Brendan Lines

November 5, 2015

SANRL – Rugby League

Above: Adam Jaworski

Former President of the Henley Raiders Rugby League Club Adam Jaworski, has resigned from his appointment on the newly formed Western Districts Rugby League Club Committee.

The resignation comes as both Henley and Woodville Rugby League clubs were dissolved two weeks ago at a turbulent meeting conducted at NRL SA headquarters.

The meeting saw the 2015 Grand Finalists identity wiped out. Under NRL SA General Manager Ken Kennedy’s plan to reform the eight team competition down to a sustainable four team competition.

Mr Kennedy said in a statement issued by NRL SA “With the formation of the Western District club, the clubs that made up the western suburbs region will be able to provide greater opportunities for its players and members, and a stronger rugby league presence in the Western Suburbs of Adelaide,”

However both sides claimed inconsistencies in the information provided about the merger by the league. As some participants displayed anger towards the ruling that current players may not participate on the new committee.

Information about the ruling was issued by Mr Kennedy, as it was mandated by the NRL constitution. This caused confusion amongst some participants as they expressed the need for increased participation across the league. Given its limited share of participants amongst other sporting codes in the state.

Participants at the meeting displayed their anger towards the merger as some ‘walked out’ demonstrating their protest to the merger. However it was clear at the meeting that Mr. Kennedy and NRL SA Chairman Stuart Davis’ vision for a more sustainable competition was to go ahead.

Against popularity a new committee was appointed from both clubs existing committees. Which saw Mr. Jaworski appointed sponsorship co ordinator. Along with fellow Henley Financial Director Chris Pittman and General Committee member Theo Marsh.

Speculation surrounded the financial viability of the Western Districts merger given the Woodville clubs position. Also the fact that Woodville only fielded a reserve grade team in the 2015 season. This gave impetus to the untimely dissolution of the Henley Club.

Given his time as the President of the Henley club Mr.Jawroski oversaw the formation and rising success of the club to consecutive NRL SA Grand Finals. Along with its community inclusive ethos, Mr Jaworski also spearheaded the appointment of notable New South Wales Country Rugby League administrator Theo Marsh.

NRL SA Director Ken Kennedy said upon news of Mr. Jaworski’s resignation that “We are sad to see him go.”

The announcement was made over social media last night as Mr Jaworski said his reasons were due to family.