From the Australian, wasn't sure where to post. Just a FYI post. Mods can move or delete, I won't get upset.
The NRL is on the verge of appointing Nine newspaper journalist Michael Chammas as their general manager of football at the
PNG Chiefs.
This masthead understands that Chammas has been earmarked to take charge of the Chiefs’ football operations after being hand-picked by ARL Commission chair Peter V’landys to become a key player at the fledgling franchise.
The Chiefs, who recently announced that former Digicel PNG boss Lorna McPherson would be their chief executive, are due to enter the NRL in 2028.
Sydney Morning Herald reporter Michael Chammas.
The head of football role will be one of the most significant appointments given the team is starting from scratch. However, Chammas will take charge of PNG’s football operations armed with one of the most extensive contact books in the game.
The news breaker has reported on some of the biggest stories in rugby league over the past decade, earning a growing reputation as a media heavy hitter through his work with the Sydney Morning Herald, Nine News and 100% Footy.
He now faces an even more significant challenge in ensuring the Chiefs hit the ground running as they prepare to enter the NRL in 2028.
The Chiefs are yet to sign a player or coach, but they will head to market armed with tax-free dollars after the NRL struck an historic agreement with the federal government allowing for players to effectively double their income.
The PNG Chiefs are due to enter the NRL competition in 2028. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images
Players aside, the most significant appointment for the chiefs will be their inaugural head coach. That decision will be made by the AFL Commission as they wade through a list of candidates that include the likes of Arthur and Jason Demetriou.
Seven-time premiership winner Wayne Bennett has also been mooted as a prospective PNG coach, although the dream target would undoubtedly be Penrith mentor Ivan Cleary.
It is believed Panthers half Nathan Cleary is also on PNG’s wish-list as they look to make a big splash in the player market.
The Chiefs have had a rocky start to their existence.
Chief executive Andrew Hill quit to take over the role of Panthers Group CEO, while influential board member Wapu Sonk stood down amid corruption allegations, which he vehemently denies.
Hail to the Chiefs: PNG NRL team name revealed
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Last month, inaugural chair
Ray Dib revealed he was forced out of his role with the 19th expansion side following an uneasy relationship with NRL powerbrokers.
Last year, it is understood Chammas was locked in talks over joining Perth as head of football when it looked like former Parramatta coach Brad Arthur would be appointed coach.
When Arthur was overlooked, the move went cold.
However, it is understood NRL powerbrokers have been intent on bringing Chammas into the tent to play a role in the game’s future.
The Perth Bears appointed former media identity Anthony De Ceglie (right) as their inaugural CEO. Pictured here with NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo and coach Mal Meninga. Picture: Getty Images
Chammas would be the
second media personality to take on a role with an expansion side after the NRL appointed former Channel 7 boss
Anthony De Ceglie chief executive of the Perth Bears.
In May last year, Chammas was involved in a fiery exchange with Canterbury general manager of football, Phil Gould, over the Bulldogs’ signing of former Wests Tigers prodigy Lachlan Galvin.
Now, the Nine stablemates could come head to head as opposing football department bosses.
More to come …
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