Welcome to the February CEO Update as we eagerly anticipate round one and the start of the 2023 NRL season.
Again, we offer a report on business conducted across the various departments over the past month, look ahead to some of the upcoming highlights and preview the kick-off to what promises to be an exciting season to come.
After a long and physically demanding pre-season the NRL team is ready for Souths and the opening game and heading into that match with solid trial match form, there is a great deal of positivity for what lies ahead. The junior representative and Harvey Norman Women’s teams have had a head start and are now a month into their seasons, with Darren Mooney in his football report to detail their progress over the first four rounds and to keep us abreast of the latest football department news.
Sharks at Kareela has managed to navigate the busy Christmas-New Year period and moving into another year has a range of exciting offers and specials for all to enjoy and as we continue to move closer to opening the doors of our new Leagues Club in Woolooware, we couldn’t be happier to have a facility such as Kareela as our second home. We certainly look forward to having two licensed premises to service our Members and their guests in the not too distant future.
As we put the finishing touches on PointsBet Stadium in readiness for Saturday night’s match, the commercial and membership department have turned their attention to ensuring game day is enjoyable for our sponsors, corporate partners and members.
Corporate hospitality has sold out for 2023, however we still have limited sponsor opportunities available, while I again encourage those who are yet to do so, to secure your Sharks membership now to ensure entry to home games during the upcoming NRL season.
And if you haven’t already, visit our merchandise outlet, either on line or by dropping by the store at Sharks at Kareela and show your colours this year, with an exciting new line of 2023 Classic Sportswear Sharks gear now available.
In addition, those following our website or local media outlets will be aware that Sharks Have Heart have been extremely active during January and February in continuing their outstanding work engaging with the community while launching a number of exciting projects and programs.
While announced just last weekend, we are proud to be partnering with the Cowboys in honouring the memory of former Sharks player and Premiership winning coach Paul Green who sadly passed away last year. CLICK HERE to read more about the Paul Green Medal and in relation to the efforts the two teams will be making to raise awareness around the issue of brain injury, CTE and mental illness.
So please take the time to read this month’s CEO Update, as we keep you abreast off all the latest happenings.
Again, I encourage you to stay tuned to our media channels for Sharks news and member updates, thanks for your commitment and support and we hope to see you this weekend at PointsBet Stadium for the big match with Souths on Saturday.
Dino Mezzatesta
CEO
The excitement is building with only a few weeks until the kick off to the NRL Season, with Sharks at Kareela hard at work in preparing our venue to be the ideal place to support the Sharks in 2023.
Although the first choice might be to get amongst the atmosphere of a PointsBet Stadium crowd on game day, for those who might prefer to take in the action indoors, Sharks at Kareela is ready to welcome you this week and for all Sharks game this season.
For Sharks away games, games are ‘live and loud’ on the big screen, where you can watch the games alongside an enthusiastic crowd of fellow Sharks supporters. The Sharks at Kareela experience is then made even better with our Sharks game day specials, this year featuring a Footlong Footy Hot Dog and $6 VB Schooners, If not at the game itself, where else would you rather be!
Also, in joining in the spirit of the new NRL season, Sharks at Kareela is conducting a footy tipping competition, with entry free and cash prizes to be won for our top 3 finishers. Visit the club reception before the season gets underway to enter and be a part of the fun.
Thanks to those who chose Sharks at Kareela on Valentines Day and took advantage of the member specials on offer, and as indicated previously, the Cove Bar and Grill is set to launch its new menu in the coming days. Featuring popular club classics, the new menu also offers a range of delicious dishes for you to enjoy.
During March, Members will also have the chance to win their share of $2,500 in Money Mahem, a new cash giveaway which will run throughout the month. Make sure to visit the Club on Thursday nights from 7pm for your chance to win.
In further news relating to our licensed clubs, construction of the Woolooware Town Centre and refurbished Sharks Leagues Club continues as we work towards a late 2023 completion. We look forward to opening the doors to our new state-of-the-art leagues club and in tandem with Sharks at Kareela, to having two licensed premises in in the Sutherland Shire to service and entertain our members and guests.
And as I spend more time involved in planning and preparations for the Woolooware club opening, I introduce Nathan Bougoukas, who many of you would already know as a Duty Manager at Kareela, who will now manage the Sharks at Kareela site moving forward.
I look forward to seeing you all around the Club.
Excitement is building and the countdown is on to our first home game, with the playing surface looking pristine and the finishing touches being put on our corporate hospitality facilities at PointsBet Stadium.
While on the subject, our hospitality offerings are sold out for the entire 2023 season, however with the new Sharks Leagues Club scheduled to be completed at the end of the year, expressions of interest for 2024 now being taken. We will have increased offerings next season, with an array of additional hospitality options available.
The main attraction this week will obviously be when the Sharks tackle Souths in the big NRL matchup, however we also have plenty of activity planned around the game, with those in attendance encouraged to keep an eye out for a special Aramex half time activation.
Looking back at the month just gone, our major event from a commercial perspective saw us conduct a successful season launch at Wanda Surf Club. Emceed by Channel 9 personality Danica Mason and attended by all our major partners, the playing group was presented to the crowd and the coach and CEO both addressed the room in what was an enjoyable evening had by all.
Also, during February, reserved seats, general admission and corporate hospitality tickets went on sale for our regional home game in Coffs Harbour against the Knights on May 20. It shapes as another outstanding weekend on the beautiful NSW North coast and with tickets selling fast, get in early to avoid disappointment. GA and hospitality tickets remain available, CLICK HERE to purchase or for more information.
Finally, for businesses, brands or organisations looking to partner up with the Sharks, the back of shorts apparel property is still available. Those interested can contact our commercial department.
Events and announcements have taken place during February, with planning continuing ahead of a huge year for Sharks Have Heart in 2023.
A few weeks ago, Ronaldo Mulitalo, Sione Katoa and Siosifa Talakai had a wonderful time at the Come & Try NRL Wheelchair event. Amongst the messages to come from the afternoon at the Engadine Leisure Centre was the inclusivity offered by the Wheelchair game and the importance of making the game of rugby league accessible to all. NRL Wheelchair are still recruiting volunteers and players for 2023. CLICK HERE for more information or to see our Sharks website coverage of the Come and Try event.
Also, during February it was team photo day for the NRL squad. Joining the players and coaches, in a Sharks Have Heart ‘heartfelt moment’, was a special visit from Isaac, a youngster overcoming a serious spinal injury. Meeting his idols, being a part of the team photo, Isaac had a day be will never likely forget. Check out our Sharks website article to read more - CLICK HERE
Announced last week, Sharks Have Heart have chosen a stellar line up for our From the Heart giving partners program for 2023. Chosen by a panel of former and current players, along with Sharks board and management, it is a diverse group and one we look forward to working with this season. Meet the new partners here – CLICK HERE
While making an early play for this year’s Ken Stephen Medal nomination is Toby Rudolf. A vital player on the field and a big personality off it, Toby is shaving his head (and potentially full body!) in support of the Leukaemia Foundation at their annual World Greatest Shave. Get behind him Sharks Fans and donate now – CLICK HERE
We are pleased to announce we have surpassed 13,500 Black, White & Blue Members in 2023 and we thank all who have joined us this year!
For those without memberships, casual tickets for all matches this season are now on sale, including for our home game in Coffs Harbour. The suggestion would be don’t delay, with the limited capacity at PointsBet Stadium and as a result of the interest around the team and the upcoming season, we expect some sell outs again in 2023. The same would apply to Members who hold packages that require match entry redemption via a personalised code to secure their tickets. Again, get in fast to avoid disappointment.
Members will soon be sent an exclusive invitation to a view Captain’s Run event. Keep an eye on your emails and make sure your details up to date so as you receive all information and correspondence. You can update your details at any time by logging in here – CLICK HERE.
A reminder, that you can still choose your member pack, even if you have been sent your member card. If you have not chosen your pack, please CLICK HERE.
We are also continually updating our member guides. We encourage you to regularly visit the member information page to ensure you get the most out of your membership. Our Membership Team is available at every home game to help you if experiencing issues gaining entry. You can also send your member card to family and friends as an EzyTicket by following our guide – CLICK HERE.
If you are yet to join up as a Member for 2023, GA Memberships guarantee your spot on the hill and alongside your mates for every PointsBet Stadium game, starting from only $220. Or consider joining the family, with packages from just $335.
Thanks again to all those who have joined us in the Black, White & Blue for 2023.
With round one fast approaching, the immediate focus has been making sure the Sharks merchandise outlets at PointsBet Stadium are stocked and ready go ahead of the big game on Saturday night.
Further to that and while the weather hasn’t started to cool down just yet, winter stock has arrived in time with shelves fully stocked for this weekend, with pullover Hoodies, quarter zip warm up fleece tops, track jackets, trackpants, wet weather jackets and a black on black crew top in store and also available at the merchandise outlets on Saturday. The new Classic Sportswear puffer jacket is also due to arrive soon, in time for when the winter weather hits.
Also, members and fans can look out for the Cotton On supporter winter apparel, available online and instore. A great product range at a reasonable price, it features clean and simple designs in hoodies, crew tops, tees and long sleeve tees.
And the popular retro truckers cap is now back after a few years in the wilderness.
Bac in 2023 following on from the success and popularity of the Nicho Hynes tees in 2022, is a new version now in production. The new Nicho tee will accommodate the release of the Nicho Hynes Bobblehead, with both coming soon.
For our travelling fans, the Sharks Merchandise van is locked in for our next three away games before our return to PointsBet in round five. Look for the van at CommBank when we play the Eels in round two, in Canberra for our road to trip to face the Raiders in round three and at the local derby at Netstrata Jubilee in round four.
Something of a hidden gem, the Sharks Store at Kareela continues to be the perfect place for all your Sharks merch needs. Maybe beat the queues on Saturday and drop in this week to pick up some of the latest Sharks gear before the game this weekend. Trading hours are Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 2pm. Everything that is available online is available in store at Kareela.
While following the success and substantial sales of the Heritage Jersey, we have more coming after securing additional stock. First shipment will arrive within the next month, with a larger order due in May.
Our round one team has been announced and preparations are almost complete ahead of the round one game against Souths this weekend.
We managed to score two wins in the trials, and while results aren’t necessarily important in those games, it was pleasing to see the squad playing well after a long pre-season. The boys are now keen to get the season underway and we look forward to delivering a strong performance in front of what should be a full house on Saturday.
The game this weekend will also see Oregon Kaufusi become Shark #556, with Saturday night an opportunity for the members and fans to officially welcome him to the Cronulla Club.
The team will be without Nicho Hynes, who has a minor calf issue, however we have every confidence in his replacement Braydon Trindall who in approaching 40 games played in the NRL has the ability and experience to do the job in Nicho’s absence.
Also unavailable for the opening round are Royce Hunt and Matt Ikuvalu, Kade Dykes, who sadly ruptured his ACL and will miss the entire NRL season and Jesse Colquhoun who is out for an indefinite period with a foot injury.
While on the subject of Nicho, congratulations from all at the Sharks for his Preston Campbell Medal winning performance as man of the match while playing for the Indigenous team at the All Stars game, and well done to Bradyon Trindall (Indigenous), Royce Hunt and Briton Nikora (Māori) for proudly representing their heritage in what was a spirited game of rugby league.
Special mention also to Quincy Dodd, the Indigenous team captain, and to Brooke Anderson and Zali Fay (Māori) from our Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership team for their participation in the Women’s All Stars match.
In signing news, this week we finalised Jesse Ramien’s new contract and are extremely pleased he has extended his time with us and committed his playing future to the Sharks for a further three years. (CLICK HERE to read more on Jesse’s signing)
Earlier this month we were also able to boost our depth in signing utility Daniel Atkinson from the Sunshine Coast Falcons and young prop Max Bradbury from the Knights. Welcome to both and if early indications are anything to go by, the pair will be valuable additions to our club for the 2023 season.
In other football news, our male junior representative teams have played four rounds of their respective competitions, with mixed results. The Matthews Cup Sharks are sitting in third position on the ladder after three wins and one loss, while the SG Ball team, after a couple of disappointing losses, found some form last weekend with a strong victory against the Storm. The two Sharks teams play Souths this Sunday.
Similarly, the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership and Tarsha Gale Sharks are four games into their seasons and after slow starts, now need some wins over the back half of the year to push for Finals berths. Both have the ability and talent to bounce back and we look forward to that being the case in their round five matches on Saturday.
And this week while the NRL season gets underway, the Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup competitions also kick off. We wish our under-21 Flegg boys, and our NSW Cup partner club the Newtown Jets, the best of luck in their round one matches against Souths and success for the season ahead.
