Star Punts on WA
Recently retired RL star Brett Kimmorley says a Perth rugby league team has the potential to follow the Melbourne Storm to become a huge start-up success.
Perth is the overwhelming favourite to defeat Central Coast, Rockhampton, PNG and SE Queensland team to become the new NRL franchise in 2013. Ahead of his visit to the city for the World Sports Expo next weekend, when Kimmorley will meet young players and man the NRL site at the Perth Exhibition Centre, he revealed the factors that would make or break a WA team.
“To be successful you have to get the right business people involved running the club, with vision and a business plan, the man affectionately known as Noddy said. “New clubs get to establish their own identity and culture. When they get it right they can be very successful.”
“I think a Perth franchise is a great idea. It would not only expand the game and make it truly national, it would also help sell TV rights, with an extra live game on offer. Ypu only have to look at the former western Reds to see the great fan base.”
Kimmorley said players, particularly marquee signings, would define the success of a start up. “It’s not just about buying players who can win football games” he said. “You have to get the right players for the business. These days you can’t afford and negative press and can’t have players who damage the brand. “You’ve also got to have people who embrace the home public and fans who are allowed to be part of a team by having a say in naming the club.”
Kimmorley sad with the backing of big business in Perth and a good junior development program, the city had the potential for a big future in the NRL.
Source: Sunday Times 16/1/11
