Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) boss Clint Newton has offered a rare insight into the funding model of the NRL, while also challenging ‘misconceptions’ around the role of the RLPA.
Speaking on the Kenty Prime Time podcast, Newton pushed back strongly on suggestions NRL players are gouging funds from grassroots clubs and programs, while at the same time acknowledging this is the perception for many fans.
“You’re right, there is a perception that players have taken money from grass roots,” Newton told veteran sports journalist Paul Kent.
“But let me be clear, in the last collective bargaining agreement we never touched grassroots funding, never once in any of our proposals.”
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Newton went on to reveal exactly how much of the current NRL funding pie ends up in the pockets of players.
“Right now for every $100, the players’ share is $43.50,” he said.
“Around 78 percent of that money goes to player salaries, then there’s the injury hardship fund, the past player medical support fund, wellbeing and education programs, retirement accounts, rep payments and RLPA payments.”
‘That’s not our job’
“We (RLPA) want to be transparent with the fans,” Newton continued.
“We are not going to put forward a position where everyone agrees with us all the time, that’s not our job.
“Our job is making sure we strike a balance between advancing the interests of the players and protecting their rights, as well as what is in the best interests of the game of rugby league.”
“It isn’t just going after big percentage shares (of money) where we won’t give a sh*t about anyone else bar the players.
“Ultimately I’m a fan of the game too, my intentions are pure,” Newton added, himself a veteran of 173 NRL games for the Knights, Storm and Panthers.
“Do I want rugby league to be the best game in this hemisphere and, pound for pound, in the world? Absolutely.
“My job is to help make sure we advance the game without eroding the rights of players—and ensuring they are properly protected in what is the most brutal game in the world.”