Welcome to the Christmas-New Year edition of the CEO Update as we report on the most recent happenings through the months of November and December and look ahead to what is shaping to be an exciting and eventful 2024.
All men’s squads including the NRL, junior representative and academy teams are back at training preparing for the season ahead, as are our Tarsha Gale and Lisa Fiaola Cup women’s age group teams, with the NRLW and NSW Women’s Premiership teams to return in line with the later commencement of their competitions.
In this CEO Update some of our upcoming events and initiatives will be again detailed by senior management, who will also look back on recent happenings across all areas of the business.
Our commercial/sponsorship department, now under the leadership of Kylie Lucas who has transitioned into the role of General Manager – Partnerships & Hospitality, delivered an outstanding result last year, with a full complement of major NRL partners on board in 2024. Hospitality is also close to already sold out for the new season and commercially a positive outcome is again expected.
Merchandise sales also showed a considerable uplift in 2023 and with an exciting new range of training, playing and supporter gear either already on sale or on the way, provided by our supplier Classic Sportswear, more of the same is anticipated in the new year, while membership and game attendance, in working around our limited capacity at PointsBet Stadium, displayed the ongoing commitment of our members and fans. We hope to see you all at games and at our various events in supporting the Sharks again in 2024.
We also remain firm in our belief that our Sharks Have Heart team, now headed up by Vinh Tran, is more than comparable to the best in the NRL in terms of our community engagement and the programs and initiatives we support.
Below will be a more detailed Football Report, however I take this opportunity to mention and announce some exciting news relating to our coaching staff. Josh Hannay was the most recent to sign and recommit as an NRL assistant coach at the Sharks, his tenure now extending through until at least the end of the 2026 season, joining our head coach Craig Fitzgibbon and NRL assistants Steve Price and Daniel Holdsworth who had previously re-signed on multi-year contracts. The coaching extensions all have entered into is definitely an endorsement of the club and offers good continuity for our NRL playing group.
Since the last CEO Update the 2024 NRL Draw has been released and we are off to NZ for a round one clash with the Warriors, then we have certainly marked our calendar for our first home game in round two against the Bulldogs at PointsBet Stadium. The ‘sold out’ sign was required on six of our 10 home games in 2023, so be sure to secure your membership to avoid disappointment and to guarantee entry into not only the Bulldogs game, but for our other home matches next year.
To see the full Sharks season schedules, CLICK HERE for NRL and CLICK HERE for NRLW, with the men's draw including our regional match which is against the Titans in Coffs Harbour on a Friday night in July. Both teams love the support they receive and I have no doubt it lifts them to perform at higher levels, so please join us at as many games as possible, either here at home or on the road.
Last but not least, I encourage all Members and fans to take the opportunity to visit Sharks at Kareela during the summer months and to enjoy the first-class service and facilities offered.
While Sharks at Kareela remains open for business, excepting Christmas Day, the football office will close from Friday, December 22, reopening Monday, January 8, however as always, keep an eye on Sharks media channels for any off-season news and member updates.
On behalf of the Sharks Board, Management and staff, and from the players across all teams and grades, wishing you a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and safe holiday period.
Woolooware Bay – Sharks Leagues Club – 94 Cronulla Street
As you will have noticed, the planned opening of Woolooware Bay retail precinct has now been delayed until the new year for anchor tenants Woolworths, Aldi and Dan Murphys.
Similarly, we continue to work through the challenges relating to the construction and opening of our new Sharks Leagues Club at Woolooware. For us nothing has changed since our Members Information Night, held at Sharks at Kareela in November, where we explained what has taken place throughout the process, from the initial agreements to the current situation as to a potential completion date.
In his recent Chaiman’s Address, Steve Mace detailed the development timeline and further information as to the Leagues Club refurbishment. If you missed it, please CLICK HERE to see the Final Quarter Chairman’s Address as it appeared on our website.
As for 94 Cronulla Street, we continue to offer the building for lease and we have had a number of positive site visits and discussions with interested businesses. We hope to secure a long-term tenant in the very near future and will keep members updated as we progress on this front.
Dino Mezzatesta
Sharks CEO
The festive season is upon us and it’s a vibrant time of the year at Sharks at Kareela with plenty of events, activities and member activations to enjoy and look forward to.
If you haven’t already, celebrate Christmas and the New Year with a Summer Special Cocktail, with the Pimms Spritz or Apple Martini just $10. There is also something for the young ones, with our new Kids School Holiday Special sure to be popular. It includes a children’s meal, soft drink, ice-cream and entry to Kids Club for just $20, Thursday to Sunday nights, throughout the school holidays.
Also, during December and January take advantage of our Member Specials, featuring a mouth-watering prawn and crab roll smothered in mornay sauce and served with chips, and pair it with a beverage, maybe a schooner of our new Great Northern Ginger Beer or a glass of Garfish Pinot Grigio.
Book your next function at Sharks at Kareela. The best value function and event venue in the Sutherland Shire, offering contemporary rooms overlooking the Kareela golf course, we specialise in wedding receptions, corporate events, christenings, milestone birthdays and Christmas parties. Contact our experienced events team who can help create a memorable event.
While for the golfers, the course is in great shape, and with 18 holes of twilight golf for just $20 on weekdays or $25 on weekends, now is the perfect time for a casual round with friends. Call the pro shop on 9521 6279 to book a tee time.
I wish all our Members a very Merry Christmas and a happy, safe and prosperous New Year.
Heading into the Christmas-New Year period the Commercial department has held meetings with our major partners to plan for the 2024 season and ensure our partnership plans will assist our partners marketing objectives. The meetings also discussed how our partners can add to the game day experience in regard to Member offers and benefits. As in 2023, there will be many sponsor promotions and VIP experience opportunities next season, exclusive to members only. Be sure to become a Member so you don’t miss out on all the fun.
In new business being negotiated, we have been in discussions with several respected brands and businesses in relation to our available commercial assets, including that of Community Partner, the remaining back of NRL shorts apparel properties and in relation to signage and other minor partnerships. All discussions have been positive and we hope to be making some exciting announcements in the New Year.
Recently we were also able to confirm the retention of our Junior Rep and Academy sponsors for the 2024 season and were proud to announce that John Ryan Freight Management, SBA Attachments, Minespec Parts and Shore Hire return as apparel partners.
CLICK HERE for more on the Junior Rep sponsor announcement.
Thank you to the partners who joined us at our recent Members Xmas Party. Aramex were in attendance with lots of giveaways, along with Zambrero, offering an opportunity to win Burritos for a year! Minespec Parts kindly donated a signed NRLW jersey, claimed by an excited young fan, also providing some fun giveaways. Thank you to our valued partners who always go above and beyond in giving back to our Members.
Our Platinum Major Partner Aramex provided a very special Christmas Delivery to three lucky members and their families. Paul Gallen and an Aramex Courier driver surprised each family at their home with a $500 voucher for Christmas. We hope this provided some relief at this time of year. You can watch the great video content of these special deliveries on the Sharks social channels. Thanks, Aramex, for always delivering for our members.
In the area of game day hospitality, sales and renewals have exceeded our expectations, with all private suites sold and the marquee selling fast. We look forward to once again hosting our valued corporate hospitality partners again in 2024. Many of these partners have been supporting the club for many years and we are grateful for their support.
On behalf of our Corporate Team, myself, John Day, Carly Fagerstrom and Toby Learmont, we wish all of our partners and members a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.
Thank you to all Members who have ‘Joined The Hunt for 2024’.
We have now surpassed 10,000 Members and reserved seats for the season are selling fast. CLICK HERE to view the few remaining seats still available.
It was great to see so many at the Member Christmas Party. Sweltering conditions couldn't melt the enthusiasm with over 400 Members celebrating the festive season alongside the NRL squad. CLICK HERE to view the photo gallery.
Details are still being finalised regarding a spectacular Member’s 2024 Events Calendar. Please keep an eye out on your weekly Member email for further information and ‘save the dates’.
Sharks fans yet to ‘Join The Hunt for 2024’ are reminded that seated or GA Memberships guarantee your spot in the stands or on the hill, alongside your mates or family for every PointsBet Stadium game from only $250 for adults. Or consider joining the family, with packages from just $475. See over 33 games of footy in 2024, with full season memberships including entry to at least 23 PointsBet Stadium games (10 NRL, 8 Jersey Flegg, 4 NRLW and 1 NSW Cup), in addition to 10 Newtown Jets matches at Henson Park, along with yet to be confirmed Harvey Norman Women’s matches.
With six of 10 PointsBet Stadium sell-outs in 2023 and the prospect of similar interest and more to come in 2024, becoming a Member is your only way to guarantee access to home games next season.
Part Season and Flexi Members are also reminded that they will be able to use their redemption codes to redeem tickets through Ticketek for their designated matches from February 12, when tickets go on sale to Members for the 2024 season.
Thanks again to all who have become Members for the 2024 season. We truly value your support both on and off the field.
Have a very Merry Christmas and holiday period and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year.
Whilst the NRL squad have been toiling away on the training paddock across November and December it has also been a busy period for Sharks Have Heart. There has been plenty of activity with the players and club engaging with the local community throughout this festive period.
Up, Up Cronulla Mural Brick Sale
More than $6000 was raised for Have Heart on Sunday 26th November through the sale of 200-plus bricks that formed the iconic Paul Gallen-Andrew Ettingshausen mural. With 210 bricks snapped up by supporters, $2100 was initially raised for Sharks Have Heart - the amount generously matched by both the Sammut Group and builder Decode Group, taking the donation total to $6300.
Read more CLICK HERE
Adult Disability Christmas Clinic
The Mega Jaws Adult Disability Christmas Clinic, organised by Sharks Have Heart Equal Access Program Lead Emma Tonegato, brought joy to approximately 80 participants on Wednesday December 6 at PointsBet Stadium. Participants enjoyed an hour of rugby league drills followed by an hour of dancing with the Minespec Sharks Mermaids. The event featured football skills and drills led by NRL squad members Sione Katoa, Kade Dykes and Kayal Iro, with surprise appearances by Nicho Hynes, Santa and mascot Reefy. Emma emphasized the significance of fostering an inclusive environment, highlighting the positive impact on the dedicated supporters who showcased their football skills and participated in the festive atmosphere, marked by beaming smiles and laughter.
Read more CLICK HERE
'Heartfelt Moment' Gives Student A Special Work Experience
In a heartwarming 'Heartfelt Moment' orchestrated by Sharks Have Heart, local Year 10 student and devoted Sharks fan, Mitchell Albert, experienced a special two-day work placement at the club. Living with muscular dystrophy, Mitchell, from De La Salle Catholic College Caringbah, received an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the football department, guided by NRLW player and Sharks Have Heart equal access program lead Emma Tonegato.
Read more CLICK HERE
Jed’s Special gift
Inspirational nine-year-old Jed Symons was the guest of honour at Sharks training last Thursday, relishing the opportunity to meet his heroes, take to the field and accept a special gift. Young Jed was born with a limb difference and uses a prosthetic left forearm. His request when designing his new one was that it was to be covered in Sharks branding. The Sharks being known as the ‘Community Club’ made the experience that little bit more special by allowing Jed to watch training and have the prosthetic delivered by NRL star Dale Finucane.
Read more CLICK HERE
Christmas Hospital Blitz
Sharks players brought presents and festive cheer to young patients at Sutherland Hospital and the Sydney Children's Hospital on Tuesday for the club's annual Christmas community blitz.
Ronaldo Mulitalo, Jesse Ramien, Jesse Colquhoun, Daniel Atkinson and Jada Taylor boosted spirits at Sutherland Hospital, while Nicho Hynes, Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton, Braydon Trindall and Emma Tonegato did the same at Randwick. Sincere thanks and appreciation to the Sharks Ladies Golf club and the Sharks Football Administration staff for the donation of the presents. Read more CLICK HERE
Deadly Choices
Indigenous Programs Coordinator – Jada Taylor is continuing her professional development and is in the process of completing her Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice. November was a busy month for program delivery with Jada presenting the Deadly Choices programs across the Sutherland Shire.
NRL squad member Niwhai Puru and NRLW star Jada Taylor featured at a Menai High School community event promoting Indigenous health and closing the gap messages on Tuesday, December 12. This event saw Indigenous students from several primary and secondary schools come together for a yarn and to listen and share stories about their culture.
One Heart
With our NRL stars back at training, we had the privilege to take them along to community events. On Wednesday, December 13, Braden Hamlin-Uele and Max Bradbury attended Sylvania Public school to deliver the One Heart program. The pair thoroughly enjoyed educating the youth on the impacts that racism can have and how we can all play a part to make a difference.
Read more CLICK HERE
Upcoming Programs and Events:
Junior Jaws Clinic - Footy and Surf Clinic - 17 Jan, 2024
After successfully collaborating at the start of this year, the Sharks and Cronulla Surfing Academy will again join forces for a three-hour Junior Jaws Footy and Surf extravaganza at North Cronulla Beach on Wednesday, January 17. Proudly presented by Westfield Miranda, the clinic will give attendees the opportunity to catch waves and get in some footy skills on the beach with members of our NRL squad. Plus, anyone who registers before December 31 will go into the draw to win one of 30 Westfield gift cards valued at $50. For more information CLICK HERE
Junior Jaws Footy and Surf Clinic - Wednesday, 17 January - 9am-12pm
North Cronulla Beach/Dunningham Park
Ages: 5-14
Cost: $80
To register CLICK HERE
And finally, in a bittersweet staffing development, we will be saying goodbye to our Community Coordinator Emily Araullo, who will be moving across to our commercial partnerships team in 2024. Emily has been tremendous for Sharks Have Heart, particularly in taking the lead in our community department in recent months. We wish her the best in her new role and this exciting step in her career.
For more information on our Sharks Have Heart and Community programs go to: https://www.sharks.com.au/sharks-have-heart/ or email [email protected]
It’s not too late to purchase that last minute Christmas gift with the Sharks Store at Sharks at Kareela offering extended trading hours up to and including Christmas Eve.
Store hours are 10am-4pm weekdays, 10-2pm this Saturday and Sunday.
The new 2024 range is in stock, including training t’s and singlets, polos and much more.
The Sharks Store at Kareela then closes from Christmas Day until January 2, however as always, on-line orders are being accepted via https://store.sharks.com.au/.
Since the previous CEO Update, pre-season preparations have continued and the NRL and NRLW season draws have been announced.
The NRL team have enjoyed a productive pre-season and will take their Christmas break from Friday, while it was pleasing to see our representative quartet of Nicho Hynes, Ronaldo Mulitalo, Briton Nikora and Royce Hunt back on deck early and commencing training ahead of their scheduled return dates. As with all of our NRL full time training group, they are obviously keen to get better and to have a major impact on the 2024 season.
Our two trial matches have been locked in, the first against the Knights on the Central Coast on Friday, February 17, the second against the Bulldogs on Saturday, February 24. All kick-off times and venue details will be on the Sharks website and in member communications ahead of those trial matches.
In relation to signings, the big news surrounds our acquisition this week of international front rower Addin Fonua-Blake on a four-year deal commencing in 2025.
The Dally M Prop of the Year in 2023, Addin will add size, skill and aggression to our forward pack and we look forward to welcoming him to the Sharks from the 2025 season.
In the past month, Toby Rudolf has re-signed for a further two seasons and we have signed promising young outside back Michael Gabrael, along with Billy Burns, a backrower with NRL experience. For more on Michael, including an impressive reel of some his highlights in the junior grades CLICK HERE and for a profile on Billy who comes to us from the Dragons CLICK HERE.
We also farewelled both Matt Moylan and Connor Tracey who were granted release requests, Matt to play for Leigh in the UK SuperLeague and Connor to join the Bulldogs.
Our junior rep and academy teams, including our female Tarsha Gale and Lisa Fiaolo Cup squads, had their first trial match hit outs ahead of their 2024 seasons when they played Souths last weekend, with all performing well. For more on those trials, including a photo gallery from the day, go to the Sharks website. CLICK HERE for the game reporting. CLICK HERE for the photo gallery.
In more news as to three young Sharks in our development system, congratulations to Eziekel Ivy, Isaac Dawson and Oliver Lester who have been selected in the NSW Koori Under 17’s to play Queensland Murri’s early in the new year.
As for our senior women’s program, we have been given confirmation that the NSW Women’s Premiership will commence on the weekend of July 6-7 and is 12 team 11 Round competition.
The NRLW Draw was also announced, with the Sharks now working towards filling their roster and to building on what they were able to achieve during their inaugural season in 2023.
Merry Christmas and we look forward to a successful New Year and 2024 season across all our teams.
