NRL TEAMS - 2024 Round 4
3 days ago | LeagueUnlimited Media
He joined the club as Chief Executive in the midst of a controversy, and today he left as another continues to engulf the team he has supported for most of his life.
Steve Mortimer today quit the Bulldogs as the club continues to be troubled by sexual assault allegations against a handful of players.
Police investigations are continuing into the alleged incident, which happened during a pre-season trip to Coffs Harbour last month.
Mortimer guided the Bulldogs through the salary cap drama 18 months ago and had done a wonderful job at stabilising the club before the sex scandal erupted.
Today, he pulled the curtain down on a long association with the club.
"When I came into this position after the salary cap crisis I worked with George (Peponis) to establish an outstanding Board of Directors," Mortimer said this morning.
"I now want to congratulate George and the Board for their strong leadership, particularly during the last few days when difficult decisions had to be made that I know and believe will benefit the club in the long term.
"In my role as CEO, I have to take some of the responsibility for the events of the last few weeks. I can honestly say that I have done my best at all times in the interests of the Club and its players, and I appreciate the support that I have had from George Peponis and the Board."
Mortimer said he spoke to close friends and family before making the decision to quit as CEO, and as Director of the Board.
"The last few weeks have been traumatic and gut wrenching for all concerned, but now is the time for healing, and for all those who genuinely care about the Club to turn their attention and energy to rebuilding it and restoring the Club?s reputation for fair play and good sportsmanship," Mortimer said.
Mortimer has been visibly shaken since the sex scandal broke, and had several requests ignored by a number of players, indicating he was losing control of the club.
"The Club has one of the finest traditions in rugby league history, and it has been my pleasure and privilege to serve it, both as a player and as its CEO," Mortimer said.
"For the first time in 21 years the Club made a profit in the last financial year and its performance on the field cannot be questioned."
Bulldogs Chairman George Peponis paid tribute to Mortimer in a statement this morning.
"He is a good friend, a great footballer, and has been one of the stalwarts of the Bulldog family," Peponis said.
"Steve is one of the Bulldogs? finest. His resignation should not be seen as anything except the action of an honourable man. The Board and I accept his decision, and we all acknowledge that leadership has a price.
"Steve?s resignation will sadden many of our supporters. On their behalf I would like to acknowledge Steve?s integrity, his leadership and his honesty."
Mortimer's departure from the club follows the sacking of football manager Garry Hughes last week.
At this stage, the Bulldogs have not appointed an interim CEO.
"At this stage we have made no decision about who will act in the role, but the Board will address this matter shortly and you will be advised," Dr Peponis said.