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AUSTRALIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP (ARC) TERMINATED
The Australian Rugby Union has decided to terminate the Australian Rugby Championship (ARC).
The ARU Board considered a thorough review of the 2007 tournament which revealed a $4.7 million loss for the ARU, more than $2 million over the budgeted investment.
Even allowing for cost cutting measures, forecasts for next year also suggested further losses of $3.3 million.
The ARU Board resolved that to continue with the ARC given the financial outlook – a cumulative loss of $8 million over two years – would be fiscally irresponsible.
“Strong leadership is paramount to the success of our game and, to that end, there are times when tough decisions need to be taken,” said ARU deputy chief executive Matt Carroll.
“Continuing with the ARC was considered by the Board to be an untenable financial risk for the ARU and Rugby as a whole.
“The Board noted that the ARC had achieved many of the player development goals including quality rugby for players, coaches and referees and an excellent opportunity to identify and trial talented players in higher level competition.
“They also noted the ARC was popular amongst its limited audience.”
Mr Carroll emphasised while the ARC would not continue in 2008, the ARU Board remained committed to improving the talent pathways for players and coaches, and expanding the game nationally.
“This decision should not be seen as a return to the pre-ARC status quo,” he said.
“In resolving the matter of ARC, the Board has directed ARU management to immediately commence in the New Year a full review of all professional rugby programs and funding arrangements involving national talent squads, Australia A, Sevens and grants for academies and premier rugby.
“While the format of ARC and the stakeholder investment strategy has proven to be flawed, the concept of an affordable high quality rugby competition remains a key strategy.”
Mr Carroll said the forthcoming review would be carried out in conjunction with member unions, senior clubs, the Rugby Union Players Association (RUPA) and other key stakeholders.
“We want to reach a full understanding and agreement on the most appropriate structure for the game in this country,” he said.