Darren Smith and the East Coast Tigers ?

[imported_Mailman]

Up here in Brisbane, I have heard one or two whispers regarding the East Cost Tigers.
Apparently, the Tigers haveagreed to terms with a QldState of Origin player for next season. I am told that player is Darren Smith, who actually began his career with Easts before moving to Sydney to play with Canterbury.

The deal is rumoured to be part of a plan by the cashed up Brisbane club to apply for an NRL liscence for season 2002 or 2003. If Easts Brisbane were to be admitted into the NRL competition, it would alleviate the NRL's problem of having a bye in the premiership, now that Souths are back. It would also satisfy many people's opinion that the NRL needs another team in south-east Queensland.

Easts changed their name to the East Coast Tigers at the start of the 2001 season in an attempt to gain more sponsorship and give the club a more professional image should it be considered for an NRL liscence in the future. In that regard, the name change has probably been a good move.

 

[Hass]

Well whoever it is, SE QLD needs another team in First Grade Rugby League. If it's achieved via the East Coast Tigers then good luck to them.

Cheers.

 

[G@v]

Agreed, the NRLwould look better witha 16 team comp,with another team in the Brisbane - SE Queensland region. The Broncos should realise that a local derby would be in their best interests. The East Coast Tigers may need a change of name however!

 

[legend]

I thought Redcliffe was going to be the club to apply for admission into the NRL? If there are two strongclubs in Brisbane would they consider pooling their money to create one superclub and draw the players from both clubs. If a second team is admitted where would they play as Suncorp is being refurbished and the Gabba is home to the Lions. Would Carrara be a possibility?

 

[imported_Bigbopper]

This is good news if it turns out to be true because we will have a much better balanced competition. Can't have two 'Tigers' in the competition though.
Cheers
Bigbopper

 

[imported_Mailman]

I agree, Redcliffe would be an ideal club to apply for NRL status. However, the club seems reluctant to do so. Around 1995, they were very keen on the move, but it seems at present, they feel as though they have too much to lose.

In terms of location and fan base, the Dolphins would be perfect for a second Brisbane team. Unfortunately, I don't see it happening in the near future.

As far as a superclub goes, it wouldn't happen. Both Easts and Redcliffe are proud clubs with a lot of history, and though it has been done (unsuccessfully) in the NRL, there is next to no chance of it happening. Both clubs are extremely cashed-up already. They probably wouldn't need to merge if they did apply for NRL status.

Regarding the playing location of this club, I think Cararra probably would be a feasible option, at least until the redevolpment of Lang Park is complete. Maybe they could share the Gabba with the Lions, which would probably be the best option, but I don't know if that is possible.

Just on the East Coast Tigers, I can't remember if I read it or heard it, but John Lang is tipped to be the new coach of the Tigers for season 2002.