The license fee has nothing to do with security or protecting the clubs long term viability. That is what a bank surety would do. The NRl arent taking this $20mill and sticking it in the bank just in case they need it if the club falls over in a few years time. Where people have that idea from I dont know.
Then why did Western United have to pay $18m upfront to get into the A League ? A firm commitment that they mean business and long term security.
The licence fee represents an iron clad commitment for the long term in an area that is not heartland.
A Bank guarantee naturally requires either cash, property or other assets to secure the guarantee. If assets are minimal when we are talking about a club in a high profile sporting code, what sort of guarantee moneywise would they cover and for how long.
What does the club have in terms of cash on hand, property such as a licensed club or undeveloped residential land .Who else( high profile business) apart from Cummins is prepared to throw in loot ?
Then two guys suddenly arrive out of left field ,to be involved without letting the NRL know.It's frigging amateur hour.
I understand PVL was not keen on licensing back in 2021 , some dark stuff hit the fan now and he has reacted with an opposing view.
NRL policy is to fund clubs, development etc and purchase bricks & mortar assets to ensure long term viability for the code, not just individual clubs.Whatever licence fee is paid,I doubt it would not be sitting in a bank account earning 4% but used for assisting clubs who would face competition for players with a new club and looking at money making assets.
We had SFA assets when PVL took over ,now there are 3 hotels on their asset register.
And one more for the dummies ,I want an NRL club in Perth. LONG TERM.