Group 4 Rugby League chairman Ray McCoy has elected to finish his term at the head of the local sporting body earlier than first thought.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The former Gunnedah club president, who has called Tamworth home for the last five years, wasn't standing for re-election at the upcoming Group 4 annual general meeting as he looks at a blossoming radio career with 88.9.
He had told a general meeting of the Group 4 clubs at Gunnedah Services Club last Sunday that he wouldn't be standing for re-election and asked the clubs to think about a possible replacement.
However, he elected to resign on Monday citing a number of reasons.
READ ALSO:
"Following a lot of thought, discussion and consideration I have made the decision to resign as Chairman of Group 4 Rugby League, effective Friday, July 17," McCoy advised by e-mail.
"In making this decision I feel that, as I had not intended to stand for re-election at the 2020 AGM, it will provide the current Group 4 Rugby League board of directors and management team with the opportunity to begin strategic preparations and planning for season 2021 and beyond, in conjunction with our clubs and NSWRL."
"After a very enjoyable and rewarding, but sometimes trying, 10 years involvement with Group 4 Rugby League, now is the time to blow the hooter and provide the opportunity to sit some new faces around the boardroom table, with fresh ideas and visions, as we continue to grow and foster rugby league in our communities, under the guidance of NSWRL."
"Thank you for your support and I wish you well for a bright and successful future as I ride off in the sunset to continue to enjoy my career in radio and country music, but more importantly, spend some quality time with my family."
McCoy's decision came after chairing last Sunday's general meeting where his opening address asked the clubs to "get together as a unit so we can go forward and also see where we are".
He wanted the clubs and the Group 4 Board to be prepared and ready to rekindle the Group 4 competition in 2021 after abandoning the 2020 season.
In particular Group 4 Rugby League, in partnership with the Group 4 Rugby League Referees Association, will be embarking on a major referee's recruitment program in preparation for season 2021.
Group 4 Referees Association representative James Brown was at Sunday's meeting and outlined their efforts to recruit referees.
"Group 4 Rugby League will be looking to hold their 2020 AGM as early as possible, so as to build a solid foundation of administrators in preparation for a blockbuster 2021," McCoy added.
"All clubs confirmed their ongoing commitment to Group 4 Rugby League and are now in a 'holding pattern' as they await details of the NSWRL's future strategic plans."
He added that whilst the NSWRL had sought 'expressions of interest' from clubs in relation to staging a stand alone under-18's competition in 2020, no further action has been taken by the state body.
North Tamworth has however investigated the chances of their under-18s playing in a Newcastle under-18s competition.
