - so I wasn't sure if my mate was kidding at first.

"But as soon as I spoke to Shaun I was buzzing about the chance to come to Salford."

Now Borgese, who can play hooker or half-back, is hoping to play a key role in the Reds' National League One campaign next year.

And he believes the YouTube route could help other players.

Borgese, who took advice from Canberra's ex-Wigan player Michael Dobson before heading for England, added: "I've not heard of anyone doing it before, but I'd recommend it to other people.

"If it's worked for me, there's no reason why it can't work for other people.

"If there's loads of people doing it, it might not be quite as rewarding, but I was lucky because it was pretty unique at the time."

Salford director of football Steve Simms said of the former Aussie Under-18s skipper and New South Wales schoolboys star: "We believe Chris has the potential to be a very special player for us.

"He has bags of skill and we are looking forward to working with him." People.co.uk

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Matt Parnis back from brink to play with Mackay Cutters If ever there was a mistake that was waiting to be corrected, it was made by Matt Parnis.

Parnis is a signed-up member of the Mackay Cutters rugby league team, which makes its debut in the State League, the second strongest Australian rugby league competition, next year.

The 180cm, 90kg back rower has sensible ambitions. Now 30, he wants to be a permanent member of the 17-man squad, and perhaps play four to six games for the season.

It is a measured approach by a seasoned footballer, but a still young man who ran into big trouble in 2005 when he was jailed for three years over importing ecstasy and cocaine from England.

He served 12 months.

Parnis is open about the sale of the drugs and how they changed his life.

"It was never about using drugs; it was about making money when I was struggling for bucks. It was the biggest mistake of my life and all I wanted to do was correct it."

As he sat in jail he knew he wanted to be a good man, a good footballer. He probably already was. He agrees the conviction and jail time was the making of him.

Now he is the branch manager of Tradelink Plumbing Services on the northside, responsible for 20 staff.

He was recently a dad for the second time, with a new son, Riley, aged just five weeks. He and his "rock", wife Lisa, also have a daughter, Kaitlyn, 8.

Now the highly successful dad and business manager can play his footy.

"The conviction changed my view of life; I see things differently, and I certainly don't take things for granted.

"A lot of people in Mackay knew about the drugs and I didn't want to be remembered for that. Who would?"

Parnis loves the training and work ethic involved in becoming a top flight Cutter.

He trains six days a week. In the off season he runs, does weights, swims.

He said his strengths on the football field are his line running and defence.

Weakness? "My pace, but I now have that older footballer's cunning."

The former Mackay Souths and Magpies player, Brothers' player and Foley Shield five eighth and centre, will win a life trifecta if he achieves his Cutters dream  good job, wonderful family and playing football at its peak.

Parnis will also play for premiers Brothers again this year.

Mackay Cutters' coach Shane Muspratt was just simply confident of Parnis' chances yesterday.

"He trains awesome," Muspratt said. And after showing plenty of courage to fight back, Parnis deserves every success. Mackay Mercury

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Barrow rugby league community play it for Chris Massey The rugby league community will come together to remember Chris Massey at Craven Park today.

The former Barrow Island and Barrow Raiders player was tragically killed in an accident at Kimberly-Clark in November.

And at 2pm today Barrow Raiders and a Barrow and District Select side will square up to commemorate his life by playing the game he loved best.

The game is officially Barrow's first pre-season friendly ahead of the National League Two season, but all money raised will go to Chris's family and Raiders coach Dave Clark said the match paled into insignificance when compared with remembering his former team-mate.

"It will be a big occasion in respect of Chris," said Clark. "The players are playing the game for him and it shows our respect to him.

"I have some great memories of Chris playing at Barrow.

"He came from the amateur scene and he had just played for Great Britain under-18s and I built a good friendship with him on and off the field.

"He was a good kid. There was one word that came out during his time at Barrow and that was respect. He wanted that from the players and I think he got that through his attitude and his passion for the game."

Clark spoke to the Barrow players earlier this week and asked which of them would like to play in the game.

He gave the first choice to those local players who knew the 28-year-old personally and as a result Barrow will be fielding an entirely local side.

Among them will be Clark himself, who retired at the end of the 2006 season and Phil Atkinson, who followed his lead a year later.

Another former Craven Park player, Darren Carter, now in charge of the club's Academy team, is also expected to feature.

Among those in the crowd will be Chris's parents Sandra and David, who will be the guests of the home club, while the Barrow and District team will also include many players who lined-up with and against him.

Today's fixture comes ahead of Barrow's friendlies against Warrington, Whitehaven and St Helens.

Clark said the game will help with match fitness you cannot get at training, but added: "It's not much about that, it's to respect Chris.

"It's good that everybody wants to participate in the game for that reason.

"Players might know him through work, through playing against him, through being at the same club - everybody knew him in their own way."

A minute's silence will be observed before tomorrow's kick-off and a collection will be held during the game, with proceeds going to a charity of the Massey family's choice.

At half-time there will be a match between Dalton and Barrow Island under-eights. NW Evening Mail

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Terry O'Connor appointed sporting director Widnes Vikings

Former Great Britain and Wigan prop Terry O'Connor has been appointed as sporting director of National League One club Widnes Vikings, who have also added a second former player, John Stankevitch, to their coaching staff.

Thirty-six-year-old O'Connor, who played out his distinguished career with his home-town team, will play a role in the Vikings' bid for a Super League franchise under new chairman Steve O'Connor.

He will specifically be responsible for player recruitment, player welfare and the establishment of community initiatives when he takes on his new job on January 2.

"There's obviously a tremendous amount of work to be done to transform the fortunes of Vikings and I'm thrilled at being given the chance to help," said O'Connor.

"There's a genuine excitement in the town that big things are going to happen and I'm delighted to be able to be a part of it."

Steve O'Connor said: "At the outset I made it clear we would transform this club by introducing experienced business professionals to work alongside talented and successful people from the world of rugby league.

"Terry O'Connor is ideally placed to help us achieve our goals of securing the long-term future of this club and mounting a successful campaign to win one of the coveted Super League licences."

Meanwhile, as expected, Stankevitch, 28, has re-joined Widnes as assistant to head coach Steve McCormack.

The former St Helens forward joined Widnes as a player in 2004 and, after being forced to retire because of a persistent arm injury, took up a role as senior academy coach.

He left the Vikings in June 2007 to become head coach at Doncaster but quit last month, citing personal problems, and was replaced by Ellery Hanley. Sporting Life

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HALBRO LANCASHIRE COUNTY CUP FINAL

BANK QUAY BULLS 23 defeated ASHTON BEARS 6

Mark Norris Construction Ltd North West Counties League Premier Division side Bank Quay Bulls of Warrington overcame gallant Division One team Ashton Bears of Wigan by four tries to one to win the HALBRO Lancashire County Cup at a wet Liverpool St Helens RUFC in front of a healthy post Christmas crowd.

The architect and match winner was Bulls stand off John Braddish who
contributed with a try, three goals and a drop goal and his outstanding display saw him win the inaugural Mike Gregory Trophy.

After a tight opening the Bulls opened the scoring on 15 minutes following a superb break by fullback Ryan Fieldhouse after his side had run the ball. He drew the cover before passing inside to second row forward Niel Smith who crashed over for a converted try.

On their next set the Bulls opened up the Bears defence again only for Fieldhouse to knock on with a clear field ahead of him. The Bears made him pay for the mistake on 19 minutes following a penalty when scrum half Dave Picton flicked an inside pass to winger Andrew Bailey to score and fullback Matthew Melling who was outstanding both in attack and defence added the extras.

The score remained at six all with both sides playing good football
considering the conditions until the 30th minute when Fieldhouse this time made no mistake to go in for a converted try.

The Bulls doubled their lead three minutes into the second half after
being given a penalty ten meters from the try line on the last tackle.

From that the ball was moved out to Braddish who saw a chink in the Bears defence to go through the gap to score and added his third conversion for good measure.

The Bulls began to march forward building the pressure on the Bears and Braddish dropped a goal from ten meters after 48 minutes to make it 19-6.

The Wigan side rallied and had two half chances but winger Steven Naylor couldn't gather the passes on 59 and 66 minutes.

The Bulls wrapped up the game five minutes from time to dispel any
comeback when skipper Phil Braddish scored. He took the ball on the crash just inside his own half and went though Mellings brave tackle, his only blemish of the game to go 50 meters and finish it off with a 'classic' swallow dive. Surprisingly older brother John missed the conversion.

It didn't matter and the Warrington side deservedly won the Cup for the second time in four years, for the Bears they can concentrate on their promotion push to join the Bulls next season in the top division.

BANK QUAY BULLS
1.Ryan Fieldhouse, 2. Steve Caley, 3. Lee Smith, 4. Lee Caldwell, 5.
Chris Ross, 6. John Braddish, 7. Anthony Braide, 8. Jamie Peasnall, 9. Jason Garraty, 10. Phil Braddish, 11. Niel Smith, 12. Niel Bray, 13. John Walker. Subs: 14. Jimmy Astbury, 15. Ste Bird, 16. Dale Catterall, 17. Craig Millington.

Tries: Smith, Fieldhouse, J. Braddish, P. Braddish
Goals: J. Braddish 3/4
DG: J. Braddish

ASHTON BEARS
1. Matthew Melling, 2. Steven Naylor, 3. Scott Hughes, 4. Steven Smith, 5. Andrew Bailey, 6. Stuart Millington, 7. Dave Picton, 8. Kieron Spruce, 9. Alex Peet, 10. John Winder, 11. Niel Ireland, 12. David Hughes, 13. Peter Shaw. Subs: 14. Daniel Parkinson, 15. Joseph Burrows, 16. Paul Wilde, 17. Phillip Collier.
Tries: Bailey
Goals: Melling

Referee: Mark Seddon

The game was videoed and copies of the game can be purchased from Alpha Photography of Milnrow who can be contacted by telephone on 01706 642446/07973 735570 or email andrew.h52@...  BARLA

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BULLS PROMOTE PART-TIMER
Bradford have promoted part-time player Richard Johnson to their Super League squad for 2008.
NEW-LOOK SCULTHORPE IMPRESSES KEAR
John Kear is tipping a slimmed-down Danny Sculthorpe to take Super League by storm in 2008.
WILDCATS STUN REIGNING CHAMPIONS
A review of the Boxing Day friendly action involving Super League clubs.
LEEDS BOSS PLEASED DESPITE DEFEAT
Post-match reaction to Wakefield's 26-18 victory over Leeds.
VIKINGS SIGN GALLAGHER
Widnes Vikings have signed back-row forward Tommy Gallagher. Read more Sporting Life

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Cowboys to relish changes
NOT since those old spaghetti westerns have a group of Cowboys suddenly looked more dangerous. The NRL has reduced interchanges from 12 to 10.
Rookies ready to rumble
ROOSTERS recruitment manager Peter O'Sullivan reckons they are getting better every year. We review the best rookies coming for season 2008.
Souths' US game a hit
ALL preferred seating for the Rabbitohs game against Super League champions Leeds in Florida, have sold out more than a month before the game.
Billy will put the boot in
AS MELBOURNE Storm chase back-to-back NRL titles, fullback Billy Slater is working on introducing a kicking game to his lethal attacking arsenal next year.
Harris' Cowboys homecoming
BEN Harris hopes to shrug off the pressure replacing club legend Paul Bowman and make the No.4 North Queensland Cowboys jumper his own in '08.
As predictable as taxes
THE only thing more predictable than footballers behaving badly was that Melbourne Storm would win the 2007 NRL premiership. Read more Daily Telegraph

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Richard Johnson has been awarded the Bulls number 27 shirt - Bradford Bulls have today announced that Centre Richard Johnson has been awarded the Number 27 shirt for next season.

Johnson, from Oldham, has been with the club for the last six ears and his elevation to the First Team Squad is seen as reward for the effort he has shown throughout his time at the Grattan Stadium. He has yet to make a First Team appearance for the club but is highly regarded by the Coaching staff. He Captained the Bulls Senior Academy side last season and recently signed a one year extension to his contract.

Commenting today Bulls Coach Steve McNamara said, " Due to his work commitment Richard is unable to become a full time professional but he has is very much in our plans for next season and he will be challenging for a place in the side.

" His Squad Number is just reward for the sterling effort he put in last year and the hard work he has shown so far in pre season training. Richard has a good turn of pace, is very strong and has a great work ethic and I am delighted to have given him the Number 27 shirt for next season." Bradford Online

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Cronulla Caringbah Inaugural Opens & 20's Sevens Tournament  - You are invited to participate in Cronulla Caringbah JRLFC inaugural Open's and Under 20's Sevens Tournament on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th of February 2008.

The competition will be held at Endeavour 2 & 3 fields on Captain Cook Drive, the grand finals will be played at Toyota Stadium.

The rules of the competition are the same as the World Sevens, which will be forwarded to you along with the code of conduct and all other documentation once your club nominates to participate.

The cost to enter a team in the Tournament's will be $550.00 including GST.

Prize money for the tournament will be as follows

1st Prize $3500
2nd Prize $1500
3rd Prize $550
4th Prize $550

There is only 30 teams in each tournament and spots are filling fast. If your club wishes to enter a team, please forward your application to us ASAP.

Please note each team will only be able to register 12 players for the tournament using 11 players per game.

Once we receive your application, you will then be forwarded all rules and information and an invoice for your team that will be required to be returned within 7 days to ensure your teams spot in the tournament.

We look forward to hosting this tournament and look forward to your clubs participation.

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Cronulla Caringbah Rugby League Sevens Tournament 2008 - Team Participation Agreement.

Please complete all sections of this form: OPEN OR 20'S

Club Name: ________________________________________________

Team Name: ________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________

Contact: __________________________

Phone: ____________________

E-mail: _____________________________

Fax: ____________________

I wish to book a team place in the 2008 Cronulla Caringbah Rugby League Sevens Tournament and agree to the REGISTRATION FEE OF $550.00

I agree to accept any terms and conditions outlined in the Tournament Rules and Regulations and the Code of Conduct information sheets accompanying this registration form along with any further conditions that may be set down by the tournament organisers (ie. Cronulla Caringbah Rugby League Club)

Attached is a cheque for $550.00 made payable to Cronulla Caringbah Junior Rugby League Football Club.

Name: ________________________

Signature: ____________________

Date: ______________________

Position: _________________________

A COMPLETED COPY OF THIS FORM AND FULL PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY 31ST JANUARY 2008 IN ORDER FOR YOUR CLUB'S APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED.

Contact Peter on 0413 511 090 or
Email: Peter at peter.malone@... or
Fax: to 9896 6866

Please note: A receipt will be issued upon payment and all Team Participation Agreement forms and registration fee should be posted to:

Attention: Peter Malone
P.O. Box 305,
PENDLE HILL NSW 2145

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2008 Telstra Premiership experimental rule amendments  - The 2008 Telstra Premiership will include two experimental rule amendments to the laws of the game as well as changes to the interpretation used by referees in six key areas.

The most significant will be a reduction in the number of interchanges from 12 interchanges per game (using a maximum four replacement players) to 10 per game (using a maximum of four replacement players) and the confirmation of measures to combat 'contact with the head or neck' by tacklers - often referred to as grapple tackles.

Approval from the RLIF Executive members to allow the NRL to implement two experimental rule changes was received on Christmas eve and concluded a rule revue process which canvassed the views of coaches, players (both current and former), referees, Chief Executives, Club Chairman and the Boards of the NRL and ARL.

Interpretation changes within the Telstra Premiership do not require RLIF approval.

THE APPROVED EXPERIMENTAL AMENDMENTS TO THE LAWS OF THE GAME ARE:

1. The number of interchanges to be reduced from 12 to 10 per game

2. Ball stripping permitted if the ball-carrier is in the act of attempting to ground the ball for a try

APPROVED REFEREEING INTERPRETATION AMENDMENTS ARE:

Grapple Tackle/Wrestling/Dominant Tackle:

* 'Grapple' tackles should be eliminated from the game

* A tackler making any accidental/incidental contact with head or neck will be required to immediately release contact from that area

* Any prolonged contact with head or neck is to be penalised and in more severe cases charged by Judiciary

* In tackles where a player uses his body weight to bend and exert pressure on another players head/neck (i.e. 'The Crusher'), these tackles are to be treated by the Judiciary as "very serious" incidents and graded accordingly

* Referees must be consistent and enforce throughout the entire season

* Less tolerance will be shown by referees when players are held in upright tackles as a method of slowing the play-the-ball

* Legs of players held in upright tackles should not be lifted or targeted

Balance between attack & defence/Speed of the game
* Referees are to require scrums to bind better with props on the 'feeding- side' to have outside leg forward with half-back feeding the ball into the tunnel. This should help to minimise forwards breaking early and play breaking down at scrum base

* Referees are to allow quick 20 metre restarts once officials are in position regardless of whether defence is ready or not.

Use of Video Technology
* Referees to be permitted to ask video ref to check on ball stripping if unsure (to be confirmed subject to NRL reaching agreement with broadcasters on a suitable process so the game is not unnecessarily delayed)

Protecting Kickers
* It is the responsibility of the tackler or tacklers not to make dangerous contact with kickers (i.e. if a tackler decides to target a kicker and this results in any dangerous contact the tackler must face the consequences)

* One indicator of this would be a defender who leaves the ground when attempting a tackle or charge down resulting in contact with the kicker after the ball has been kicked

Time Wasting
Clubs will be advised of a standard acceptable time for goal line restarts and if this time is exceeded the referee will warn once and then award a penalty kick 10 metres out if the warning is ignored. The video referee will monitor the time and advise the referee accordingly

Players getting head start on 10 metres at ruck
* Referees to be more vigilant. NRL

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RLCM Coachtalk Extract

Today's coaching extract is from an article on 'Completion Rates' it appeared in RLCM Book 18

"What is completion?" Coach Brian Smith asks.

"If you get to the last play and put up a poor bomb, have you completed the set?

"If you kick the ball dead in goal and the opposition gets a restart from the 20-metre line, have you completed your set?"

"You're better off making an eighty metre break and making an error on the third tackle than completing a set sometimes," Smith said.

As Smith indicates, there are alternative ways to successfully complete a `set of six' than just kicking the ball on the 5th tackle.

Running the ball on the 5th can be a good option for sides with strike power out wide. Also, as Brisbane and Melbourne demonstrate, turning the ball over in a corner without scoring can sometimes be more effective than kicking.

"This (turning the ball over in a corner) is the second best option to kicking the ball in goal and hoping for a restart from a goal line drop out," Chris Anderson said.

Does a statistician record a `set of tackles' that finished similar to this as an uncompleted set......

ONE SMALL EXTRACT from the feature article 'Completion Rates' it appeared in RLCM Book 18