NZRL strengthens Board

Following the NZRL?s recent discussions with its members in Wellington, the NZRL Board of Directors met on Thursday 30 November, to discuss the member?s five recommendations for co-opting to the two vacant board positions.

The NZRL Board agreed to co-opt Mr Tony Kemp and Mr Vince Weir to the board with immediate effect. These appointments will allow the board to operate at full complement through until the next scheduled NZRL elections at the end of March 2007.

Acting NZRL Chairman, Andrew Chalmers stated that ?the board was excited by the depth of those recommended for the positions and we are sure the two successful candidates will add a broader skill base and additional experience to the six strong Board?

Kemp has extensive football experience with a lengthy and successful professional career in both the UK and Australia and a Kiwi career that included 25 test caps from 1989 to 1995.

After retirement as a player he commenced a coaching career in England before moving home in 2001 as assistant coach of the Warriors before taking the helm in 2004/05 seasons.

Since leaving the Warriors Kemp has focussed on developing his business interests and also media work, joining Maori Television?s Rugby League commentary team.

Weir brings a strong business background with a degree in Accounting and International Finance taking him into banking and since 2002, senior treasury and finance roles within dairy industry giant Fonterra.

He also has a solid football pedigree having played in and captained various representative sides including NZ 7?s, NZ Colts, NZ Universities, Waikato and Auckland provincial teams. Weir maintains strong connections with the game?s grass roots via his involvement with the Ellerslie Rugby League club in Auckland.

The full Board will meet for the first time next week to discuss a number of issues and confirmation of the key programmes for 2007.