national rugby league operations manual

NATIONAL RUGBY LEAGUE OPERATIONS MANUAL

2012

2 NRL Operations Manual 2012 © National Rugby League Ltd. (ACN 082 088 962) 2012

NRL Operations Manual 2012© National Rugby League Ltd. (ACN 082 088 962) 2012

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Attachment A 106Attachment B 107Attachment C 108Attachment D 109Attachment E 110Attachment F 111Attachment G 113Attachment H 114

SECTION 2 Media Guidelines for NRL Matches 116

SECTION 3 NRL Country Carnival 130NRL Trial Matches 130

SECTION 4 Travel & Accommodation 144

SECTION 5 Blood Borne Infectious Diseases Guidelines 152

SECTION 6 Development Fees 158

SECTION 7 Licensing Guidelines 160

SECTION 8 Ticketing - Major Events 186

SECTION 9Medical Offi cers Handbook 210

Introduction 4

SECTION 1Match Operations & Facilities 71.1 ADMISSION PRICES 81.2 BALL / SAND PERSONS 91.3 BLEEDING PLAYERS 121.4 CANCELLATION, POSTPONEMENT, ABANDONMENT 151.5 COACHES FACILITIES 161.6 COIN TOSS AND TEAM RUN-ON 171.7 COMPETITION FORMAT 181.8 DISMISSED PLAYERS 221.9 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 231.10 EXTRAORDINARY WEATHER CONDITIONS 261.11 GOAL KICKING TIME LIMIT 291.12 GROUND MANAGERS 301.13 GROUND MARKINGS AND DIMENSIONS 351.14 GROUND SIGNAGE 381.15 JERSEYS 391.16 MATCH DAY TIME SCHEDULE 421.17 MATCH FOOTBALLS 441.18 MATCH TIMES 461.19 MEDICAL FACILITIES, EQUIPMENT & PROCEDURES 471.20 NATIONAL ANTHEM 521.21 PLAN OF FIELD 531.22 PLAYER EQUIPMENT 541.23 PLAYER FACILITIES 571.24 POST-MATCH MEDIA CONFERENCE 581.25 PRE MATCH TRAINING AND WARM UP FACILITIES 601.26 PRINT MEDIA FACILITIES 621.27 PRIZE MONEY 641.28 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS 651.29 PUBLIC FACILITIES 671.30 QUALIFICATIONS FOR NYC FINALS 691.31 RADIO MEDIA FACILITIES 711.32 REFEREES FACILITIES 721.33 REPLACEMENTS (INTERCHANGE) 741.34 SCHEDULING 781.35 SELECTION OF TEAMS 791.36 SIDELINE AREA AND BENCH LOCATIONS 801.37 STANDARD EQUIPMENT & SERVICES 821.38 SUSPENDED PLAYERS 841.39 TEAM CHANGES MATCH DAY 861.40 TELEVISION MEDIA FACILITIES 881.41 TICKETING 891.42 TIME KEEPING 911.43 TRAINERS ROLES / TREATMENT OF INJURED PLAYERS 951.44 VENUES 1011.45 VIDEO REFEREE 1031.46 VIDEO RECORDING 105

Contents


Introduction

Purpose and Application

A. This NRL Operations Manual is Schedule Eight to the NRL Rules.

B. It is intended to help regulate the conduct of Clubs, Club Offi cials, Match Offi cials and Players in order to organize, manage and administer the NRL Competition, the National Youth Competition and the Related Competitions (as each such expression is defi ned in the NRL Rules).

C. As such, every Club and every person bound by the NRL Rules must comply in all respects with these provisions. By Rule 5 of the NRL Rules, that includes:

• Clubs;

• Club Offi cials;

• Match Offi cials; and

• Players.

D. All references to NRL shall also apply to the National Youth Competition (NYC) unless otherwise specifi ed.

Enforcement

E. A breach of any of the provisions of this NRL Operations Manual may be enforced by the imposition of a penalty or penalties pursuant to Part 2 of the NRL Rules if a contravention of any of these provisions is found to have occurred.


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Defi nitions in the NRL Rules Apply

F. Unless otherwise indicated, words and expressions defi ned in the NRL Rules have the same meaning in this NRL Operations Manual.

Construction

G. In the interpretation of a provision of this NRL Operations Manual, the interpretation that will best achieve the objects set forth in paragraph B above is to be preferred to any other interpretation and regard may be had to the contents of the NRL Rules (including the other Schedules and Guidelines to the NRL Rules) when construing these provisions.

NRL Rules

H. In the event of any inconsistency between a provision of this NRL Operations Manual and a provision of the NRL Rules (save for any other Schedules or Guidelines to those Rules), the NRL Rules shall prevail.

Amendments

I. The provisions of this NRL Operations Manual may be amended by the Board from time to time, provided that any such amendments are made and notifi ed in accordance with Rule 2 of the NRL Rules.


7

OPERATIVE PROVISIONS

SECTION 1

Match Operations & Facilities


NRL 2012 OPERATIONS MANUAL

1.1 ADMISSION PRICES

1.1.1 Each Club is responsible for setting ticket prices for their Home matches.

1.1.2 Aged, invalid, TPI and service pensions are to be recognised by all Clubs throughout the season.

1.1.3 NRL season passes and NRL match passes are to be recognised by all Clubs during NRL competition rounds subject to the terms and conditions printed on the passes (refer Ticketing 1.41.2).


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1.2 BALL / SAND PERSONS

1.2.1 A maximum of two Ball/Sand persons may be used by each Club during matches.

1.2.2 a. The Visiting Club may request the Home Team to make available a maximum of two people to act for the Visiting Club in the role of Ball/Sand persons.

b. During NYC fi nals matches where both teams are from interstate, the NRL will appoint Ball / Sand persons.

1.2.3 Ball persons must place and leave the ball on the touchline at the point where the ball crossed the line and next to the touch judge. Ball persons MUST NOT under any circumstances, throw the ball into the fi eld of play or to a Player close to the touch line.

1.2.4 Ball/Sand persons who enter the fi eld of play to deliver sand or kicking tees may only do so at a stoppage of play and must leave the fi eld of play immediately. If a kicking tee is used, after the kick has been taken a trainer must remove it from the fi eld.

1.2.5 Minimum clothing requirements for ball persons are considered to be four (4) sets of shorts, socks (Club colours) and shirts/jerseys, and should be part of the gear carried to away matches.



a. Shirt/Jersey:

White, long sleeve or short sleeve is preferred. However, designs without the Club’s dominant colour prevailing will be accepted. The Club’s sponsor’s logo can be displayed with the exception of alcohol product logos. In wet weather, clear plastic coats should be provided by the Home Team.

b. Age:

Ball/Sand persons must be a minimum of 10 years of age.

1.2.6 Use of Motorised Vehicles

Upon written application, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) may approve the use by a Club of motor bikes or similar motorised vehicles (“the Vehicles”) for the purpose of conveying kicking tees and/or sand onto the fi eld of play. The following provisions for the use of these vehicles must be strictly adhered to at all times:

a. The Vehicles may only be taken onto the fi eld when the ball is out of play for an attempt at conversion following a try, a penalty kick at goal, and starts of play from the 50 metre line.

b. The Vehicles may not enter the fi eld of play in any other circumstances (e.g. a penalty place kick for touch, or a 20 metre restart).

c. The Vehicles may only deliver the kicking tee to the kicker. They must immediately leave the fi eld and return to the NRL approved position where these vehicles must be parked when not in use.


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d. Under no circumstances are the Vehicles to stay on the fi eld until the kick has been taken (i.e. a trainer must retrieve the tee after the kick).

e. The riders or drivers must be mature and competent enough to operate the Vehicles safely at all times.

f. The operation of the Vehicle is to be under the constant management and supervision of a club offi cial.

g. The Vehicles are not to be used in any manner that could potentially pose a risk of injury to players or on-fi eld offi cials.

h. The Vehicles must at all times be operated responsibly and take the most direct route on and off the fi eld.

i. When not on the fi eld the Vehicles must be kept at a safe distance from the touch line and not impede the access or movement of other offi cials (e.g. touch judges, trainers, etc.).

j. The Vehicles must be well maintained and not cause any excessive noise or visual pollution when in use.

k. The riders or drivers must adhere to any directions from the NRL appointed Ground Manager.

l. The NRL reserves the right to withdraw approval for the use of such vehicles, without cause, at any time.



1.3 BLEEDING PLAYERS

1.3.1 The following procedure will apply in all cases where a player is bleeding or his person, clothing or equipment has been contaminated by blood.

a. If the referee notices a bleeding or blood contaminated player he will immediately stop play and call ‘time-out’ and signal to the team trainer to attend to the player.

b. The team trainer will immediately enter the fi eld of play to assess whether the player can be quickly treated on the fi eld or whether he will require treatment off the fi eld.

c. If the trainer advises that the player can be treated on the fi eld, the referee will instruct the player to drop out behind play for that purpose and the match will immediately recommence.

d. If the trainer advises the referee that he will have to treat the player off the fi eld, the match will not restart until the player has left the fi eld. The player may be interchanged, or alternatively the team can elect to temporarily play on with 12 players. (Note: other than for the initial assessment, the match will not be held up while the bleeding player receives treatment or is interchanged).

e. If the referee stops play twice for the same player and the same wound, the player must be taken from the fi eld for treatment and either interchanged or the team may elect to play on with 12 players until the bleeding player returns.


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f. The referee will hold the game up to replace a bleeding player, but a trainer must fi rst advise the referee that an interchange is going to take place.

g. If a bleeding player has left the fi eld for treatment and is not interchanged, he may return to the fi eld of play at any time provided he does so from an on-side position. If the bleeding player has been interchanged, he may only return to the fi eld through the interchange offi cial as a normal interchange player.

h. A bleeding player returning to the fi eld of play who has not been interchanged, is not to be regarded as a replacement/interchange player and therefore may take a kick for goal. Conversely, a bleeding player returning to the fi eld of play who has been interchanged may not take a kick for goal at that time.

1.3.2 Stitching/Stapling

Any player who is bleeding and requires treatment by way of either stitches, stapling or otherwise, must be taken to the team dressing room or shared medical facility so this procedure can be conducted out of the view of the general public. After the treatment the wound must be bandaged or covered to protect the injury, to eliminate the risk of further bleeding and to prevent the potential risk of transmission of blood-borne infectious diseases.



1.3.3 Contaminated Clothing

In any case where a player’s person, clothing or equipment has been contaminated by blood, whether through a wound to himself or through contact with a wounded player, the referee shall direct the team trainer to enter the fi eld of play to attend to that player by taking immediate steps to ensure that the player is free of any blood contamination before that player shall be permitted by the referee to rejoin play. Until those steps have been taken, the player shall, at the minimum, drop out behind play. Contaminated clothing and / or equipment should be treated with a solution of detergent and bleach, as outlined in clause 5.1.6.

1.3.4 All Clubs and persons bound by the NRL Rules must otherwise comply with the Club Medical Offi cers Handbook, a copy of which forms Section 9 of this Manual.


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1.4 CANCELLATION, POSTPONEMENT, ABANDONMENT

1.4.1 NRL/NYC Competition matches may only be cancelled, delayed, postponed or abandoned with the prior approval of the NRL Chief Executive Offi cer or the NRL Director of Football.

1.4.2 After the commencement of an NRL/NYC Competition match, a referee may temporarily suspend play if, in his view, continuation of play would place the safety of Players and/or the Match Offi cials at risk.

1.4.3 If the referee suspends play:

a. No competition points will be awarded to either Team; and

b. the NRL may make any rulings or take any further action that it, at its sole discretion, deems appropriate, whether such action includes directing the resumption of the match or the replaying of the match or otherwise.

1.4.4 For emergency procedures see section 1.9 of these Provisions.

1.4.5 National Youth Competition matches which due to serious injury or other delay encroach on the NRL warm-up period may be terminated after receiving the authorisation of the NRL Director of Football or his nominee. The score at the time of the termination of the match will be the fi nal result for the purpose of determining competition points table.



1.5 COACHES FACILITIES

1.5.1 Two separate match viewing facilities for the coaches of the opposing teams must be provided at each Venue. These facilities must be capable of seating six (6) people each and must include a television monitor with a live feed of the host broadcaster’s match telecast. Home Club and Visiting Team facilities must be of comparable construction, fi t out and position in relation to the fi eld of play.

1.5.2 The coach’s box / facility for either the Home Team or the Visiting Club must not be situated next to the video referee’s box.

1.5.3 Each coach must also be provided with a coaches area on the sideline.

1.5.4 One white board (or a similar instruction tool) must be provided in each dressing room.

1.5.5 Any variation to the above minimum requirements must have the prior approval of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).


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1.6 COIN TOSS AND TEAM RUN-ON

1.6.1 The captains of each Team must make themselves available for the coin toss in the presence of the match referee at half time of the preceding match or as otherwise advised by the NRL Ground Manager. If the captain is unavailable to attend the toss he must appoint and authorise another player from the team to attend in his place.

1.6.2 Clubs must not authorise any other person to be present at the coin toss without the prior written approval of the NRL Director of Football

1.6.3 The toss may be televised (at the discretion of the host broadcaster), and captains are required to comply with any reasonable requests from the host broadcaster for a brief interview immediately after the toss has been completed.

1.6.4 In all cases the Visiting Team will take the fi eld fi rst when directed by the Ground Manager, followed by the Home Team also when directed by the Ground Manager.

1.6.5 Under no circumstances are fi reworks to be placed on the fi eld of play at any time before the game without the prior approval of the NRL Director of Football. Also, for safety reasons no fi reworks are to be placed anywhere near the players tunnel as the players enter the fi eld.



1.7 COMPETITION FORMAT

1.7.1 Subject only to the other provisions of the NRL Rules (including any other Schedules or Provisions to the NRL Rules) regarding the deduction of competition points, teams participating in the NRL Competition rounds (other than the Finals Series) will be allocated two (2) competition points for a win (or a bye), one (1) competition point for a draw (if still level at the conclusion of extra time), and zero (0) competition points for a loss.

1.7.2 There will be no extra-time played in the National Youth Competition (except Final Series matches).

1.7.3 If scores are equal at the conclusion of normal time in any NRL Competition match, then in such matches, a period of extra time shall follow whereby the fi rst scorer of any point or points (e.g. fi eld goal, penalty goal or try) will immediately be declared the winner. If a try is scored in extra time the conversion kick will not be permitted. The commencement of the period of extra time shall be determined by the toss of a coin as described under the Laws of the Game. If no point or points have been scored after a further period on fi ve (5) minutes, the referee shall cease play and teams shall immediately change ends. The team that did not kick-off to commence the initial period of extra time will kick-off to commence the second period. Play shall then continue for a further period of fi ve (5) minutes and if no point or points have still been scored, the match will conclude and be declared a draw with each team receiving one (1) competition point.

1.7.4 In NRL Competition matches, any points scored during periods of extra time describe above shall be included in the calculation of points scored for and against each competing team.


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1.7.5 At the conclusion of matches in NRL/NYC Competition rounds as provided for in the NRL/NYC Draws, all teams will be ranked in descending order according to the number of competition points accrued during the season, subject only to the other provisions of the NRL Rules (including any other Schedules or Provisions to the NRL Rules) regarding the deduction of competition points. Positions in the Finals Series will be determined on this basis subject to the number of teams to be included in the Finals Series as determined by the NRL Board.

1.7.6 At the conclusion of matches in NRL/NYC Competition rounds as provided for in the NRL/NYC Draws, if two (2) or more teams are equal in competition points, rankings will be determined according to the following criteria from the total results of all matches played in NRL/NYC Competition rounds:

a) greater positive difference between points scored for and against, then if equal,

b) greater percentage of points scored for and against, being determined by:

points scored for x 100

points scored against 1

then if equal,

c) most tries scored, then if equal,

d) most goals kicked, then if equal,

e) most drop goals kicked, then if equal,

f) by the toss of a coin.



1.7.7 The format for the matches to be played in the Finals Series will be as determined by the NRL Board. The current Finals Series format is detailed in Attachment G.

1.7.8 If scores are equal at the conclusion of normal time in any Finals Series match, then in such matches, including the NRL/NYC Grand Final, a period of extra time shall follow whereby the fi rst scorer of any point or points (e.g. fi eld goal, penalty goal or try) will immediately be declared the winner. If a try is scored in extra time the conversion kick will not be permitted. The commencement of the period of extra time shall be determined by the toss of a coin as described under the Laws of the Game. If no point or points have been scored after a further period on fi ve (5) minutes, the referee shall cease play and teams shall immediately change ends. The team that did not kick-off to commence the initial period of extra time, will kick-off to recommence the second period. Play shall then continue on an unlimited time basis until the fi rst point or points have been scored to determine the winner of the match.

1.7.9 NYC fi nals matches will be allocated to be played before NRL fi nals matches regardless of rankings within the fi nals series.

1.7.10 In all cases, Finals Series matches will be played at Venues determined by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).


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1.7.11 All Finals Series matches are under the control of the NRL and are considered to be neutral matches. The NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will issue specifi c requirements (“Final Series Host Clubs Requirements”) to each Club which qualifi es to host Finals Series Matches. If any of the Final Series Host Club Requirements are not met by the Host Club the NRL may impose penalties.

1.7.12 All revenue from Finals Series matches shall be retained by the NRL.



1.8 DISMISSED PLAYERS

1.8.1 Any player who during the course of a match is temporarily dismissed (i.e. sin-binned) must return to a dressing room on the host broadcaster side of the fi eld so the period of temporary suspension can be monitored by the sin bin operator(s). The dismissed player(s) will be called into the tunnel with two (2) minutes remaining of their suspension but cannot enter the playing area until indicated by the timekeepers.

1.8.2 Any player permanently dismissed from the fi eld (i.e. sent-off), must immediately retire to their own dressing room until he has changed out of his playing uniform. Under no circumstances can a dismissed player return to the players’ bench unless it is outside the area bounded by the fence surrounding the playing area.


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1.9 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

1.9.1 Emergency circumstances include:

a. A natural disaster (e.g., earthquake, fl ood, fi re etc.).

b. A situation where the safety of players or match offi cials is potentially or actually at risk (e.g., lightning, heat wave etc.).

c. Where an aircraft, which was scheduled to transport one of the teams for the playing of the match, is delayed or cancelled.

d. Such other circumstances as the NRL Director of Football declares to be an emergency circumstance.

1.9.2 If an emergency circumstance arises, the procedure shall be as follows:

a. The NRL Director of Football, in conjunction with the referee and club management, will make any decision on the postponing or cancelling of any scheduled match.

b. If a match is to be delayed due to severe weather conditions, the NRL Director of Football will make a decision on the length of delay in consultation with the NRL Ground Manager and the television network (if applicable).

c. Wherever possible, a match which cannot be played/completed on the scheduled day must be played or completed within twenty four (24) hours. If the original Venue is unplayable, then an alternative Venue will be selected by the NRL.



1.9.3 Where a match is stopped due to an emergency circumstance, the following steps must be taken:

a. As the emergency is a “time out”, a record will be made by the referee regarding the score, fi eld position, possession and tackle count at the time of the cessation of play.

b. If the match recommences within a reasonable time, play will continue as with any “time out” - with the same fi eld position, possession and tackle count.

c. If the match cannot be continued within a reasonable time, then the circumstances will be reported to the NRL by the NRL Ground Manager, after which a decision will be taken by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

d. If an aircraft, which was scheduled to transport one of the teams for the playing of the match is delayed for any reason, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will make a decision regarding the rescheduling of the fi xture.

1.9.4 Where a Club Medical Offi cer is of the opinion that a match should be stopped to allow the transportation of an injured Player by helicopter, the following procedures should be followed:


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a. The Chief Executives or their nominees, of both competing Clubs, as well as the NRL Ground Manager, shall determine whether the match is to be stopped after consultation with Club Medical Offi cers.

b. If a helicopter has been called to attend the injury, all chairs, bolsters, signage or any objects which may become a danger when a helicopter lands, must be removed from the fi eld of play for the safety of all spectators.

c. Alternate landing areas for helicopters should be investigated and advised by Clubs to the NRL as this could prevent the temporary cessation of a match. The Home Team Offi cial should advise paramedics present of the location of the landing area for the helicopter once called to the Venue.

d. It is also suggested that Clubs make airport fl ares available to assist an approaching helicopter to make a safe landing at the Venue.

1.9.5 When matches are to be played in country areas, operational staff from each Club competing should be aware of facilities available to them in case of an emergency involving an injured Player.



1.10 EXTRAORDINARY WEATHER CONDITIONS

1.10.1 The following represent special provisions for extraordinary weather conditions:

a. The Home Team affected will be responsible for ensuring that its stadium has adequate equipment on hand to handle wet, icy or very hot/humid conditions.

b. The Home Team will be responsible for having a suffi cient amount of paint or dye available for line markings in a colour to contrast as sharply as possible with the fi eld.

c. The match referee and NRL Ground Manager will jointly be responsible for all corrective procedures used in abnormal conditions.

d. Note: No Club has the right to postpone, cancel or transfer a match. The NRL itself is the only body which can make the decision and subsequent announcement. If any Club or venue operator has reservations about the conduct a match, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) and the Home Team’s Chief Executive will inspect the facility. Only after such consultation and report to the NRL Chief Executive Offi cer or NRL Director of Football will any decision be announced.


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1.10.2 Rain:

The following represent special Provisions for wet weather:

a. Field markings, particularly touch lines, goal lines and dead ball lines should be “touched up” at half time and/or just prior to the fi rst grade match, if they have faded due to wet weather conditions.

b. No other re-marking procedures will be permitted during the course of a match without the prior approval of the NRL Ground Manager.

1.10.3 Heat

1.10.3.1 Pre Season Trial Matches

Pre season trial matches should only proceed when the Club Doctor for each of the opposing teams both agree that, in their joint opinion, the prevailing weather conditions are considered safe for play.

1.10.3.2 Match Conditions (Hot Weather)

During any match in a season, should the Club Medical Offi cer for each of the opposing teams both agree that, in their joint opinion, the prevailing weather conditions necessitate some relief from normal playing conditions, the NRL Ground Manager may approve the following concessions to apply for that match only:

a) Referees will call a 1 minute ‘time-out’ approximately 20 minutes into each half to allow players to take a fl uid break. Players will remain on the fi eld and may only be tended to by the three (3) trainers listed on the Team List. No coaching staff will be permitted on the fi eld. After the break, play will resume in the normal manner (i.e. play the ball, scrum, penalty, etc.)



b) Trainers provisions will be relaxed so that all three (3) trainers can carry water throughout the match subject to the provisions of Section 1.43.3 and 1.43.5 c(i)

c) Half-time break will be extended to 15 minutes

d) Interchange procedures will be extended to provide for three (3) players from each team to interchange at the same time (instead of only two (2))

1.10.3.3 In the event the Club medical offi cers fail to agree, the home medical offi cer should contact the NRL chief medical offi cer for a fi nal decision. The Club medical offi cer MUST provide the information detailed in the NRL Medical Offi cers Handbook to the NRL chief medical offi cer before any decision can be made. These discussions need to take place well before the nominated kick-off time to allow time for the process to take place. (See also Trainers Roles 1.43.5 b ii)

1.10.3.4 Delay or Postponement of Match (Heat wave or excessively hot conditions)

Should the Club Medical Offi cer from each of the opposing teams both agree that, in their joint opinion, a match is to be played in what are considered to be ‘heat wave’ or excessively hot conditions, the two Club Medical Offi cer and the NRL Ground Manager must confer in the fi rst instance, and then liaise with the NRL Chief Medical Offi cer by telephone. If following that telephone conference, the NRL Chief Medical Offi cer is of the opinion that proceeding with the match could be dangerous to the health and safety of the players, the NRL Chief Executive Offi cer or NRL Director of Football must be immediately contacted who may decide (in his absolute discretion) to delay or postpone the match to a date and/or to a time to be fi xed.

1.10.3.5 All Clubs and persons bound by the NRL Rules must otherwise comply with the Club Medical Offi cers Handbook, a copy of which forms Section 9 of this Manual.


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1.11 GOAL KICKING TIME LIMIT

1.11.1 All goal kicks in NRL matches (i.e. penalties and conversions) are subject to a time limit of 1 minute 40 seconds. Time will be calculated from the awarding of a try or penalty by the referee until the time the ball is kicked.

1.11.2 Should any kick for goal take longer than the allowable time, the NRL may issue a breach notice to the offending club imposing a penalty.

1.11.3 The referee may still call a ‘time-out’ in cases where he forms the opinion that a player is taking excessive time when kicking for goal.

1.11.4 Should the referee call ‘time-out’ during a goal kick, it will not pause the overall timing of the kick for the purpose of determining if a breach has occurred.

1.11.5 The NRL will consider unusual circumstances (eg. extreme weather conditions) prior to any decision to breach a Club under these provisions.



1.12 GROUND MANAGERS

1.12.1 Function

The function of a Ground Manager employed by the NRL is to ensure that all relevant Rules of the NRL are enforced whilst offering assistance to the competing clubs and match offi cials as necessary.

1.12.2 General Responsibilities:

a. NRL Ground Managers must have a thorough knowledge and understanding of all relevant NRL and NYC Rules.

b. NRL Ground Managers are reminded that players, offi cials and media are to be given every assistance and courtesy at all times.

c. At the completion of a match, each NRL Ground Manager must furnish a report and Team Sheets to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) via e-mail by 10am Monday (Tuesday for Monday Night Football). A sample copy of the Ground Manager’s report form is provided at the end of this section (Attachment F). If an urgent matter arises, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) should be advised by telephone as soon as possible after the completion of the match.

d. Should the NRL Ground Manager fi nd it necessary to submit a report of non-compliance with any NRL Rules, he should verbally notify the relevant Club Chief Executive Offi cer or Football Manager of the detail of the alleged breach and that the matter will be included in his report to the NRL. Such notifi cation should be given as soon as possible, but at least before leaving the venue.


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e. NRL Ground Managers should work in full co-operation with security offi cers and the police allocated to each ground.

f. It is also essential that NRL Ground Managers take direction from any of the NRL’s management team present on match day.

g. NRL Ground Managers are there to assist at all times and make suggestions to Club Offi cials and Chief Executives. In this regard, they can make recommendations through the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) but must not become involved in matters involving NRL policy.

h. NRL Ground Managers are not to make any comment to the media in relation to matters of NRL policy or any matter that is likely to be the subject of an investigation by the NRL. They may provide general information to the media if such information does not fall into the aformentioned categories.

1.12.3 Specifi c Duties:

NRL Ground Managers must arrive at the ground at least 90 minutes prior to the start of the NYC match preceding the NRL First Grade match. If a NSWRL fi xture has also been scheduled, the NRL Ground Manager must arrive prior to the commencement of that match.

In addition to the other requirements set out in these provisions, NRL Ground Managers must ensure that:

a. Proper ground markings have been made and that the grass length is appropriate to ensure that the surface is playable and does not present a risk to the safety or welfare of players.



b. All ground signage is correct and complies with the Club’s obligations under the NRL Rules and NRL Operation Manual.

c. Sponsorship markings are correct and properly displayed.

d. Media accommodation is up to standard.

e. Players rooms - both home and away - are acceptable, including showers and toilets.

f. The Medical room is in a clean state.

g. Adequate precautions have been taken by Club Offi cials if a match is to be played under lights, including the fact that all lamps are working. Regardless of whether lights are fi tted permanently at grounds, or mobile lighting is present, it is the home Club’s responsibility.

h. The Referees room is in an acceptable condition.

i. The time clock, siren and two minute warning alarm are operating correctly.

j. The area for sin bin operations is available.

k. Cameras and equipment for television matches are in a position so

as to afford no danger to players, referees or others who may be on

the ground. NRL Ground Managers must ensure that any television

camera tripods located within 5 metres of the fi eld of play are covered

with protective padding by Broadcasters to ensure the safety and

welfare of players.

l. Suffi cient area is available for still camera persons to operate on the

sidelines.

m. A spot check is undertaken to ensure that all media have the correct accreditation.

n. Proper liaison is carried out with media and, in particular, the television network contracted by the NRL.


SECTION ONE

33

o. The host broadcaster’s exclusive rights are protected.

p. Ground facilities for parking, food outlets, toilet and other public utilities are acceptable.

q. All matches are scheduled as per match starting times set out in 1.18.1. NRL Ground Managers are always notifi ed prior to any alteration. Exact kick-off time is to be adhered to as described in 1.16.1.

r. Medicabs, stretchers, frames and RED collars are available. If a Medicab is available, ensure all trainers and medical personnel correctly use it.

s. Where an ambulance is present at a ground, it has facilities for entry into the playing area and on to the playing fi eld.

t. NRL/NYC timekeepers and interchange offi cials are briefed before every match to ensure they fully understand their roles and responsibilities. Also, with at least 5 minutes of normal time remaining should it appear possible any game could go into extra time, the NRL Ground Manager is to make further contact with the timekeepers and reconfi rm that the correct timing procedures will be implemented.

u. Press Conference – Ground Managers are to assist to get the press conference started 15 minutes post match, and assist in the process of running the conference in accordance with section 1.24.1f.

v. Match Footballs – Ground Managers to collect the footballs prior to match, check the condition of match balls as stated in section 1.17.10 and return the footballs to the home club after the match.

w. Match Day Time Schedule – co-ordinate with the television fl oor manager, synchronise watches as stated in section 1.16.1 & 1.16.2 and maintain contact throughout the match day to ensure the schedule is being followed.



x. Team lists – receive team lists for NRL/NYC one hour prior to kick off and distribute copies as stated in section 1.39.1 & 1.39.2. The Home Club Media Manager is responsible for getting the team sheets up to the media box, not the Ground Manager.

y. Ensure that the run on team is as stated in the offi cial team list (no late changes without notifi cation).

z. Assist the Drug Testers with any requests during game day.

1.12.4 Uniforms

NRL Ground Managers will be issued with distinctive clothing which must be worn when on duty.

1.12.5 Payment

NRL Ground Managers will be paid at the end of each month through electronic transfer to a nominated fi nancial institution. Income tax will be deducted from all payments.


SECTION ONE

35

1.13 GROUND MARKINGS AND DIMENSIONS

1.13.1 These provisions set out the offi cial markings and dimensions of the playing surface for NRL Competition matches.

1.13.2 The Home Club is responsible for having its home fi eld lines marked, numbered and painted in strict accordance with the diagrams in this manual (Section 1.21).

1.13.3 Dimensions

Each NRL Venue playing surface will have the following dimensions:

a. Field Width: 68 metres (unless otherwise approved by the NRL)

b. Field Length: Goal Line to Goal Line – 100m

c. In Goal areas: Refer to Section 1.13.5

d. Goal Posts: Refer to Section 1.37.1



1.13.4 Markings

Each NRL Venue playing surface will include the following markings:

a. Grid Line Markings - Unbroken lines 15cm in width and white in colour for the following (except 40m line):

10m

20m - must be dissected at the mid point by a perpendicular line 45cm in length.

30m

40m (Red Line)

50m

Goal line

Dead ball line

Touch line

b. Distance Markings: Distance markers will be placed at the following lines and will be white in colour with a red outline and 2.0m in height:

10m

20m

30m

40m

50m (one only opposite to NRL logo)


SECTION ONE

37

c. Media Lines

i. Each Venue will have a red media restraining line marked out on either side of the fi eld, 1.5m from the touch line.

ii. Where a Venue has appropriate distance between the dead ball line and the fence, a further restraining line should be marked parallel to and the length of the dead ball line (minimum distance fi ve (5) metres).

d. 10m and 20m Lines

Lines will be marked both 10m and 20m in from the touchline. These are to be 10cm in width & white in colour to a length of fi ve (5) metres (2.5m either side of cross line for free kicks and 5m between cross lines for scrum marks).

1.13.5 In-Goal Areas

a. The depth of all in-goal areas in the NRL Competition shall be eight (8) metres.

b. The depth of in-goal areas eight (8) metres is not to be changed without the prior written approval of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).



1.14 GROUND SIGNAGE

1.14.1 Each Club must ensure the following NRL signage rights are met at its Home Ground for Telstra Premiership matches.

a. Two (2) signs positioned on the half way line.

b. One (1) sign positioned behind each goal line (in direct line with a TV camera).

c. Use of the surface of the fi eld of play for signage.

d. 3 x 30 sec & 1 x 90 sec TVC on the Bigscreen.

-5min prior to NRL kick off -3min after NRL half time siren -3min after end of NRL game

e. Telstra Premiership logo must be displayed on all media backdrops during Telstra Premiership matches.

1.14.2 Each Club must ensure the following NRL signage rights are met at its Home Ground for Toyota Cup matches.

a. 8 sideline bolsters in prime TV positions. 2.5m long x .4m high. Signs must be positioned to receive best coverage

b. 2 sideline bolsters positioned behind each goal line ( in direct line with the tv camera)

c. 4 x 30 sec TVC on the Bigscreens during Toyota Cup Matches

1.14.3 Each Club is responsible for ensuring that all temporary signage (e.g. scrolling, A-frames, bolsters, etc.) is positioned so that it does not present a potential safety risk to players or offi cials. In inclement conditions Clubs must ensure signage is placed suffi cient distance from the fi eld of play so as not to pose an injury risk to a sliding player.

1.14.4 On match day, it is the responsibility of the home Club to prevent the display of temporary signs or banners which obstruct sight lines of existing perimeter fence signage or which are infl ammatory, derogatory or in general bad taste.


SECTION ONE

39

1.15 JERSEYS

1.15.1 Jersey Clashes

a. All Clubs are required to have two playing strips in contrasting colours to avoid clashes with other teams that may play in similar colours.

b. In all cases the Home Team will be entitled to wear the playing strip of their choice. The Visiting Team may apply to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) for approval to wear either of their playing strips, however, where the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) considers that the Visiting Team’s strip selection does not suffi ciently contrast with the Home Team’s selection, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) may direct the Visiting Team to wear their alternate strip.

c. If the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) is of the opinion that the colour contrast between the two playing strips of any Club is not suffi cient, the Club concerned will be required to have a third playing strip in a completely contrasting colour available for use as directed by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee). Any Club required to have a third playing strip will be advised in writing by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

d. The Form of Notice (attachment E) advising of the Home Teams selected playing strip, and the Visiting Team’s requested playing strip, must be completed and faxed or emailed to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) by 5:00pm on the Monday preceding each match.

e. The NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will advise Clubs of approved playing strips as soon as possible after receiving the Form of Notice.



f. In matches played at ‘neutral’ venues (e.g. Finals) both participating Clubs may apply to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) for approval to wear their preferred playing strip. After considering such requests the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will advise both competing teams of the approved playing strips for that match.

1.15.2 Jerseys (Traditional)

Any proposed use of traditional or modifi ed jerseys for particular matches or occasions must be approved by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) at least one calendar month prior to the date of the fi xture.

1.15.3 Jersey Numbering

a. All NRL Clubs are to use the traditional numbering system (i.e., 1 to 13) corresponding to their position.

Position Number Position Number

Fullback 1 Front row 8

Right wing 2 Hooker 9

Right centre 3 Front row 10

Left centre 4 Second row 11

Left wing 5 Second row 12

Five eighth 6 Lock 13

Halfback 7


SECTION ONE

41

b. Interchange Players should carry numbers 14 to 17. Replacements, outside of advertised/programmed teams, may wear jerseys numbered from 18 to 25.

c. Jersey numbers must be of a size, style, design and colour as approved by the NRL.

d. Players names may only be placed on playing jerseys if prior written approval has been obtained from the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).



1.16 MATCH DAY TIME SCHEDULE

1.16.1 At least one hour prior to kick off, the NRL Ground Manager will meet with the two team co-ordinators and, where applicable, the television network’s fl oor manager and producer, to approve the match running sheet (including exact kick-off time as near as possible to the NRL advertised kick-off time) and to advise of fi nal team lists. NRL Ground Managers must then ensure that matches kick-off as scheduled.

1.16.2 Ground Managers must:

a. Establish the exact time, and synchronise all watches.

b. Review the time schedule or running sheet.

c. Determine the exact time for the two minute warning alarm to sound indicating when the Players will be asked to leave the dressing room (see 1.16.5 below).

1.16.3 Unless otherwise advised by the NRL, twelve (12) minutes is the MAXIMUM half time break for NRL matches and ten (10) minutes for NYC matches.

1.16.4 The Home Club is responsible for ensuring that:

a. The public address announcer is prepared and cues the correct player introductions if required. The interchanges or sin bin are announced correctly with no comment other than fact.

b. The half time entertainment is structured so that personnel taking part in such entertainment have cleared the fi eld completely with at least two (2) minutes of the half time break remaining.

c. Where applicable, the match clock is reset as soon as the fi rst half ends.


SECTION ONE

43

1.16.5 Two minute warning:

a. Each Venue must install an electronic warning alarm that is audible in both dressing rooms and the Referees room.

b. The alarm will be activated approximately two (2) minutes prior to the teams being required to take the fi eld in each half.

c. Teams that do not respond to the two (2) minute warning when called, or leave their dressing room prior to being called by the NRL Ground Manager or host broadcaster, will be reported by the NRL Ground Manager and may be subject to Penalties.



1.17 MATCH FOOTBALLS

1.17.1 Twenty fi ve (25) competition footballs are provided free of charge by the NRL for match days only. These footballs are identifi ed by the lack of a bar code. Three (3) new footballs must be introduced into fi rst grade after every second home match, i.e., for home matches 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, & 11th matches.

1.17.2 Club nominees are to ensure they have ready access to footballs on match day and ensure a deputy nominee is available if the usual person is unavailable.

1.17.3 The requirement for football pressure is 8-10 pounds per square inch (psi) or 5.5-6.5 kp.

1.17.4 The upper (10psi) and lower (8psi) guides are given to ensure correct pressure depending on the match day’s prevailing weather conditions.

1.17.5 a) Only offi cial NRL footballs are to be used during NRL fi xtures. They are to be in a clean state and with no additional markings on them, other than the manufacturer’s usual logo and/or the NRL football sponsor’s logo.

b) Only offi cial NYC footballs are to be used during NYC fi xtures. They are to be in a clean state and with no additional markings on them, other than the manufacturer’s usual logo and/or the NYC football sponsor’s logo.

1.17.6 At the end of each half and each match, match offi cials will return footballs to the referees’ room and ball persons will collect the footballs prior to the commencement of the second half or the next match.


SECTION ONE

45

1.17.7 At the conclusion of the day’s proceedings, the footballs will be collected by the Club nominee, cleaned and secured for the next home match.

1.17.8 Match balls must be clean with clear logos visible at all times.

1.17.9 The NRL Ground Manager must be advised of the names of Club personnel in charge of match day footballs.

1.17.10 The NRL Ground Manager will check the condition of the match balls prior to the commencement of the match.

1.17.11 It is the home Club’s responsibility to supply footballs if NRL/NYC Competition

matches have been transferred to country or other Venues.



1.18 MATCH TIMES

1.18.1 Match days and times will be as determined and published by the NRL.

1.18.2 Once set, the above times can only be altered with the approval of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

1.18.3 Actual kick off time is as described in 1.16.1.

1.18.4 All NRL and NYC matches will be played over forty (40) minute halves with time off for injury unless otherwise determined by the match referee. In NRL matches only time off will also apply for video referee decisions.

1.18.5 The half time break scheduled (as per match day run sheet – See 1.16.1) is to be strictly observed.

1.18.6 Curtain raiser fi xtures, or similar, must be programmed to fi nish at least 20 minutes before advertised NRL / NYC kick-off times to allow for on-fi eld warm-ups.

1.18.7 Additional time must be factored in if entertainment is being scheduled prior to NRL matches.

1.18.8 Match day event programs must be advised to the NRL at least two (2) weeks prior to home matches.

1.18.9 A Form of Notice for advice on match day event programs is attached to the end of this section (Attachment D).


SECTION ONE

47

1.19 MEDICAL FACILITIES, EQUIPMENT & PROCEDURES

1.19.1 Dressing Rooms must:

a. Provide separate rooms for each team with adequate lighting (preferably angle poised light) with hot and cold water, sink, soap, wall dispenser and paper towels.

b. Contain a table (for observing, assessing and treating players with injuries, minor head injuries, concussion, fractures, lacerations etc).

c. Provide facilities for sterilisation of instruments and adequate disposal of used materials (syringes, needles, contaminated waste disposal kit). These are considered essential.

d. Provide chemicals and equipment to deal adequately with blood contamination of clothing, equipment and surfaces.

i. Disposable surgical gloves

ii. 1:10 solution of bleach

iii. Disposable paper towels

iv. Plastic bags

e. Provide a telephone and display the contact numbers of local hospitals. Preferably such telephone should be hands-free to allow consultation with external medical experts should the need arise.

f. Ensure unobstructed access for player taken by stretcher from the fi eld.

g. Provide ready access for ambulances at all times. The ground surface outside of the medical rooms to be sealed for ease of access by vehicles.

Note: It is recommended that doctors carry pre-prepared sterilised instruments (enough for the day).



1.19.2 Shared Triage Facility

a. At each ground there shall be a well equipped room of adequate size to enable adequate access to treating personnel for the management of serious injury that may require resuscitation and intensive treatment. Ideally, this facility should be situated between the two dressing rooms, enabling Medical Offi cer’s from home and visiting teams to assist each other.

b. Oxygen, suction, IV fl uids, equipment and essential drugs should be available in this room together with:

i. Adequate light

ii. Sink and hand washing facilities

iii. Couch

iv. Sharps container

v. Designated contaminated waste disposal container

vi. Autoclave

vii. Aussiescoop 425GT stretcher or long spine Board.

viii. Rigid cervical extrication collar - stiff neck or equivalent

ix. Head immobilising device – ‘head bed’ or equivalent

1.19.3 General

a. If possible, each Club should provide another fi rst aid room for non seriously injured spectators. This could incorporate Ambulance Service personnel, if available.


SECTION ONE

49

b. Any seriously injured spectators should be treated in the “Shared Triage Facility” – See 1.19.2.

c. The home and visiting teams must have a doctor present at all matches. If the team doctor cannot attend a match, it is the responsibility of the relevant Club to ensure that a suitably qualifi ed doctor is in attendance.

d. Parking should be provided for team doctors in close proximity to dressing rooms. This is not just for the doctor’s convenience but to enable immediate access to Medical Offi cer’s vehicle to retrieve essential drugs and equipment.

1.19.4 Hygiene

a. Players should be made aware of the potential danger of transferring infectious diseases, e.g., Hepatitis A, B and C and HIV.

b. No spitting is permitted, except in specifi ed controlled areas.

c. Contaminated and blood stained articles and dressings are to be placed in appropriate ‘contaminated waste’ disposal bags.

d. Dressing room fl oors should be cleaned and mopped after the team leaves the room.

e. Non slip, nonporous fl ooring material should be in place.

f. Players must not share drink containers. Each player should have his own drink container. Shared drink containers may transmit meningococcal disease.

1.19.5 Autoclave

An autoclave is to be provided at all NRL Venues.



1.19.6 Medical Supplies

a. Laerdal or CIG resuscitator bag (e.g. ambu-bag)

b. Oxygen Supply capable of at least 15L

c. Face masks

d. Airways, guedel, sizes 3,4,5

e. Laryngeal Masks (single use disposable) 3, 4, 5.

f. Lubricant for intubation / placement of laryngeal mask

g. Endotracheal Tubes, protex hilo, sizes 7,8,9

h. Endotracheal tube introducer , adult

i. Syringes 10 ml, linen taped to rubber shod Harrison-Cripps forceps

j. Linen Tape, 2.5cm width by 3 metres, (to secure an Endotracheal tube)

k. Trauma Scissors (To remove clothing, cut tape)

l. Adrenaline 1:1000 in 1 ml amps x 5

m. Atropine 600µg amps x 5

n. Syringe 2ml x 5

o. Alcohol swabs

p. Intravenous cannula 14g x 5

q. Intravenous cannula 16g x 5

r. Intravenous cannula 18g x 5

s. Large 12gauge cannula for needle decompression or needle cricothyroidotomy x 2

t. Tourniquet

u. Opsite to secure IV

v. Giving Set x 2

w. Normal Saline 1000ml x 6


SECTION ONE

51

x. Tape zinc oxide leucoplast 1cm width x 1 roll

y. Oxy Viva or manual suction

z. Methoxyfl uorane analgesic whistle x 2

aa. Medical Offi cers are responsible for the provision of:

i. Morphine/ Narcotic analgesics

ii. Midazolam

iii. Maxolon

iv. Other drugs as required

1.19.7 Drug Testing Room

A drug testing room must be provided whenever required in accordance with the provisions of the NRL Anti-Doping Rules and, further, be equipped as required by Appendix 2 to those Rules.

1.19.8 Intravenous Hydration/Rehydration

The practice of intravenous hydration treatment prior to a match, or intravenous rehydration treatment during the course of a match for performance enhancement, is not permitted. Any player requiring intravenous infusions for a genuine medical reason either before, during, or after a match must not participate in any NRL match for a period of at least 24 hours following such treatment.




1.20 NATIONAL ANTHEM

1.20.1 Clubs wishing to play the National Anthem at their Home Venue prior to the NRL match, must make provision to do so in the Match Day Running Sheet before the players take the fi eld.

1.20.2 At NRL controlled major events (including but not limited to Double Header, Final Series and the Grand Final) the National Anthem may be factored into the Match Day Running Sheet before or after the players take the fi eld at the NRL’s discretion.

1.20.3 At major events, should the Anthem be played after players take the fi eld, all players and offi cials on the fi eld, in the bench area, or the players enclosure, should stand and show respect for the Anthem until it has been completed.

1.20.4 The National Anthem, if played, is to be a high quality rendition no longer than two (2) minutes in duration. It is to begin on schedule and may be performed live or a recorded performance.

1.20.5 Approval to conduct any pre-match ceremonial or cultural performances (e.g. Haka, celebrity kick-off, etc.) must be sought in writing from the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) and approved before such performances shall be permitted. The NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) may either grant or refuse such approval in his absolute discretion but, if approved, such performances must be factored into the Match Day Running Sheet.


SECTION ONE

53

1.21 PLAN OF FIELD



1.22 PLAYER EQUIPMENT

1.22.1 Player Equipment

a. A Player must not wear any item that might prove dangerous to other Players. If in doubt a player is required to have any such item approved by the referee prior to the commencement of the match.

b. A Player’s normal gear shall consist of a jersey of distinctive colour and/or pattern (numbered), a pair of shorts, socks of distinctive colour and/or pattern and studded boots or shoes.

c. Protective equipment may be worn provided it contains nothing of a rigid nature.

Notes: Protective clothing above refers to shoulder pads, arm bands, rib covering, head gear, hip pads etc., and the key phrase is “of a rigid nature”.

The referee will make a fi nal decision in areas of doubt relating to what is “rigid”.

1.22.2 Dangerous Equipment

a. The referee may order a Player to remove any item or any part of his equipment which might be considered dangerous and shall not allow the Player to take any further part in the match until the item or equipment is removed.

b. Such a Player must retire from the playing fi eld to remove the offending item if the start or re-start of the match would otherwise be delayed.

c. The referee or touch judge should check all equipment prior to the commencement of each NRL match.


SECTION ONE

55

1.22.3 Studs

Studs on boots or shoes must be no less than 8mm diameter at the apex and, if made of metal, must have rounded edges.

1.22.4 Apparel

a. The playing jersey should be tucked inside the top of the shorts and remain tucked in throughout the match. This means that extra short jerseys or those cut above the waist are prohibited.

b. Jerseys must be of a type, style, and fabric as approved by the NRL.

c. The use of gloves or mittens is prohibited.

d. Compression or other undergarments may be worn subject to the provisions of Section 7: Licensing Guidelines.

e. Identifi cation on any head gear (other than one manufacturer logo on the exposed side) is prohibited. The dimension of any such logo is not to exceed 50cm2 .



f. Identifi cation of manufacturer on non standard apparel or protective equipment (other than head gear) is prohibited.

g. Any items of non-standard or modifi ed equipment must fi rst be approved for use by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) before that item may be used by a player in a match.


SECTION ONE

57

1.23 PLAYER FACILITIES

1.23.1 The following facilities should be provided for Players.

a. Dressing rooms (Home & Visiting Teams). The room for the visiting team must be clean and available for the exclusive use of that club at least 90 minutes prior to the scheduled kick-off time.

b. Lockable storage area for personal belongings and an area for Players to change in.

c. At least six (6) showers per dressing room.

d. At least four (4) urinals and at least two (2) toilets per dressing room.

e. At least three (3) rub down tables and three (3) strapping benches per dressing room.

f. Non-slip surfaces in all dressing rooms.

1.23.2 At all times the NRL Club occupying each dressing room is responsible for providing adequate security to safeguard the belongings of Players, equipment of broadcasters, and property of the venue.



1.24 POST-MATCH MEDIA CONFERENCE

1.24.1 a. At the completion of each NRL match, the head coach of each team and a senior player must attend and genuinely participate in the post-match media conference.

b. The NRL post-match media conference is scheduled to start 15 minutes after the completion of play.

c. At all NRL matches, the head coach and a senior player from the visiting team will be the fi rst to attend the post-match press conference.

d. The head coach and a senior player from the home team are to follow as soon as possible after the completion of the visiting team media conference.

e. The home team media manager (or the person designated to perform that person’s duties on match day) is responsible for coordinating the post-match media conferences, including liaising with the visiting team.

f. The NRL Ground Manager is there to assist in this process if his other duties permit.

g. Should a club fail to attend the media conference, the club may be issued with a breach notice imposing an appropriate penalty.

1.24.2 a. Each home team media offi cer will be given an allocation of four media bibs which will be marked Under 20’s

b. These bibs will be for print media only and will give sideline access at the conclusion of the NYC game subject to the discretion of each Club media offi cer in terms of individual player availability.


SECTION ONE

59

c. The bib will not provide access to the playing fi eld (ie beyond the sideline) but will allow media to interview players as they leave the arena and to wait outside the NYC team dressing room to request individual interviews. If this is a shared entry with the NRL team dressing room, the media representative will wait at a point designated by the club media representative.

d. The bib is not issued to any media representative as a basis for accessing the NRL squad or coaches.

e. A breach of these conditions will lead to that media representative being refused any further access.

f. Should all media require access to the NYC coaches and players in a more formal press conference, then it will be staged following the NRL game if possible.

1.24.3 Provisions for the media conference facilities are outlined in 1.26.1(b).



1.25 PRE MATCH TRAINING AND WARM UP FACILITIES

1.25.1 Pre Match Training

As pre-game access to NRL venues is often not controlled by the home club, it is the responsibility of the visiting club to pre arrange access to a suitable training venue should one be required.

1.25.2 Warm Up Facilities

a. All Clubs are entitled to warm-up on the fi eld of play if they elect to do so (subject to the completion of any preliminary matches and the requirements of point c. below). Venues with separate warm-up areas available as an optional alternative to each competing team should ensure such areas are safe, secure, and suitable for warm-up purposes as detailed in point b. below.

b. Suitable warm up areas must include the following:

i. Appropriate lighting.

ii. Close proximity to dressing rooms.

iii. Access without crossing main roads.

iv. Fencing or rope to prevent possible injuries to children, Players etc.

v. Even grassed surface.

vi. Security if it is necessary to move through spectators.


SECTION ONE

61

c. Should any team decide to warm-up on the fi eld of play they will be restricted to the area between the 20 metre line and dead ball line. If available, the area immediately behind the dead ball line can also be used.

d. Both teams must return to the dressing room at least two (2) minutes prior to the two minute warning alarm as per the Match Day Time Schedule (1.16.2c).



1.26 PRINT MEDIA FACILITIES

1.26.1 The following facilities should be provided for the print media:

a. A working area, under cover, for at least ten (10) journalists with the following facilities.

i. One (1) power point per position.

ii. Minimum of one (1) television monitor with a live feed of the Host Broadcaster’s match telecast.

iii. Reasonable catering.

b. A post-match media conference area for up to 20 people containing:

i. A head table to seat 3-4 people.

ii. A Club backdrop which may feature the Club logo and / or the logo of the Club major sponsor but which must include the Telstra Premiership Logo. The Telstra Premiership Logo shall appear within the camera arc and be of a size that is clearly visible and must be at least on a one in four ratio compared with the total number of logos on the backdrop.

iii. Clearly defi ned access points for media and interviewees.

iv. Security to prevent unauthorised access.


SECTION ONE

63

1.26.2 A review of Media facilities also proposes that each Club should work to reach the following additional standard:

a. All working areas to be located on or close to the halfway line.

b. All working areas to be enclosed and sound insulated.

c. Work benches for a minimum ten (10) journalists with power and phone access.

d. Each press area should have provision for adjacent overfl ow seating of ten (10) persons.

e. Phone lines and media positions within the media area should be clearly identifi ed.

f. Security arrangements should be in place to protect equipment during post-match media conferences.

g. Journalists should have access to the work area for fi ling purposes for at least three (3) hours following full-time.

h. The media should have access to parking provided they have advised the club in advance of their attendance.

i. A separate photographers area should be provided at each ground which has: access to phone lines, a television monitor and access to catering.



1.27 PRIZE MONEY

1.27.1 Prize money payable to any Club participating in the NRL Finals Series, including any prize money for the Minor Premiership, shall be as determined by the NRL Board. Subject to the other provisions of the NRL Rules (including any other Schedules or Provisions to the NRL Rules allowing for the deduction of fi nes or other sums of money from prize money) any prize money won by a Club will be paid by the NRL no later than 31 December in the year in which it is won.

1.27.2 No prizemoney is payable in the NYC.


SECTION ONE

65

1.28 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

1.28.1 Clubs must use a standard format in announcing attendance fi gures for all matches. Only two (2) ticket categories should be used in making attendance announcements.

a. Tickets sold, together with complimentary and honorary tickets used.b. Members tickets and miscellaneous.

1.28.2 The fi nal attendance fi gure must be announced over the public address system before the completion of the match.

1.28.3 Accurate attendance fi gures must be reported at all times.

1.28.4 No public announcements are permitted whilst a player is preparing, or in the process of, kicking for goal.

1.28.5 No public announcements are permitted in relation to decisions or the performance of Referees and other match offi cials.

1.28.6 No public announcements are permitted which anticipate or pre-empt the decisions of the Video Referee.

1.28.7 No public announcements are permitted which may be considered derogatory to any Club, Player, offi cial or spectator.

1.28.8 Any Club wishing to address the crowd for purposes other than normal match day announcements (e.g. political addresses, special awards or presentations, etc.) must fi rst obtain the written permission of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).



1.28.9 Clubs must at all times co-operate with any reasonable requests from television broadcasters regarding the volume and/or frequency of public announcements. This particularly applies whilst the broadcaster is recording or conducting pre match, half time, and full time previews, summaries, and interviews. For the avoidance of doubt this provision does not require Clubs to cease announcements or forego any commercial commitments, it merely requires a genuine level of co-operation and fl exibility to ensure the needs of both the Club and the broadcaster are reasonably satisfi ed.


SECTION ONE

67

1.29 Public Facilities1.29.1 Public facilities should be provided as follows:

a. Toilet facilities must comply with the Building Code of Australia.

b. Adequate car parking must be provided at each venue.

c. Clubs shall develop a public transport plan to the venue and notify public transport authorities of scheduled matches in advance.

1.29.2 Security and Services

a. Subject to c. below, the Home Club shall provide the following services at all matches:

i. St John Ambulance Service

ii. Ambulance vehicle on stand-by (preferably with Paramedic)

iii. Police

iv. Other private and/or venue security personnel

b. The Home Club at any NRL approved match is responsible for ensuring that adequate general security measures are implemented after consultation with venue management and local Police.

c. The Home Club is also responsible for ensuring that adequate security provisions are in place to prevent the possibility of fi eld invasions by members of the general public either during or after matches until all players, offi cials, and media have safely left the playing area.

d. Any costs incurred by engaging private/venue security or ‘user pays’ Police personnel (either within the venue or the surrounding area as determined by the Police) must be met by the Home Club.

e. In the case of NRL major events (e.g. Finals Series) the NRL will be responsible for meeting any costs as described above.



1.29.3 Disabled facilities including the following must be provided at each venue:

a. Parking

b. Toilets (minimum four (4) toilets within the Stadium in close proximity to the seating area)

c. Seating (minimum of ten (10) under cover positions)

d. Designated coach parking

e. Designated taxi pick up and drop off point

1.29.4 A scoreboard and Match Clock must be provided and display the following information at all times. However at venues where the video screen is also used as the scoreboard and match clock, this information must be removed while video referee replays and decisions are being displayed:

a. Names of teams

b. Score of each team

c. Match time remaining

1.29.5 Advertising content, promotional material, or any other insertions to venue video screens may only be displayed during breaks in play after any broadcaster replays of major incidents (eg. tries, controversial rulings, etc.) have been shown for the benefi t of patrons at the venue.


SECTION ONE

69

1.30 Qualifi cations for NYC Finals

1.30.1 The following qualifi cation requirements apply to NYC players:

a. Participated - means that the player was nominated in the starting team (1 -17) at the commencement of the game whether the player takes the fi eld or not.

b. i. Level One – NRL Competition

ii. Level Two – NYC, NSW Cup and QLD Cup

1.30.2 a. A player will qualify for each Level by having participated in the majority of games throughout the season in either of these two Levels.

b. To be eligible to play in a Match in the NYC in any season, a player must have been under the age of 20 years at midnight on 31st day of December in the preceding year.

c. A player who has qualifi ed in Level Two will still be eligible to play in the Level One Final Series if selected.

d. A Level One qualifi ed player will not be eligible to participate in a Level Two Final Series unless he has failed to gain selection in the Level One team that is playing on the same weekend.

e. A Level One qualifi ed player who has failed to gain selection in the Telstra Premiership Finals Series and is playing in a Level Two Competition Final Series will be required to have participated in two matches throughout the Level Two Competition’s Final Series to be eligible to continue playing in that Final Series therefore eliminating any of the previous eligibility rules except the age qualifi cation in relation to the Toyota Cup.

In the case of a Competition having a Final 5 structure and the Minor Premiers progressing straight to the Grand Final after the second week, a player will be entitled to compete in the Grand Final if he has played one game in that Level Two Final Series.



f. A player will not be eligible to play in two Levels of the Final Series scheduled on the same weekend, other than where the Level Two team has played earlier than the Level One Team on that weekend of the Final Series and due to extenuating circumstances (last minute player withdrawal), then a Level Two player will be eligible to play in the Level One game. (refer to 1.30.2c.)

g. If a player nominated in his Club’s Top 25 NRL squad has participated in less then 5 games throughout the season in any of the Competitions mentioned above, the player will be required to have played in at least one Level Two Competition game before being eligible to participate in any of the Final Series of that Competition subject to age and registration requirements.

h. If a player has participated in an equal amount of matches in Level One or Level Two Competitions at the conclusion of the regular season, the player will then qualify for the Level Two Final Series and therefore be eligible to play in the Level One Final Series. (1.30.2c.)

i. Each Club with a team engaged in the Final Series in either Level shall lodge with the NRL, NSWRL and QRL a list of players whom they consider to be eligible to play in each Level by no later than 5.00pm on the Tuesday following the conclusion of the last Premiership Round.


SECTION ONE

71

1.31 Radio Media Facilities

1.31.1 The following facilities must be provided for radio media:

a. A minimum of three (3) radio broadcast boxes per venue to fi t two (2) persons each in the front row. There should be further room to seat at least two (2) other persons (technical support or other commentators) at the rear of the box.

b. All communication equipment and production is the responsibility of the broadcaster.

c. Television monitor.

1.31.2 A review of Media facilities also proposes that each club should work to reach the following additional standard:

a. Boxes to be enlarged to three (3) persons wide and three to four (3-4) persons deep.

b. Boxes to be sound-proofed.

c. Monitors to be set towards the ceiling where possible to avoid interference with technical equipment.

d. At least two (2) double power-points should be available in each box.

e. Access to parking for a technician, three (3) presenters and one (1) sideline-eye.



1.32 Referees Facilities

1.32.1 The following facilities must be provided for referees:

a. Exclusive Video Referee’s replay box including seating for two (2) people (not to be located beside coach’s boxes). All communications equipment will be provided by the NRL, or the host broadcaster. The box is to be fully enclosed and as close to the half way mark as possible.

b. Separate and secure change room

c. At least two (2) toilets, one (1) shower and one (1) rub down table per change room.

d. Lockable storage space within each change room.

e. Ten (10) reserved seats in grandstand separate to the referees replay box.

1.32.2 Referees Security

a. In NRL and NYC matches the Home Club is responsible for providing adequate security for the Referees dressing room to safeguard the belongings of Referees.

b. In NRL matches a police or security guard escort must be provided to the Referee and Touch Judges for their exit from the fi eld at both half time and full time.

c. After the completion of NRL matches a police or security guard escort must be provided for match offi cials from the Referee’s dressing room to their vehicles after the match.

d. For NRL matches at least two (2) parking spaces are to be made available for the NRL Match Referees as near as possible to the dressing room area, so that the necessity to move through public thoroughfares is kept to an absolute minimum. Where possible parking for other NRL match offi cials should be provided in the same area.


SECTION ONE

73

e. The Home Club must provide security personnel to escort the video referee to and from the video referee box and the referees dressing room at both half-time and full-time at every NRL match.

f. Under no circumstances are match offi cials to be approached, questioned, or harassed in any way by Club Offi cials either during, or after a match.



1.33 REPLACEMENTS (INTERCHANGE)

1.33.1 An interchange is the replacement of one (1) player in a team for another during the match.

1.33.2 Only thirteen (13) players from each team may be on the fi eld of play at any one time.

1.33.3 Each team must list four (4) players as Interchange players on the offi cial team list.

1.33.4 A limited interchange system is used in the NRL Competition. Each team may use up to a maximum of ten (10) interchanges in ordinary time during a match.

1.33.5 In matches that extend into extra time, an additional two (2) interchanges will be permitted for each team making a total of twelve (12) interchanges in these matches. Any unused interchanges of the ten (10) permissible during ordinary time may also be utilised during extra time.

1.33.6 A replaced Player must have left the fi eld of play prior to the interchange Player taking his place on the fi eld.

1.33.7 If a team elects to interchange a bleeding Player who leaves the fi eld, this interchange will be included for the purposes of calculating the number of interchanges pursuant to 1.33.4.

1.33.8 Fouled Player

(a) If a Player is fouled by an opponent who is in consequence dismissed from the fi eld, or placed on report and the fouled Player is caused to leave the fi eld as a direct result of an injury sustained in that incident, this interchange will not be included for the purposes of calculating the number of interchanges pursuant to 1.33.4 provided that it is made without delay and, in any case, by the time the referee has acted on the incident.

(b) Also, the subsequent interchange of the team of the fouled player will not be included for the purposes of calculating the number of interchanges pursuant to 1.33.4.


SECTION ONE

75

1.33.9 An Interchange Offi cial will be appointed by the NRL to manage the interchange process for each team, however he will not be responsible for ensuring Clubs comply with these provisions. In proceedings with respect to any breach by a Club of these provisions, it will not be a defence to that breach to assert or maintain that the Interchange Offi cial gave a particular direction or that he erred in some way.

1.33.10 Should an Interchange Offi cial become aware of a breach of these Replacement / Interchange Provisions, he should inform the nearest touch judge and the NRL Ground Manager at the fi rst opportunity, and submit a written report to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) by 9:00am on the fi rst business day following the match.

1.33.11 Each Club will be responsible for ensuring compliance with these Replacement / Interchange Provisions at all times.

1.33.12 Interchange Process

a. Except for scrums (which are dealt with in b. below), Interchanges may occur during general play (i.e. whilst the ball is in motion), after any scoring has been completed or if play has been temporarily suspended by the referee (e.g. injury or caution).

b. In the case of scrums:

i. Interchanges will only be permitted at scrums resulting from a touch line stoppage (i.e. a kick fi nds touch, or a player is tackled into touch), provided that the interchange player is already with the interchange offi cial waiting to go on when the ball or the player crosses the touch line. Trainers will still be responsible for getting the player being replaced off the fi eld before the interchange player can go on. The referee will not call a time-out or delay the recommencement to allow the interchange to take place.

ii. Otherwise, Interchanges must not be made after the referee has ordered a scrum until after the scrum has been completed (the referee may use his discretion to allow a seriously injured or bleeding player to be interchanged). The Player leaving the fi eld may do so at any time, but a Player cannot enter the fi eld until the ball emerges from the scrum.



c. At the start of the season each team will be provided with a set of offi cial interchange cards numbered 1-10 (plus free interchange cards, one red for fouled player and one green for subsequent free interchange) incorporating the team logo. Clubs are to hand the Green card to the interchange offi cial prior to the commencement of the match.

d. It will be the responsibility of each Club to have these cards available for use during all matches.

e. Immediately before the commencement of the match an offi cial from each Club should remove the interchange cards from the folder and retain the cards on the bench for use during the match. The empty folder must be handed to the Interchange Offi cial so the cards can be replaced in the folder as each interchange is affected and returned to the Club at the completion of the match.

f. As each interchange is to be made, the interchange player must report to the interchange offi cial with an interchange card in sequential ascending numerical order (i.e. 1st interchange will hand over No. 1, 2nd interchange will hand over No. 2, etc. The last interchange player will hand over No. 10) for presentation to the interchange offi cial. If a ‘free’ interchange is permitted under Rule 1.33.8(a) the interchange player must present the red free interchange card to the interchange offi cial. The interchange offi cial will them provide a green free interchange card to the fouled players bench for use by the next interchanged player. In all cases it is the interchange player who must personally present the card to the interchange offi cial (i.e. Trainers are not permitted to carry or present the card on behalf of a player).

g. The interchange Player must retain possession of the card until the Interchange Offi cial approves his entry onto the fi eld of play by taking the card from him after the replaced player has left the fi eld of play. The acceptance by the interchange offi cial of the card provides the only valid authorisation for the player to take the fi eld. Unless and until the interchange offi cial accepts the card, the interchange player will not have approval to enter the fi eld of play and must not attempt to do so. Interchange players must not under any circumstances pressure


SECTION ONE

77

the Interchange Offi cial to take the card, irrespective of whether the replaced player has already left the fi eld of play.

An interchange for the purposes of these Rules will be taken to have occurred (and counted for the purposes of calculating the Team’s total interchanges) once the card is accepted by the interchange offi cial, even if the interchange player’s Team then decides not to proceed with the interchange with the consequence that the interchange player does not take the fi eld of play.

h. If a player reports to the Interchange Offi cial without a card, he will be sent back to the bench to obtain a card before the interchange will be allowed to proceed.

i. The Interchange Offi cial will retain all cards until the end of the match to indicate the number of interchanges used by each team. Cards will then be returned to each Club.

j. Only offi cial interchange cards issued by the NRL may be used for the purposes of interchange. If a team loses or damages their cards, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) must be contacted and requested to issue replacement cards.

k. An interchange Player must enter the fi eld in an on-side position after reporting to the Interchange Offi cial and after receiving the approval of the Interchange Offi cial to enter the fi eld of play and after the replaced player has left the fi eld of play.

l. A maximum of two (2) interchange Players can report to the Interchange Offi cial at any one time. Other players must remain on the bench until the two interchanges being managed by the Interchange Offi cial have been affected.

m. In matches that go into extra time, the Interchange Offi cial must hand back the interchange cards numbered 1 & 2 to each Club so that these cards can be used for the additional interchanges permitted during extra time. Any unused cards from regular time must be used fi rst before the 1 & 2 numbers are utilized.



1.34.4 All Club requests and/or enquiries should be directed to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

1.34.5 Under no circumstances are clubs to directly approach broadcasters with scheduling requests unless prior approval is granted by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

1.34 SCHEDULING

1.34.1 A “rolling schedule (detailed below)” will be published by the NRL each week. Where possible, Club preferences will be considered.

1.34.2 Wherever possible NYC matches will preceded NRL matches, if however for any reason an alternate venue is required the home club will be responsible for organisation of this stand-alone match after approval from the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

1.34.3 In all cases, scheduling is at the discretion of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) in consultation with broadcasters as required under broadcasting agreements.

Date Rounds Selected

In advance Weeks fi nalised

1,2,3,4,5 5 weeks 1-5

After week 1 6,7 6 weeks 2-7






After week 7 18 11 weeks 8-18

After week 8 None 10 weeks 9-18
















SECTION ONE

79

1.35 SELECTION OF TEAMS

1.35.1 Clubs are to provide Team Lists for NRL and NYC for ‘Big League’, the offi cial programme of the National Rugby League. This information is to be entered into the Club Network System provided by the NRL, who will be responsible for forwarding this information to “Big League”.

1.35.2 The completed data entered must contain the Player’s given and surname and number. The team information must be entered by NOT LATER THAN 6.00 PM on the TUESDAY prior to each match.

Note: Under no circumstances will Team details be accepted over the telephone, by Fax, or email.

1.35.3 Team Sheet information must be completed in full. All seventeen (17) players must be named and numbered when submitted (i.e. blank spaces or TBA, etc are not acceptable).



1.36 SIDELINE AREA AND BENCH LOCATIONS

1.36.1 Both the Home and Visiting Team benches must be on the main broadcasting side of the fi eld unless otherwise approved by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

1.36.2 Where team benches are located within the playing area (i.e. inside the fence) the following provisions must be adhered to:

a. Twelve (12) chairs (maximum) to be provided for each team and placed parallel to the touch line. These chairs should be of a resilient nature with shortened legs in order that spectator’s views are not impeded and located as near to the 50m line as possible.

b. Personnel on the bench may comprise only those people directly related to the conduct of the match itself (i.e. Coaches, Interchange players, Trainers, Team Manager, Medical Offi cer’s etc). There can be no more than twelve (12) persons on the bench from each team.

c. Under no circumstances will “barracking” or “abuse” from the bench be permitted. This not only refers to abuse, but also to what might be described as offering advice or assistance to the match offi cials in relation to their performance or how they should be carrying out their duties.

d. The NRL Ground Manager may request any person on the bench to leave the bench area and may name that person in his Match Report. Breaches in this area may not only incur a fi nancial Penalty on the Club concerned, but may also result in a suspension of playing area access privileges for individual offenders. Such suspension may not only be for the remainder of that match, but also for a number of future matches to be determined by the NRL.


SECTION ONE

81

e. Players and offi cials on the bench must at all times remain at the bench allocated to their team (except for player warm-ups). Any player(s) warming up must remain behind the red media line so they cannot inadvertently become involved in play. Whilst offi cials are not expected to sit during the entire match, they must not leave this immediate area or approach the fi eld of play under any circumstances.

f. No player or players may temporarily leave the fi eld of play and subsequently re-enter the fi eld of play without the permission of the referee or a touch judge.

g. Under no circumstances, is a suspended Player permitted on the sideline or bench area (see 1.38.1).

h. A player who is temporarily suspended (i.e. sin binned) must immediately retire to the dressing room until his period of temporary suspension has expired.

1.36.3 No members of the general public or any other unauthorised persons are permitted within the playing area (i.e. inside the fence surrounding the fi eld of play) without the prior approval of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).



1.37 STANDARD EQUIPMENT & SERVICES

1.37.1 The following equipment and services must be provided at all NRL Venues:

a. Corner posts (plus spares) of a type approved by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee). Corner post pads may be no wider than the width of the touch line in compliance with section 1.13.4(a).

b. Goal post pads: of a design and material approved by NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) to a maximum width and depth of 50cm to ensure that the pads do not become more of an obstruction than necessary to ensure player safety.

c. Goal post -Must be white in colour and meet the following dimensions:

Height – 16m (minimum)

Width – 5.5m

Cross Bar -Must be white in colour with a black centre indicator displaying the NRL sponsors logos.

Height – 3m

d. Goal posts are not to carry any signage or advertising (including fl ags

on uprights) unless approved by the NRL.

e. Field security


SECTION ONE

83

f. Police

g. Sand or soil bins - safely positioned on both sides of the ground

1.37.2 The following shall apply to the corner post;

a. If a ball carrier makes contact with the corner post he will not be deemed to be out of play unless any part of his body has made contact with either the touch line or touch-in-goal line, or the ground beyond the touch line or touch-in-goal line.

b. If the ball is not in possession of a player and it makes contact with the corner post (e.g. from a kick) the ball will be deemed to be touch-in-goal as per the existing rule. All other rules relating to the corner post and restarts of play remain unchanged.

1.37.3 A kicking tee may be used provided it is a product which has been offi cially approved by the NRL and is commercially available for purchase. Such tees may be used for kicks at goal and starts or restarts of play from the 50m line.

1.37.4 If sand buckets are taken on to the fi eld of play, they are to be made of pliable plastic and must be of a size and shape no larger than a standard “golf style” sand bucket. Oversize buckets intended to provide a tactical advantage for kickers are not permitted.

1.37.5 No item of equipment (excluding approved medical supplies and players equipment) may be taken onto the fi eld of play without the prior written approval of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).



1.38 SUSPENDED PLAYERS

1.38.1 Any Player who is suspended from playing in a match or matches pursuant to the provisions of the NRL Judiciary Code of Procedure, the NRL Anti-Doping Rules or any other Schedule to the NRL Rules shall not participate as a Player in the NRL Competitions and/or the Related Competitions (as defi ned by the NRL Rules) until that suspension has been served and must not enter the playing fi eld or area inside the fence prior to, during or after a match.

1.38.2 Any Player who is suspended or disqualifi ed from playing rugby league by a disciplinary body with usual authority to make such determinations in relation to:

a. The ARL Competitions (as defi ned by the NRL Rules);

b. The Other Competitions (as defi ned by the NRL Rules); or

c. Any other competition conducted by a member, affi liate or honorary member of the Rugby League International Federation;

shall not participate as a Player in the NRL Competition or the Related Competitions (as defi ned by the NRL Rules) until that suspension has been served or that disqualifi cation has expired, as the case may be, and must not enter the playing fi eld or area inside the fence prior to, during or after a match.

1.38.3 A Player suspended for a period of four (4) matches or more (whether within the meaning of 1.38.1 or 1.38.2) must not, without the prior written approval of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) participate in any promotional activity on behalf of any Club or the NRL.


SECTION ONE

85

1.38.4 For the purposes of 1.38.3, a “promotional activity” includes, but is not limited, to:

a. Acting in a development offi cer, marketing or promotional role.

b. Conducting coaching clinics.

c. Attending coaching camps, sports training camps or similar.

d. Visiting schools or junior Clubs in any promotional, coaching or speaking engagement/activity.

1.38.5 A suspended Player (whether within the meaning of 1.38.1 or 1.38.2) may continue to train with his Club during the period of his suspension to ensure he retains fi tness levels and use the coaching staff to assist him with technique correction and/or with medical monitoring.



1.39 TEAM CHANGES MATCH DAY

1.39.1 Each Club’s fi nal Team listing must be given to the NRL Ground Manager one hour prior to the advertised kick off time.

1.39.2 The NRL Ground Manager will then distribute copies to all relevant parties as soon as possible.

1.39.3 Team list books are available from the NRL offi ce and contain fi ve (5) carbonised copies. A sample copy of the Team List Sheet is provided at the end of this section (Attachment A).

1.39.4 Any changes which are to be made to the Player jersey numbers listed in the ‘Big League’ programme are to be notifi ed to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) prior to match day. Clubs are responsible for ensuring that all players take the fi eld with the jersey number indicated on the Team Sheet.

1.39.5 Players must enter the fi eld and start the match as indicated on the Team List. Those listed as interchange players must start the match on the interchange bench subject to the provisions of 1.39.6 below.

1.39.6 In respect to the withdrawal of a Player after the fi nalisation of the NRL Teams, the following procedures will apply:

a. If a Player is nominated at the correct time (60 minutes prior) but subsequently becomes ill or is injured prior to the Team taking the fi eld, then the illness or injury is to be reported to the NRL Ground Manager.


SECTION ONE

87

b. The NRL Ground Manager will consult with the Team Medical Offi cer and the Medical Offi cer of the opposing Club. The opposing Team Medical Offi cer has the right to examine the Player if he so wishes.

c. If both doctors agree that the Player is unfi t to participate in the match, he may be withdrawn without penalty and a substitute can be added to the 17 man squad. If he is only deemed unwell temporarily and cannot start the match, he may be substituted with a bench player provided the opposition Team Medical Offi cer agrees.

d. If a substitute Player is required, the NRL Ground Manager will notify the media, and ground announcer advising them of the reasons for the Players withdrawal.

e. The above process must be observed in all circumstances even if this means a Team taking the fi eld with twelve (12) Players until the Medical Offi cers and NRL Ground Manager have authorised a change to the starting 17 Players or an interchange Player joins the match after kick-off. Teams must not delay entering the fi eld under any circumstances.

f. This rule cannot be used in the case of a player who is carrying an existing injury or illness and the coach wants to give him until the last minute to make a decision on his fi tness to play.



1.40 TELEVISION MEDIA FACILITIES

1.40.1 The following facilities must be provided for television media:

a. A main commentary box for at least eight (8) people for use by the Host Broadcaster with telephone and power (minimum of four (4) power jacks).

b. A secondary commentary / studio box for at least three (3) people to be used by a secondary broadcaster.

c. An outside broadcast van area and parking for 15 cars as close as possible to the outside broadcast area.

1.40.2 Please note that the Host Broadcaster at each televised match must have priority over other video providers (e.g., coaching purposes) on television camera decks.

1.40.3 A review of Media facilities also proposes that each club should work to reach the following additional standard:

a. Access to a hosting position adjacent to the broadcasting box.

b. Hosting position to be sound-proofed.

c. All broadcasting positions to be fully enclosed.


SECTION ONE

89

1.41 TICKETING

1.41.1 Ticketing

The following applies to the provision of tickets allocated by Clubs to opposition Teams on match day:

a. Each Home Club will make available up to 120 match tickets for the visiting Club (40 allocated for NYC players and staff). They maybe used by Players, Players’ partners, Coaching Staff, Team offi cials and others as determined by the Visiting Club.

b. If the Visiting Club requires more or less than 120 tickets, this is a matter for direct negotiations between the two Clubs.

c. The home Club may issue tickets for its own Players, Players’ partners, Coaching Staff, Team offi cials and others at its discretion.

d. Clubs must admit any person holding an NRL approved pass to matches subject to the terms and conditions printed on the passes.

e. Clubs will also be required to reserve a maximum of ten (10) reserved seats for match referees, touch judges, referees coaches etc.

1.41.2 Season Passes

a. The NRL will provide clubs with a supply of season passes for children who participate in any regular Rugby League competition, coach’s passes for school and Junior Club coaches. The NRL will directly provide access passes for Club Offi cials, Players, Referees, Media and League personnel.



b. It is a requirement that each Club accepts these passes for admission to matches subject to the terms and conditions printed on the passes.

c. Gold Passes and Green Player / Offi cial passes are issued for the use of authorized personnel only and are non transferable. Use of these cards by unauthorized persons may result in confi scation at the turnstiles.

d. If a Club is considering not admitting NRL season passes for a particular match due to limited venue capacity, approval must fi rst be obtained from the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee). Should approval be granted, an appropriate media strategy must be agreed so that non-acceptance of the passes is publicised as widely as possible.

e. A sample of all passes will be provided to each Club (Attachment H).

1.41.3 Major Events

Refer Section 8


SECTION ONE

91

1.42 TIME KEEPING

1.42.1 At all NRL/NYC matches, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will appoint an offi cial time keeper(s).

1.42.2 Should the NRL appointed time keeper be unable to undertake or complete his duties on match day for any reason, the NRL Ground Manager will appoint a substitute time keeper for that match.

1.42.3 The NRL will appoint a time keeper for NRL and NYC matches only. Time keeping for any preliminary matches will remain the responsibility of the Home Club or as otherwise determined by the relevant governing league.

1.42.4 Match Clocks

a. Match clocks should be of an approved type showing second hand if analogue or indicating seconds if digital.

b. A back up system should also be available at all NRL Venues.

1.42.5 Offi cial Match Time

The offi cial match time shall be the time controlled directly by the offi cial timekeepers. It should be noted that the match clock on display at the venue, and/or the time displayed by the host broadcaster on the video screen, do not necessarily accurately represent the offi cial match time. All decisions of the offi cial time keeper(s) shall be fi nal and not open to review or appeal unless the NRL Director of Football, at his absolute discretion, so determines.



1.42.6 Sin Bin Operators

a. Visiting Clubs must nominate their personnel for timing of “temporary suspensions” and make themselves known to the home Club nominee and NRL Ground Manager prior to the start of the match.

b. If a visiting club does not nominate anyone for this purpose they must accept the timing of the Home team sin bin operator.

c. Operators must be provided with time pieces displaying minutes and seconds by their Clubs.

1.42.7 Temporarily Suspended Players

a. Players sent from the fi eld for a ten (10) minute temporary suspension must return to a dressing room on the host broadcaster side of the fi eld so the period of temporary suspension can be monitored by the sin bin operator(s). The dismissed Player(s) will be called into the tunnel with two (2) minutes remaining of their suspension but cannot enter the playing area until indicated by the timekeepers.

b. Time of suspension begins only when the referee restarts play or indicates time on. If more than one Player is temporarily suspended in relation to the same incident, the ten minute periods commence at the same time and the Players will return to the fi eld together.

c. Players must enter the fi eld of play from an onside position.

1.42.8 Lapsed Playing Time

The lapsed playing time for the purposes of temporary suspension does not include time off and half time (i.e. the ten minutes is the actual time that the ball is in play).


SECTION ONE

93

1.42.9 Timekeeping in relation to Referees

a. When a match is in progress it is important that playing time is kept correctly by the offi cial timekeepers. Time clocks should be visible to offi cials, Players and patrons.

b. When a referee starts play, he will blow his whistle and indicate with one arm above his head and order the ball to be kicked off.

c. If, for any reason (e.g., an injury or caution), the referee orders time off by indicating with both arms above his head, vertical to his body, timekeepers must immediately stop their watches and time clocks.

d. When play is to recommence, the referee will indicate by waving one arm over his head. Timekeepers must recommence stop watches immediately. This procedure is to be carried out throughout the match.

e. When a Referee blows his whistle & signals that he requires a decision from the video referee, the timekeepers must immediately stop their watches & time clocks while the decision is being determined. Time will recommence immediately the referee blows his whistle to indicate the decision of the video referee.

f. Timekeepers must have at least two stop watches each when keeping time. On occasions, time clocks break down and it is essential that timekeepers have the matter under control by the manual use of their stop watches.

Note: If a NRL Ground Manager notices that the referee forgets to order time on or time off, he is to bring the matter to the notice of timekeepers immediately and, at an appropriate time, the referee.



1.42.10 Continue to Sound Siren

a. At the completion of each half, the time keeper(s) must continue to sound the siren until such time as the match referee signals that he has heard it by raising his arm above his head. referee will indicate a cessation (after the hooter is blown) by blowing his whistle and waving both his arms across his body.

1.42.11 Siren Fails to Sound

a. If the venue siren fails to operate, the timekeeper must use the standby air horn issued to him. If for any reason the referee cannot hear the siren, the timekeeper must immediately alert the video referee who will verbally advise the referee to end the play.

1.42.12 End of Play

a. In all cases the match referee will be the sole judge of when play shall cease after the half or full-time siren has sounded.

b. The match referee may extend the match to award a penalty or to complete the play currently underway at his discretion.


SECTION ONE

95

1.43 TRAINERS ROLES / TREATMENT OF INJURED PLAYERS

1.43.1 Each team may engage and use a maximum of three trainers during matches. In no case shall the Head Coach of a club act as a Trainer in any match.

1.43.2 In all cases when trainers enter the fi eld of play to either attend to an injured player, carry water, or deliver individual messages, they must immediately leave the fi eld once their assigned task has been completed and return to the player’s bench. Trainers must remain within the bench area until their team regains possession or until they accompany an interchange player and the interchange offi cial to the touchline in preparation to effect an interchange. There are no other circumstances under which it is permissible for trainers to move away from the bench area.

1.43.3 At all times Trainers must enter and leave the fi eld as quickly as possible (i.e. running) without interfering with play.

1.43.4 Trainers are not permitted on the fi eld during scrums except in the case of a serious injury in which case the Orange Trainer may attend.

1.43.5 The specifi c roles and responsibilities of each trainer are as follows:

a. Orange Trainer - (Medical)

i. Is allowed unlimited access to the playing fi eld to attend to injured Players.

ii. may provide fl uids to Players when his team is in possession of the ball.

ii. Must not carry messages.

iii. Is allowed to be involved in the on-fi eld interchange process whilst his team is in possession of the ball.



b. Yellow Trainer- (Medical assistant)

i. May sit with the Head Trainer but can only enter the fi eld of play as provided in (ii) below and in the following emergencies at the direction of the head trainer;

1. To help the Head Trainer assist an injured Player from the fi eld.

2. To treat an injured Player if there is more than one injured Player and the head trainer is already occupied.

ii. Is not to carry water unless a try (including video referee decisions) has been scored or the two Club doctors of the participating Clubs agree that the extreme weather conditions require each Team to have an additional water carrier. If competing Clubs cannot agree, the NRL Ground Manager will make the fi nal decision on whether additional water carriers are permitted. If agreed, the Yellow trainer’s duties are limited to carrying water when his team is in possession. He cannot carry messages under any circumstances. (See also Extraordinary Weather Conditions 1.10.3.3)

iii. May refi ll drink containers and offer other assistance off the fi eld of play.

iv. Is allowed to be involved in the off-fi eld interchange process (i.e. to assist the NRL Interchange offi cial).

c. Blue Trainer - (Messages)

i. The Blue (Messages) Trainer’s duties are limited to:-

1. Interchange of Players.

2. Provision of water.

3. Carrying messages to individual Team members.


SECTION ONE

97

ii. Is allowed access to the playing fi eld:

1. When his team is in possession.

2. When a try has been scored.

3. While waiting for a Video Referee decision in relation to a try.

4. During a time-out called by the referee for an injury.

5. During a drop out.

iii. Must enter and leave the playing fi eld without interfering with play.

iv. Must not give general messages to the Team or otherwise assist in the task of coaching (save for the carrying of messages to individual Team members) while play is progressing.

1.43.6 Serious Injuries

Only players, match offi cials and registered Trainers are permitted on the fi eld of play while a match is in progress. Should an injury necessitate a doctor coming onto the fi eld, the Head Trainer who carries out the initial assessment is to attract the attention of the nearest Touch Judge who can electronically communicate with the Referee to advise him that the injury is serious. The referee must stop play before a doctor or any other medical assistance can enter the fi eld of play. Under no circumstances is a Trainer to chase the referee to advise him of an injury whilst play is still underway. Any Trainer who attempts to unnecessarily stop play for tactical reasons will not only be liable to Penalty under the provisions of the NRL Rules, but may also be ordered from the playing area for the remainder of the match.

1.43.7 Trainers not to Distract

Trainers must not at any time enter the line of sight of a player when he is attempting a kick for goal, or do anything which may in any way unnecessarily interfere with or distract an opposition player whilst he is participating in the match or constitute some disadvantage to the opposing Team.



1.43.8 Accreditation

a. Orange trainer for NRL and NYC must hold a minimum Level 2 Sports Medicine Australia (SMA) trainers’ accreditation.

b. Yellow and Blue trainers must hold a minimum of at least a Level 1 Sports Medicine Australia (SMA ) or Level 1 or 2 ARL First Aid Offi cer (FAO) certifi cate

c. Any trainer who holds another qualifi cation claimed to be at least equivalent to the minimum requirements, must apply to the NRL Chief Medical Offi cer who will have the sole and fi nal discretion to approve or reject any application for an exemption.

1.43.9 Apparel

a. Trainers shirts must be fl uorescent in colour and comply with the following PMS colour specifi cations;

Orange PMS 804 2X Fluoro

Yellow PMS 803 2X Fluoro

Blue PMS 801 2x Fluoro

b. Branding and sponsorship of trainers clothing must comply with the dimensions specifi ed in the Licensing Provisions - Trainers Apparel Match Environment (Section 7.17).

c. In cases where the NRL deems that there may be a clash of trainer’s colours with either competing team, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) may direct the trainers of both Clubs to swap colours to reduce the possibility of mistaken identity by players, offi cials, or spectators.


SECTION ONE

99

1.43.10 Registration

a. Trainers must be registered with the NRL.

b. Clubs are to lodge Trainer Registration Sheets (Attachment C) with a copy of their current accreditation certifi cate.

c. A trainer will not be registered without the necessary accreditation.

d. Each trainers name is to be recorded on the NRL team list (Attachment A) for each match with the trainers name corresponding with the colour worn on-fi eld.

1.43.11 On-Field Trainer Communication Equipment

a. No Trainers communication equipment is allowed on-fi eld during any match.

1.43.12 Comply with Instructions

a. Trainers must at all times comply with any direction or instruction from match offi cials or NRL Ground Managers. Trainers must not at any time while carrying out their duties make argumentative, disparaging, derogatory, or offensive comments to any match offi cials or NRL Ground Managers.



1.43.13 Limitation of Role

a. Trainers must not become involved in any match, including approaching or having any contact with players, other than in strict compliance with their specifi c role and responsibilities as detailed in Section 1.43 of this Manual.

b. Under no circumstances are trainers permitted to approach or become involved in an altercation or melee involving players from either competing team. This includes not attempting to separate or restrain players who may be attempting to become involved in the incident.



SECTION ONE

101

1.44 VENUES

1.44.1 A Club must

a. Maintain and have the use of a home ground approved by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee). Such approval will not be unreasonably withheld provided that it is reasonable for the NRL to withhold approval if the use of the home ground would undermine NRL scheduling and broadcasting commitments.

b. Ensure that its venue has facilities suitable for the conduct of the NRL Competition, including night lights of the quality required for television broadcast.

c. Ensure that its venue hiring agreements comply with any commitments the Club has to the NRL under its Club Agreement (e.g. availability when scheduled by NRL, signage rights, broadcaster access, etc).

1.44.2 NRL Competition matches may only be played at the approved home venue of each Club.

1.44.3 Any request to play a home match at other than the approved home venue of the applicant Club must be sought from the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) in each instance at least 14 days prior to the day of the relevant match.

1.44.4 Whether or not approval will be granted by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will be based upon the following criteria:

a. The suitability of the proposed venue for broadcast purposes.

b. The suitability of facilities for players, and spectators.



c. Any additional costs associated with ensuring the venue meets NRL requirements, are to be met by the Club and/or match sponsor/promoter.

d. Any additional costs associated with travel and/or accommodation for players, offi cials, NRL contractors, etc are to be met by the Club and/or match sponsor/promoter.

e. Suffi cient notice of the proposed change enabling the NRL Board to consider the request and then provide adequate notifi cation to the media, sponsors, and the general public.

f. Any other factors considered relevant by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

1.44.5 When matches are played at any venue which has a retractable roof, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will determine whether the match should be played with the roof in the open or closed confi guration, and under what circumstances before or during the match the confi guration may be changed.

1.44.6 Lighting for Night Matches

a. A Club will be responsible for providing and paying for television standard lighting for all home matches. This includes matches selected by broadcasters.

b. Ground lighting provided must be to a standard as agreed between the NRL and the Host broadcaster.


SECTION ONE

103

1.45 VIDEO REFEREE

1.45.1 The NRL will appoint a Video Referee to each NRL match. There will be no Video Referee for NYC matches unless otherwise determined by the NRL.

1.45.2 The match referee may, at his discretion, call on the Video Referee to rule on incidents in the fi nal play leading to the scoring of points (i.e. from the previous play-the-ball).

1.45.3 While the Video Referee is deliberating on any decision involving the scoring of a try, the defending team is to remain in the general vicinity of their own in-goal area. At the same time the attacking team is to remain within the area bounded by the goal line and the 20 metre line nearest to where the try is being claimed.

1.45.4 The Video Referee may also be called upon to clarify 40/20 decisions.

1.45.5 If the video referee has access to a replay prior to the restart of a drop out or 20 metre optional kick and he has no doubt the decision is incorrect he may instruct the referee of the correct restart.

1.45.6 The Video Referee may not be called upon to rule on forward passes.

1.45.7 The Video Referee may be used in an advisory capacity to assist the Match Offi cials at his discretion, however in these cases the assistance is purely advisory and the fi nal decision remains with the Match Offi cials.



1.45.8 The Video Referee replays provided by the Broadcaster must be shown on all large video screens as they occur. No advertising or promotional material may be displayed on the screen/s until the decision has been made and notifi ed to the crowd by way of the Video Referee graphics.

1.45.9 If for any reason the video decision is incorrectly displayed on the venue video screen, the match referee will be verbally advised of the correct decision by the Video Referee and he will then implement the decision on the basis of that verbal advice.

1.45.10 Access to the Video Referee booth at each venue is limited to the Video Referee, technical personnel, and approved NRL football staff. No other person is permitted

access without the prior approval of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).


SECTION ONE

105

1.46 VIDEO RECORDING

1.46.1 The NRL has an arrangement whereby all NRL/NYC matches are video recorded for the NRL Judiciary.

1.46.2 Three (3) copies are supplied; one to the Referee, one to the Referees Coach and one to the NRL.

1.46.3 Clubs are responsible for obtaining any video recordings they may require from the NRL appointed contractor.



National Rugby League

TEAM LISTTeam:

Match:

V

Competition: Date:

Jersey No: Players Name:

Interchange:

Trainers Colour: Trainers Name:

Orange:

Yellow:

Blue:

COPIES TO: Original - NRL Ground Manager / 1st - Host Broadcaster / 2nd - PA / 3rd - Media Room / 4th - Opposition Club

This list must be handed to the NRL Ground Manager at least 60 minutes prior to the advertised start time of each match.

Clubs are responsible for ensuring that all players take the field with the jersey number indicated on this form and reflectedin the Big League Programme.

Round:

or

ATTACHMENT A


SECTION ONE

107

ATTACHMENT B

There will be no ‘Big League’ team sheet. Clubs are to submit teams electronically via the NRL Club Network.




Trainer Registration

Club:

Trainers Name:

NOTE: Copies of Accreditation Certificates ONLY must be attached.

Trainers Role ( each role):

Date of Expiry of Accreditation:

SMA or ARL Accreditation

The Head Sports Trainer (Orange) must hold a current SMA Level 2 Accreditation.A Club Physiotherapist may act as Sports Trainer, but must attach a copy of a current Resuscitation Certificate.

This Form must be E-mailed to the NRL Football Departmentwith a copy to the NRL Chief Medical Officer.

Trainers Name:

Orange: Yellow: Blue:




Level:

Trainers Name:





Level:

Trainers Name:





Level:

Trainers Name:





Level:


ATTACHMENT C


SECTION ONE

109


Match Day Programme

Team:

Match:

V

NRL Kick-off time: Date:

Round:

Curtain Raiser(s): Kick-off time(s):

Entertainment scope and timings:

ATTACHMENT D




Notice of Preferred Playing Strip

Team:

Match:

V

Preferred Playing Strip:

Date Submitted:

Round:

Opposition Club advised:

(Please indicate ):

Yes: No:

This Form must be Faxed (02 9339-8501) or e-mailed to the NRL Football Department

on the Monday preceeding each round.

Other comments / requests:

Please refer to NRL Guideline 1.15 “Jerseys” for an explaination of jersey clash policy.

Competition: or

ATTACHMENT E


SECTION ONE

111

National Rugby LeagueGround Managers Report

Venue:

Match:

V

Weather:

M t h

Ground Manager:

Date:

Broadcaster:

(Please indicate ):

Nine: Foxsports:

This Form must be E-mailed to the NRL Football Department no later than 10am Monday morning (Tuesday for Monday night Football).

Weather:

Crowd: Actual Kick-off Time:

Curtain Raisers:

Sky NZ:

NRL Referee:

Entertainment:

NOTE: Copies of NRL & NYC Team Sheets must be attached.

Urgent Action Items:

Competition:

ATTACHMENT F



On-field and sideline conduct (Trainers / Media / Broadcasters):

Ground Manager:

fi

Evaluation of Facilities:

(Please indicate OK ):

Field Markings: Field Surface:

Team Management comments (home and away):

PA:

Comments:

Signature:

Date:

Specific Contravention of NRL Policies (please reference to NRL Operations Manual):

Player Facilities: Referees Facilities: Coaches Facilities:

Notes:


SECTION ONE

113

To be advised

ATTACHMENT G



ATTACHMENT H


SECTION ONE

115




SECTION 2

Media Guidelines for NRL Matches


117

SECTION TWO

2 NRL MEDIA GUIDELINES

2.1 The NRL Media Policy aims to ensure that:

2.1.1 The importance of the media’s role in informing the public is recognised.

2.1.2 Working media are provided with the opportunity to assist in the accurate reporting of matches.

2.1.3 There are clear levels of access for all accredited media representatives at matches to facilitate a productive working environment.

2.1.4 There is mutual regard to the rights and obligations of media representatives, teams, players and offi cials and a respect for the competing needs of each party at any one time during an event.

2.1.5 There is respect for the commercial considerations of the sport, its broadcasting and commercial rights and the commercial rights of its clubs and participants.

2.2 NRL SPOKESPEOPLE

2.2.1 NRL media enquiries are to be directed to the NRL Media and Communications Department through the NRL Media Manager or the NRL Director of Media and Communications.

2.2.2 The NRL Media and Communications Department adheres to a policy of returning all telephone calls promptly.

2.2.3 Calls to individual NRL staff may be directed back to the Media and Communications Department. The policy is to assist in locating the person most able to provide accurate information on a particular issue.

2.2.4 The Chief Executive Offi cer will be available where time permits.



2.3 REFEREES

2.3.1 Neither the Referees’ Coaches nor the referees will be permitted to comment on any matter which is, or is likely to be, taken before the judiciary or any other tribunal.

2.3.2 The referee may be available to provide clarifi cation of decisions following matches upon request to the NRL Media and Communications Department.

2.3.3 No member of the media may approach the referee or any member of the refereeing squad, including the video referee, during a match or at half-time of a match.

2.4 MEDIA ACCREDITATION

2.4.1 Media accreditation for NRL games is only available from the NRL Media and Communications Department.

2.4.2 All accreditation is subject to the NRL Media and Accreditation Terms and Conditions and is issued at the sole discretion of the NRL Director of Media and Communications.

2.4.3 The NRL Media and Accreditation Terms and Conditions are made available to all media seeking accreditation and are issued in accordance with the Australian Code of Practice for Sports and News Reporting, to which the NRL is a signatory.

2.4.4 A further copy of the Terms and Conditions can be obtained from the NRL Media and Communications Department.

2.4.5 Each NRL pass is ‘Bar Coded’ to allow entry to NRL events and identifi cation of each pass.


119

SECTION TWO

2.4.6 The pass will provide entry to all NRL Telstra Premiership games but will not give automatic entry to key events such as Telstra Premiership Finals Series matches, All Stars, State of Origin matches or Test matches.

2.4.7 Due to the restrictions of space at such events and the increased demand for media access, accreditation will only be granted after separate application has been made. Application forms are available from the NRL Media and Communications Department one month prior to the event and will be accepted no later than seven days prior to the event.

2.4.8 All decisions will be at the sole discretion of the NRL Director of Media and Communications.

2.4.9 Media passes are strictly non-transferable and can only be used while working for the organisation the pass holder has been accredited to represent.

2.4.10 The NRL reserves the right, at its absolute discretion, to withdraw media accreditation.

2.5 BEHAVIOUR

2.5.1 NRL media areas (including ‘media boxes’, media interview areas and dressing rooms) are working areas and it is in everyone’s interest that they are treated accordingly.

2.5.2 Media passes are issued on the condition that media representatives will act in a professional manner whilst attending NRL games.

2.5.3 Media are not permitted to bring any guests to any area that is restricted to media personnel under any circumstance.

2.5.4 NRL Ground Managers have the authority to enforce these guidelines and to remove any media representatives refusing to comply with them or any reasonable instruction from the match-day staff.



2.6 MEDIA FACILITIES

2.6.1 Clubs are responsible for the provision of media facilities at all NRL games. Clubs are expected by the NRL to provide:

a. A ‘Media Box’ with undercover working facilities and writing space for at least 10 people.

b. Media areas to include power outlets.

c. Each major metropolitan media outlet will have access to a phone line or ‘wireless’ service (the costs of which clubs may charge to the relevant organisation) and designated seating.

d. Sandwiches, cold drinks, tea and coffee for the media at all matches.

e. A Post-Match Media Conference area meeting the requirements of the NRL Operations Manual.

f. Clubs are also required to provide a separate Photographers’ area that is similarly catered and equipped with power and ‘wireless’ access.

2.6.2 Media seeking a seat at Telstra Premiership games are asked to confi rm their attendance with the relevant Club Media Manager during the week preceding the match. This is particularly important with smaller grounds. Clubs have a responsibility to provide appropriate media seating only when it is booked prior to game day.

2.6.3 Media areas are for the use of working media only. Holders of media passes do not have right of access to media facilities or the media conference if they are not attending the game for work purposes.


121

SECTION TWO

2.7 JOURNALISTS

2.7.1 Wherever possible, seating should be designated to each organisation.

2.7.2 In allocating seating preferences in media facilities, the NRL and Clubs will give preference to Metropolitan Newspapers and Daily Regional Newspapers reporting on the team from their area.

2.7.3 Seating preference will also be given to reporters engaged in actual match coverage.

2.7.4 ‘Feature journalists’ and local media may, in the case of overcrowding, be provided with alternative seating.

2.7.5 Media representatives should liaise with the relevant Club Media Offi cer to assist in arranging interviews.

2.7.6 Media representatives are not permitted to enter the team dressing rooms without the permission of the Club Football Manager or Media Manager.

2.7.7 No Media representatives other than accredited host broadcaster employees and photographers are permitted on the playing arena (including between the touchlines and boundary fences) before, during or after NRL matches, unless specifi c prior approval is given by the NRL Media and Communications Department. This applies to all NRL venues.

2.8 PHOTOGRAPHERS

2.8.1 On match days, Photographers are not allowed inside the red restraining line around the fi eld before, during or after the game.

2.8.2 The NRL Ground Manager has the authority to remove any photographer found crossing the line.



2.8.3 Photographers’ assistants and couriers may only access the fi eld to obtain fi lm or ‘memory cards’.

2.8.4 Media passes, or (where issued) bibs, must be displayed at all times.

2.8.5 At all venues, photographers must assist player safety by remaining as close as possible to the fence and by ensuring camera cases and other equipment do not jeopardise the well-being of players or others on the sideline.

2.8.6 Photographers are reminded of the need to stay behind Host Broadcaster TV cameras at NRL games. This is particularly important in the case of ‘end-on’ cameras which are used for video-refereeing decisions. It is the responsibility of photographers to ensure they do not obstruct these cameras or Host Broadcaster employees.

2.8.7 In the case of overcrowding, photographers from major metropolitan newspapers and the NRL’s Offi cial Photographer will be given priority.

2.8.8 The NRL Media and Communications Department will have the right to assign photographic positions at any time.

2.9 TELEVISION HOST BROADCASTER

2.9.1 This term refers only to the network and its staff involved in producing a full broadcast of the match on a given day.

2.9.2 It does not automatically include other programmes associated with that network or networks who may act as Host Broadcasters at other matches.

2.10 FREE-TO-AIR TELEVISION COVERAGE

2.10.1 Channel Nine is the ‘Host Broadcaster’ of NRL matches in Australia as well as State of Origin. Nine televises matches live and on a delayed basis on Friday night from 7.30pm and delayed on Sunday at 4.00pm.

2.10.2 Prime Television is the free-to-air partner of Sky Television (who are the New Zealand rights holders).


123

SECTION TWO

2.11 SUBSCRIPTION TELEVISION COVERAGE

2.11.1 Fox Sports is the Host Broadcaster of Telstra Premiership matches in Australia other than those controlled by Channel Nine. Fox Sports will normally televise two live matches on Saturday evening as well as a delayed game from that evening, a live 2.00pm match on Sunday and a live game on Monday evening.

2.11.2 Sky TV has rights to television broadcasts in New Zealand.

2.12 TELEVISION HOST BROADCASTER RIGHTS

2.12.1 Television Host Broadcasters are allowed access to the fi eld but not beyond the red restraining line before and during the match (end-cameras are allowed within this line if such placement is considered safe after inspection by the Ground Manager).

2.12.2 Host Television Broadcasters have exclusive rights to interview the ‘man of the match’ on the fi eld before any other media outlet.

2.12.3 Host Television Broadcasters may use fi xed cameras in dressing rooms under conditions agreed with the NRL Director of Football Operations.

2.12.4 Pre-game and half-time interviews with the coach of a competing Telstra Premiership team are permitted where either coach is available.

2.12.5 All Host Television Broadcasters must provide their own accreditation passes for their broadcast crews, freelance staff and ‘bump-in’ crew.

2.12.6 These passes will be valid only on days when that network is acting as the Host Broadcaster and only when the ‘crew member’ is rostered to the telecast.

2.12.7 Unless specifi cally sanctioned by the NRL, no media other than the Host Television Broadcaster, Photographers and radio ‘sideline eyes’ will be allowed inside the ‘playing area’.



2.13 TELEVISION NEWS CREWS AND NON-RIGHTS HOLDERS

2.13.1 The NRL will assist all media organisations where possible while recognising the rights of the Host Broadcast networks.

2.13.2 No Network, other than the Host Broadcaster, may shoot any footage inside an NRL venue on match days without fi rst obtaining permission from the NRL and the Host Broadcaster.

2.13.3 This includes ‘stand-ups’ with the crowd, stadium or match in the background.

2.13.4 No television network, other than the Host Broadcaster, is permitted to conduct interviews with players, coaches and offi cials until 30 minutes after the completion of the match (this period can be either reduced or extended at the sole discretion of the NRL).

2.13.5 The Host Broadcasters have agreed to provide news footage for use by other networks in accordance with agreements between those networks. The copyright for such vision is retained by the NRL.

2.13.6 The Post-Match Media Conference is open to all news crews on the proviso that extracts from the conference are not played until the conclusion of the game coverage by the respective Host Broadcaster (unless otherwise agreed by the NRL Media and Communications Department).

2.13.7 Due to restrictions of space and the inability of non-rights holders to fi lm inside matches, there is no allocation of space within the ‘Media Box’ for news camera crews other than those attached to the Host Broadcaster.


125

SECTION TWO

2.14 RADIO HOST BROADCASTERS

2.14.1 Radio Host Broadcasters are those with the right to ‘call’ matches by the NRL.

2.14.2 2GB has the exclusive Commercial Broadcast rights to all Telstra Premiership matches other than Monday nights, the ABC has Non Commercial rights to all matches (with limited regional access to Monday nights). The TripleM network will act as Host Broadcaster for Monday Night Football.

2.14.3 Certain regional radio stations have secured ‘secondary rights’ to broadcast matches involving local teams.

2.14.4 In allocating facilities access at matches, preference will be given in the following order of priority: 2GB, the ABC then Regional Radio. In the case of Monday Night Football, Triple M will take priority.

2.14.5 Clubs are expected to provide the following radio media facilities :

a. A minimum of three radio broadcast boxes per venue, each to accommodate at least two people at the ‘front desk’.

b. Radio boxes should also accommodate seating for at least another two persons within the box.

2.14.6 All communications equipment and production requirements are the responsibility of the Host Radio Broadcaster.

2.14.7 Host Radio Broadcasters are allowed access to the fi eld, but not beyond the red restraining line, before, during and after the match.

2.14.8 Host Radio Broadcasters are not permitted to interview a player nominated as the Host Television Broadcaster’s ‘man of the match’ until the conclusion of his on-fi eld television interview.

2.14.9 No more than one ‘sideline-eye’ and one ‘cable puller’ per Host Radio Broadcaster are permitted on the sideline for the duration of the match or following the match.



2.14.10 Sideline-eyes will not have access to the dressing rooms after the match until the conclusion of the post-match media conference.

2.14.11 The need for coaches and captains to attend post-match media conferences will be given priority over all other interviews.

2.15 OTHER RADIO NETWORKS

2.15.1 Stations may relay information to the studio for news updates (this refers to scheduled news bulletins on the hour and half hour only) and to collect interviews. . No radio station or website, other than Host Radio Broadcasters, may broadcast directly from the ground.

2.15.2 No radio station or website, other than the Host Radio Broadcasters, may relay live or near live descriptions of play, or broadcast live to air updates from grounds.

2.15.3 No radio station other than the Host Radio Broadcaster will have access to players or offi cials for interview purposes until the Post-Match Media Conference.

2.15.4 The Post-Match Media Conference is open to all stations on the proviso that extracts from the conference and interviews following the conference are not played live to air (unless otherwise agreed by the NRL Media and Communications Department).


127

SECTION TWO

2.16 NRL CLUB NETWORK

2.16.1 The home club is required to provide seating for NRL Club Network representatives from both teams in addition to the minimum required seating for the other media representatives. Away clubs are to inform the home club of how many seats are required no less than 48 hours before game day. Only NRL Club Network representatives fi ling for the network require seating in the media box. NRL Club Network camera operators may be seated in appropriate alternate areas if space is limited in the media box.

2.17 JUDICIARY

2.17.1 NRL Judiciary charges will be emailed to media during the course of Monday afternoon.

2.17.2 In the case of Monday Night matches, any charges will be emailed Tuesday morning.

2.17.3 For all matches Judiciary hearings will normally be held on the Wednesday evening following each Telstra Premiership round.

2.17.4 Media are allowed to attend Judiciary hearings which will normally be held at the NRL offi ces at Rugby League Central, Moore Park.



2.18 NRL MEDIA ACCESS POLICY

The Media Guidelines have been developed to provide an effective working environment for clubs, players and media representatives.

The NRL Media and Communications Department is available to discuss any issue which may arise but also reserves the right to withdraw accreditation at its absolute discretion.

2.18.1 MEDIA ACCESS

a. Media access at matches or other events can never be determined on the basis of a person’s gender.

b. Professional sport must be able to establish a level of media access and responsibility that can be maintained regardless of the on-fi eld performance of a team.

c. Clubs have a right to manage this access in ways that best promote their desired media exposure – but not in a manner which sees the club or its players diminish their responsibilities to promote the game through the media.

2.18.2 Mid-Week Access

a. Clubs should provide a minimum of three media opportunities throughout the week that give access to relevant playing and or coaching personnel (as determined by the club media staff). These opportunities can include, but are not limited to: Post-match recovery sessions, training sessions, One Community or other media events arranged by the club.

2.18.3 Post-Match Access

a. The NRL recognises the need for media access to dressing rooms and the need for some privacy for medical, playing and coaching staff immediately after the match.


129

SECTION TWO

b. The NRL conducts Post-Match Media Conferences to allow media joint access to coaches and captains before being given access to dressing rooms.

c. Clubs in turn are asked to ensure that other players remain available after the Post-Match Media Conference.

d. Each team will attend the media conference separately. The ‘away’ team will conduct the fi rst media conference followed by the ‘home’ team.

e. Media will be granted access to dressing rooms, at the discretion of the Club Media Managers, following that team’s Post-Match Media Conference.

f. Permission to enter the team dressing room must never be refused on the grounds of gender.

g. Clubs are required at the Post-Match Media Conference to have their fi rst grade coach and one senior player (normally the captain) in attendance. Clubs are encouraged to take a second player nominated on the basis of their performance in the match.

h. The away team must attend the Post-Match Media Conference fi rst after each game and must do so no later than 15 minutes after full-time.

i. If an away team is likely to vacate the venue within moments of the media conference being completed, (either because of travel arrangements or post-match recovery), then that team is under an obligation to advise the media before the media conference.

j. In such cases the team should also open its dressing room to the media at the same time the Post-Match Media Conference commences.

k. The same applies to home clubs that intend leaving the venue for an off-site recovery.

l. Players should be available to the media at a time that is practical within the media deadlines. All clubs should ensure players are available to the media for a period of no less than 20 minutes after the Post-Match Media Conference is completed.

m. If a club ‘closes’ its dressing room area post match it should provide an interview area immediately adjacent to that room and it must ask players to visit that area when requested.




SECTION 3

NRL Country Carnival

(if conducted)

NRL Trial Matches


131

SECTION THREE

NRL Country Carnival3.1 Concept

3.1.1 To support the promotion and development of Rugby League by taking NRL pre season matches to regional areas and emerging Rugby League communities.

3.1.2 Venues will be selected based on applications submitted after calling for expressions of interest from regional areas.

3.1.3 Successful applicants will form a local organising committee to manage and oversee all planning and logistical arrangements for the match.

3.2 Purpose

3.2.1 Expose Rugby League fans in remote areas to high quality NRL matches.

3.2.2 Provide Rugby League fans in remote areas with access to NRL players and offi cials.

3.2.3 Allocate a portion of match profi ts to local Rugby League communities.

3.2.4 Provide competitive trial matches for NRL teams.

3.2.5 Provide non metropolitan areas with an opportunity to stage and promote an event to stimulate tourism and the local economy.

3.2.6 Provide event management opportunities for local communities.



3.3 Selection

3.3.1 In order to be considered for selection as a host venue for a Country Carnival match it will be necessary to demonstrate an ability to meet certain basic requirements. Selection requirements can be broken into two categories – essential requirements and desirable requirements. This document provides more detail about each of these components.

3.3.2 The essential requirements are:

a. Availability of a suitable quality playing venue

b. The necessary fi nancial backing to underwrite the event

c. Submission of an event budget for NRL approval

d. Preparedness to share profi ts with the local Rugby League community

e. Ability to assemble and co-ordinate a local team to promote and manage a large scale event

f. Support of the local community and media

3.3.3 Desirable requirements include:

a. Ability to attract match sponsorship (particularly team transport & accommodation)

b. Geographical ability to draw on an adequate population catchment area

c. Local accommodation infrastructure of suitable quality and quantity to cater for teams, offi cials, and travelling spectators

d. Suitable media facilities at host venue

e. Preparedness to organise other local events/functions to promote the event itself and the game of Rugby League


133

SECTION THREE

3.3.4 Submissions should not only include reference to all of the above mentioned requirements, but should also address any other associated matters referred to in this document.

3.3.5 The fi nal decision to allocate matches will be made by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) at its absolute discretion.

3.4 The Draw

3.4.1 The NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will announce the draw for matches to be played in the NRL Country Carnival. All matches will be played in regional areas, however, specifi c venues will not be determined until after considering submissions from interested parties to host matches.

3.4.2 The NRL will determine all matches to be played as Country Carnival matches. Clubs are not permitted to organise trial matches for NRL teams during the period of the Country Carnival.

3.5 Guidelines & Requirements

3.5.1 All matches are under the control of the NRL at all times.

3.5.2 Clubs must participate in the Country Carnival as directed by the NRL.

3.5.3 Clubs must play at designated Country Carnival venues as directed by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

3.5.4 Trials to be played outside of the Country Carnival must be organised directly by Clubs at no cost to the NRL.



3.5.5 Country Carnival events will involve the competing NRL teams only. Any other matches at the venue will be the responsibility of local organising committees.

3.5.6 Each match will be played over 2 x 40 minute halves unless both Clubs agree to play 4 x 20 minute quarters.

3.5.7 The maximum number of players to be used in a match will be limited to twenty (20), unless agreed otherwise by both Clubs.

3.5.8 Under no circumstances are Clubs to organise their own Country Carnival matches.

3.5.9 All venues will be determined by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) in conjunction with the relevant organising committees.

3.5.10 Any applications to host a match received from Clubs/Groups/Regions of affi liated Leagues must also submit a copy of their application to the appropriate governing body (eg. CRL, QRL, NZRL).

3.6 Management

3.6.1 Responsibility for co-ordination of this event shall rest with the NRL appointed Country Carnival Co-ordinator and the local organising committee.

3.6.2 Local Co-ordinators shall be responsible for all activities of the local organising committee.


135

SECTION THREE

3.7 Local Co-ordinators

3.7.1 Local Co-ordinators shall be nominated to manage and direct the local organising committee.

3.7.2 Nominations shall be vetted by the NRL and ultimate appointment will be at the discretion of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).

3.7.3 Co-ordinators shall bear responsibility for all arrangements and liaison between competing Clubs and the NRL.

3.7.4 The Co-ordinator and local organising committee must comply with all directions of the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) in planning and staging the event.

3.8 Selection of Venues

3.8.1 Venues will be selected from the following areas:

a. Northern/Central Queensland

b. South Queensland

c. North Coast NSW

d. New England NSW

e. Central/Far West NSW

f. South Coast NSW

g. Riverina/Monaro NSW

h. Regional Victoria

3.8.2 Applications will also be considered from outside of the above areas based upon the individual merits and fi nancial viability in each case.

3.8.3 Venues will be assessed in terms of satisfying venue standards.



3.8.4 Venue standards are defi ned as:-

a. An even and well grassed playing surface

b. A fully enclosed venue

c. Satisfactory dressing room/shower facilities for two teams and referee

d. Adequate toilet facilities for a minimum 3500 crowd

e. Ability to accommodate a crowd of at least 3500 persons

3.9 Ticketing

3.9.1 All ticketing shall be the responsibility of local organisers.

3.9.2 Entry prices must be set in consultation with the NRL.

3.9.3 No NRL club shall print their own admission tickets or accreditation.

3.9.4 Gate receipts remain the property of the local organising committee.

3.9.5 Complimentary tickets shall be provided for touring party of 25 ONLY for each Club.

3.9.6 Further requests for complimentary tickets must be made, in writing, to the local Co-ordinator clearly justifying the additional tickets required.

3.10 Travel

3.10.1 A travelling party of 25 persons per team must be transported from their home base to the venue by either air or road.


137

SECTION THREE

3.10.2 The local organising committee will be responsible for the transport costs of the two NRL participating teams.

3.10.3 Teams shall travel by air-conditioned touring coach where distance is less than 300 km.

3.10.4 Air travel shall be arranged where travel distance is greater than 300 km.

3.10.5 Where possible, air travel shall be confi ned to commercial scheduled services.

3.10.6 NRL Travel Agency is available to assist with and co-ordinate travel arrangements.

3.11 Accommodation

3.11.1 A travelling party of 25 persons per team must be accommodated in at least a 3 star standard hotel in double rooms (13 rooms) on a bed and breakfast basis.

3.11.2 Accommodation for up to 2 nights must be sourced by the local organising committee and presented to the NRL for approval.

3.11.3 The local organising committee will be responsible for the accommodation costs of the two NRL participating teams.

3.11.4 Bookings must be secured by the local organising committee.

3.11.5 All costs for accommodation and breakfasts shall be met by the local organising committee.



3.12 Meals

3.12.1 The local organising committee will be responsible for the provision of the following for 25 persons per touring party:-

a. 1 pre-game meal

b. 1 breakfast

c. 1 post-game meal

3.12.2 Any menu and dietary requirements of individual clubs will be sent directly to the local organising committee.

3.12.3 All other meals / drinks are the responsibility of NRL clubs.

3.13 Finance

3.13.1 Local organising committee shall meet the following costs:-

a. All marketing and promotion (local)

b. 1 x dinner (post-match) for 50 persons

c. Bed and breakfast for 50 persons (up to 2 nights)

d. 1 x pre-game lunch for 50 persons

e. Transport by coach – up to 300 km

f. Transport by air with bus transfers – over 300 km

g. Ticketing

h. Security

i. Soft drinks/water to dressing rooms and referees’ room


139

SECTION THREE

j. 8 bags of ice per room

k. Referees’ travel, accommodation and breakfast

l. Gate receipts remain the property of local organising committee.

3.13.2 The local organising committee must prepare and submit a proposed event budget for NRL approval.

3.13.3 The proposed budget should include provision for the intended distribution of revenue to the local Rugby League community.

3.14 Ground Concessions

3.14.1 This includes the following:

a. beer

b. soft drinks

c. ice cream and confectionery

d. food

e. raffl es

f. doubles

3.14.2 Concessions may be either granted to third parties, or retained by the organising committee as part of the overall revenue proposed in the event budget.



3.15 Promotion / Media

3.15.1 Local Co-ordinators should use best endeavours to utilise local editorial opportunities.

3.15.2 Promotion of individual matches will be the responsibility of the local organising committee.

3.15.3 Local Co-ordinators are to prepare a media contact list for distribution.

3.16 NRL Club Commitments

3.16.1 Each NRL club will meet the following conditions during the Country Carnival.

· Observe travel and accommodation requirements as specifi ed

· Meet the cost of requested upgrades for travel and accommodation

· Provide two (2) autographed jumpers for the local organising committee

· Assist, where possible, with local promotional and development opportunities

· Supply two (2) sets of club ball person attire for locally selected children aged 12, 13 or 14 to act as ball persons.

· Pay expenses for pre-season camps when training in designated areas

· Attend any organised post-match function

· Provide a club doctor.


141

SECTION THREE

3.17 Referees and Judiciary

3.17.1 All matches will be controlled by NRL appointed match offi cials, however the NRL will consider the appointment of local offi cials as touch judges.

3.17.2 The local organising committee will be responsible for the transport and accommodation costs of the NRL appointed match offi cials.

3.17.3 Referees and touch judges will provide their services at no cost to the local organising committee.

3.17.4 Judiciary videotape is to be arranged by the local organising committee.

3.17.5 Any player dismissed from the fi eld or charged by the NRL Judiciary Commissioner will be dealt with under the NRL Code of Procedure.

3.18 NRL Trial Matches

3.18.1 Any Club wishing to participate in trials or other matches not organised by the NRL, must have such games approved by the NRL before any agreement to participate is entered into.

3.18.2 Such approval will only be granted subject to the following:

a. NRL Club vs NRL Club

i. Matches are to be played in regional areas (unless otherwise approved by NRL)

ii. NRL referees must be appointed to control matches by the NRL Referees Coach



iii. Any associated travel and accommodation costs for the referees must be met by the event promoters and/or organisers

iv. Local touch judges are be appointed by the relevant governing League

v. Matches must be video taped in their entirety and a copy made available to the NRL upon request

vi. Matches will be subject to normal NRL judicial scrutiny and procedures if necessary

vii. The governing state body must also approve the match

viii. The NRL reserves the right to refuse permission at its absolute discretion

b. NRL Club vs Regional Club

i. Matches are to be played in regional areas (unless otherwise approved by NRL)

ii. Local referees and touch judges must be appointed by the relevant governing League unless both parties agree to the appointment of a NRL referee

iii. Any associated travel and accommodation costs for referees must be met by the event promoters and/or organisers

iv. Matches must be video taped in their entirety and a copy made available to the NRL upon request

v. Any NRL contracted player will be subject to normal NRL judicial scrutiny and procedures if necessary

vi. The governing state body must also approve the match

vii. The NRL reserves the right to refuse permission at its absolute discretion


143

SECTION THREE




SECTION 4

Travel & Accommodation


145

SECTION FOUR

Travel & Accommodation4.1 INTRODUCTION

This policy sets out the responsibilities of NRL and Clubs in respect of travel for Players and Club Offi cials for away matches and club responsibilities to the NRL Travel & Accommodation Sponsors.

4.2 NRL RESPONSIBILITIES

In NRL Competition matches covered by the attached schedule, the NRL will pay for the following.

4.2.1 a. The cost of up to 27 economy class air seats for Players and Club Offi cials utilising NRL appointed air travel providers.

b. The cost of up to 13 twin and one single room for Players and Club Offi cials for the number of nights determined by NRL, utilising NRL appointed accommodation providers.

c. The cost of breakfast for up to 27 people at NRL contracted suppliers rates.

d. The cost of transfers between airport / venue / hotel by NRL approved transport providers.

e. The cost of all airport departure and arrival taxes.

In NYC Competition matches covered by the attached schedule, the NRL will pay for the following.

4.2.2 a. The cost of up to 22 economy class air seats (23 for international travel) for Players and Club Offi cials utilising NRL appointed air travel providers.

b. The cost of up to 11 twin rooms (12 for international travel) for Players and Club Offi cials for the number of nights determined by NRL, utilising NRL appointed accommodation providers.



c. The cost of breakfast for up to 22 people (23 for international travel) at NRL contracted suppliers rates.

d. The cost of transfers between airport / venue / hotel by NRL approved transport providers.

e. The cost of all airport departure and arrival taxes.

f. NYC teams in Finals Matches will be permitted up to 25 in the travelling party

4.3 CLUB RESPONSIBILITIES

In the event NRL enters into a sponsorship or other commercial arrangement with an airline or accommodation provider, Clubs will be required to utilise the services of the offi cial NRL airline or accommodation provider.

If the NRL does not have a sponsorship arrangement in place, Clubs may seek NRL approval to use other travel and accommodation providers. Approval will be solely at the discretion of NRL and may be revoked at any time. If such approval is granted, Clubs will be required to meet any cost variation between the provider of their choice and what would normally be provided by NRL.

In all cases Clubs will meet any other costs incurred in respect of participating in NRL Competition matches, including, but not limited to:-

a. All meals (except breakfast) for all Players and Club Offi cials.

b. The cost of bus transfers other than those detailed in 4.2 d.


147

SECTION FOUR

4.4 AIR TRAVEL

The following rules apply to air travel by Players and Club Offi cials in connection with participating in NRL Competition matches:-

a. Clubs must book air travel through the offi cial travel agency appointed by NRL.

b. Individual travellers will be entitled to retain, for their own use, any frequent fl yer points accrued.

c. Upgrades from economy class seats will not be available unless the Club pays the difference.

d. Clubs must notify the offi cial travel agency of any special meal requirements at least two (2) days prior to departure.

e. Alterations to scheduled fl ight bookings are subject to NRL approval, and such approval will only be granted if there is no additional cost to NRL.

4.5 HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

The following rules apply in respect of hotel accommodation for Players and Club Offi cials:-

a. Clubs must book hotel accommodation through the offi cial travel agency appointed by NRL.

b. Individual travellers will be entitled to retain for their own use any loyalty bonuses accrued.

c. Upgrades in accommodation will not be allowed.



d. Clubs must notify the offi cial travel agency of any special meal requirements at least two (2) days prior to departure.

e. Alterations to hotel bookings are subject to NRL approval, and such approval will only be granted if there is no additional cost to NRL.

f. If the home club relocates a match to another venue, the visiting club will be entitled to fi rst choice of available hotel accommodation.

4.6 VARIATIONS TO THIS POLICY

a. Only the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) can approve amendments to the Travel and Accommodation Policy through the offi cial travel agency appointed by NRL.

b. Clubs will be invoiced directly for any additional costs incurred by approved variations to the Travel and Accommodation Policy.

c. If because of scheduling, a club prefers to remain in a city following a match rather than returning to their base, such approval will only be granted if there is an overall cost saving to the NRL. In this case, the NRL contribution will still be limited to accommodation (13 rooms per night) and breakfast (25 per day). All other costs (eg lunch, dinner, phones, incidentals) will be the responsibility of the club concerned.

d. Savings made on budget by not utilising the full travel entitlement cannot be offset against any other travel or accommodation, or carried forward for future use.


149

SECTION FOUR

APPENDIXNote: Flights are for 27 personsJourney (from/to) Travel AccommodationAuckland to all matches Flight* 2 nightsBrisbane/Gold Coast to Auckland Flight* 2 nights Brisbane/Gold Coast to Canberra Flight 2 nightsBrisbane/Gold Coast to Central Coast Flight 2 nightsBrisbane to Gold Coast, Gold Coast to Brisbane Bus No accommodationBrisbane/Gold Coast to Illawarra Flight 2 nightsBrisbane/Gold Coast to Melbourne Flight 2 nightsBrisbane/Gold Coast to Newcastle Flight 2 nightsBrisbane/Gold Coast to North Queensland Flight 2 nightsBrisbane/Gold Coast to Sydney Flight 1 night *Canberra to Auckland Flight* 2 nightsCanberra to Central Coast Flight 1 night *Canberra to Illawarra Bus 1 night *Canberra to Melbourne Flight 1 night *Canberra to Newcastle Flight 1 night *Canberra to Queensland Flight 2 nightsCanberra to Sydney - CHOICE Flight No accommodation or Bus 1 nightMelbourne to Auckland Flight* 2 nightsMelbourne to Brisbane/Gold Coast Flight 2 nightsMelbourne to Canberra Flight 1 night *Melbourne to Central Coast Flight 2 nightsMelbourne to Illawarra Flight 2 nights Melbourne to Newcastle Flight 2 nights Melbourne to North Queensland Flight 2 nights Melbourne to Sydney Flight 1 night *Newcastle to Auckland Flight* 2 nightsNewcastle to Canberra Flight 1 night *Newcastle to Central Coast Bus No accommodationNewcastle to Illawarra Bus 1 night *Newcastle to Melbourne Flight 2 nightsNewcastle to Queensland Flight 2 nightsNewcastle to Sydney Bus 1 nightNorth Queensland to all matches Flight 2 nightsSydney Club to Auckland Flight* 2 nights Sydney Club to Brisbane/Gold Coast Flight 1 night *Sydney Club to Canberra Bus 1 night Sydney Club to Central Coast Bus 1 night Sydney Club to Illawarra Bus 1 night Sydney Club to Melbourne Flight 1 night *Sydney Club to Newcastle Bus 1 night Sydney Club to North Queensland Flight 2 nights

NB; For the purpose of this policy Sydney Clubs are defi ned as:- Canterbury, Cronulla, Manly, Parramatta, Penrith, South Sydney, St George/Illawarra, Sydney Roosters, Wests Tigers.

* NRL will fund one additional nights accommodation if air fl ight is not available after the game.



Toyota Cup Travel Policy

The following document will outline the accommodation entitlements for teams the night before their scheduled game. Teams will be required to depart asap. Subject to fl ight availability.

All other teams will be required to travel on the day of the game. Journey From To Accommodation Travel

Auckland All Venues Yes Flight

Brisbane / Gold Coast Auckland Yes Flight Brisbane / Gold Coast Central Coast Yes Flight/Bus Brisbane / Gold Coast Illawarra Yes Flight/Bus

Canberra Auckland Yes Flight Canberra Central Coast Yes Bus Canberra Newcastle Yes Bus Canberra North Queensland Yes Flight

Melbourne Auckland Yes Flight Melbourne Central Coast Yes Flight/Bus Melbourne Illawarra Yes Flight/Bus Melbourne North Queensland Yes Flight

Newcastle Auckland Yes Flight Newcastle Canberra Yes Bus Newcastle North Queensland Yes Flight

North Queensland Auckland Yes Flight North Queensland Canberra Yes Flight North Queensland Central Coast Yes Flight/Bus North Queensland Illawarra Yes Flight/Bus North Queensland Melbourne Yes Flight North Queensland Newcastle Yes Flight North Queensland Sydney Yes Flight

Sydney Auckland Yes Flight Sydney North Queensland Yes Flight


151

SECTION FOUR




SECTION 5

Blood Borne Infectious Diseases Guidelines


153

SECTION FIVE

5.1.1 Management Procedures

The National Rugby League adopts the policy of Sports Medicine Australia in relation to blood borne infectious diseases. The aim of that policy is to prevent the spread of disease via infected blood and other body fl uids.

5.1.2 Matches and Training Bleeding Injuries

In the event that a Player suffers a cut at training or during the course of the match, the Player(s) must leave the fi eld as soon as practicable and the following procedures will apply:

a. During Matches:

i. If the referee judges that a Player is bleeding and is likely to be immediately involved in a contact situation (e.g., a tackle, ruck or scrum), the referee must stop the match until the Player is attended to by the trainer.

ii. If the bleeding cannot be stopped, the Player must leave the fi eld of play and a replacement will be made.

iii. If the bleeding Player does not leave the fi eld voluntarily or when ordered to do so by the referee, the referee may dismiss the Player and charge him with misconduct.

b. During Training:

i. The bleeding Player must be removed from the fi eld immediately by the coach or must voluntarily leave the fi eld.

ii. If the bleeding cannot be controlled, the Player must cease training for that session.

5.1 Blood Borne Infectious Diseases Guidelines



5.1.3 Team Areas

a. Dressing Room:

i. Hand basins, toilets, showers and benches must be cleaned regularly.

ii. Drains must run freely.

iii. A liquid antiseptic soap dispenser, disposable hand towels, brooms and wash buckets must be readily available.

iv. Sponges must not be used at any time.

v. Spitting is prohibited in or around the area.

vi. Urinating, other than in the toilet area, is prohibited.

vii. Sharing of equipment, including use of another’s towel or use of clothing to stand/sit on whilst drying off is discouraged.

viii. Players should have a clean pair of thongs to wear to and from the shower/toilet.

5.1.4 First Aid Room

a. The fi rst aid room must be cleaned regularly.

b. A rubbish bin must contain plastic liners, which are to be disposed of after each training session/match.

c. Needles/syringes must be disposed of after use in a suitable waste disposal kit.


155

SECTION FIVE

5.1.5 Gymnasium

a. Flooring should be of a non-pervious material with a sealed surface that is easily cleaned. Carpet or artifi cial turf type are discouraged.

b. Players must have shoes, shirt and own towel for each work-out.

c. Communal baths are to be discouraged.

5.1.6 Blood Contamination

a. A spray container with 15mls of standard dishwashing detergent and 32mls of standard household bleach is to be standard equipment for each team, on the sideline and in the dressing rooms.

Minor contamination of clothing and equipment must be sprayed, and thoroughly soaked, with the solution immediately the player leaves the fi eld.

The decontamination solution should be in contact with the blood spill for between one and fi ve minutes.

Prior to return to the fi eld, the area should be thoroughly rinsed-off with water.

All but minor blood contamination of clothing and equipment must result in the contaminated clothing and equipment being replaced prior to the player returning to the fi eld.

As standard household bleach deteriorates with time, the decontamination solution must be made up on the day of the game. Do not use bleach which has passed its expiry date.



A standard medicine glass can be used to insure concentrations of detergent and bleach are correctly added to 250mls of water.

A 0.5% concentration of bleach is not considered hazardous, however care must be taken to avoid contact with eyes or wounds and prolonged contact with the skin. Thorough rinsing with water will further reduce any risk.

b. Contaminated clothing/equipment must be sealed in a plastic bag within a clearly marked bin and laundered separately in a hot wash at a minimum temperature of 80°C.

5.1.7 Medical/First Aid Kit

a. The kit must contain disposable protective gloves, soap and plastic bags for disposal of contaminated equipment/clothing.

5.1.8 On and Off Field Treatment of Bleeding Wounds:

a. The control of bleeding should be carried out by the trainer, who must wear gloves, or that the Player applies pressure to the wound with his own hands.

5.1.9 Drink Containers

a. Players are to be supplied with and use their own drink containers.

b. During matches, Players must drink only from recommended water containers possessing spouts.


157

SECTION FIVE

c. Players should not have contact with or touch the nozzle of squeeze bottles.

Warning: The potentially life threatening meningococcal disease can be transmitted by sharing drink containers. The NRL supports the Federal Government initiative to vaccinate those aged between 1 and 19 years against Meningococcal – C via GP and school based programs. In addition, it is recommended that all players who have not undergone vaccination, including Sports Trainers and Offi cials involved in the supply of fl uids, seek medical advice on the advisability of vaccination against Meningococcal – C.

5.1.10 Team Gear Bag

a. Spare jerseys, shorts and socks must be available in the event that blood contaminated clothing needs to be replaced.

5.1.11 Club Personnel - Hepatitis B Vaccination

a. Vaccination for all Players thirteen (13) years and older and all coaches is recommended.

b. Vaccination is compulsory for referees, match Offi cials (team managers, masseurs, gear stewards and Offi cials involved in the supply of fl uids or playing equipment) and sports trainers.





SECTION 6

Development Fees


159

SECTION SIX

The Development Fee Schedule and accompanying notes which once formed part of the Operations Manual (Section 6) has been moved to the NRL Playing Contract and Remuneration Rules.




SECTION 7

Licensing Guidelines


161

SECTION SEVEN

7.0 Licensing Guidelines7.1 CLUB LOGO CHANGESIf a Club wishes to change its Club logo design, an application for change must be submitted to the NRL’s Licensing Department adhering to the 18 month time frame requirements.

For the avoidance of doubt, a ‘Club Logo’ refers to either one of the following:

Primary Logo

Secondary Logo

Wordmark

The timelines for any submissions to change Club marks for 2013 has closed.

For the proposed introduction of a new primary, secondary or wordmark in the 2014 Competition, the following timetables apply (Please refer to Appendix A):

Club Logos

• JUNE 30 2012All applications for logo changes must be submitted to the NRL (By email, fax or post).

• JULY 31 2012The NRL will notify Clubs in writing of the outcome of their application.

• APRIL 30 2013 Final artwork of the proposed Club Logo must be submitted to the NRL.

• MAY 30 2013The NRL will notify Clubs in writing of its approval or non-approval of the artwork.

Please note: A Club logo must remain in the system for at least a 3 year cycle before it may be considered for change.



7.2 CLUB ANNIVERSARY LOGOS

Within the standard time frame, the NRL will allow for Clubs to submit an application to implement an Anniversary logo for a ‘milestone’ season. The approved ‘milestones’ are increments of 10 plus quarters (eg 10/20/30/40/50 etc and 25/50/75/100 etc).

Should an Anniversary logo be utilised for a milestone season, the Club must then revert back to the standard Club Logo until that logo has been within the system for at least a 3 year cycle. In this circumstance, the cycle does not need to be in 3 consecutive years, but before the logo may change it must have been used for a total of 3 seasons.

Some examples of approved Club Anniversary Logo’s include the following:

Wests Tigers 10 Years

Canberra Raiders 25 Years

Penrith Panthers 40 Years

Sydney Roosters 100 Years


163

SECTION SEVEN

Please note that request to wear nominated jersey design on a specifi c round will still be subject to NRL Football Operations approval as per the guidelines outlined within the Football Operations Manual.

Please also be advised that should your Club wish to wear your One-Off Promotional jersey for a match where the competing team does not hold a contrasting main or alternate jersey to the promotion jersey, the request to wear the promotional jersey will be denied (regardless if the match is at your Club home venue), therefore ensure that you consider who you are playing when designing promotional jerseys.

Any proposed use of traditional or ‘One-Off Promotional’ jerseys for particular matches or occasions must be approved by the NRL at least one calendar month prior to the date of the fi xture. Please refer to the appropriate application form in order to submit an application for this request. (Attachment E, section 1)

7.4 STRIP ALLOWANCESJersey allocation per season:

1. Main Jersey x 1 design – 3 year design cycle

Retail Distribution – Club Retail/ General Retail

2. Alternate ‘A’ x 1 design - 2 year design cycle


3. Alternate ‘B’ x 1 design - 1 year design cycle


4. ‘One-Off Promotional’ – unlimited allocation per season – 1 year design cycle

eg Charity/Cause related themed – Reconciliation/Breast Cancer etcRetail Distribution – Club Retail only

During a Clubs Centenary, there are unique circumstances for allowing Clubs to highlight their 100 Year celebrations through their on-field program. As a result, the NRL will consider and allow special applications for branding of this significant milestone in the Clubs Centenary year.

Applications and artwork must be provided in writing to the NRL’s Licensing Department for approval prior to commencing production.

7.3 100 YEAR RULING



Club Jerseys

1st NOVEMBER 2012 All applications for Jersey changes must be submitted to the NRL (by email, fax or post).

1ST DECEMBER 2012The NRL will notify Clubs in writing of the outcome of their application.

30TH JANUARY 2013Final artwork of the proposed Club Jersey must be submitted to the NRL.

28th FEBRUARY 2013The NRL will notify Clubs in writing of its approval or non-approval of the artwork.

1st NOVEMBER 20132014 jersey permitted to be released to retail market

Main Designs A Club must maintain its Main Jersey design for a minimum of three seasons before it may submit to change it. Clubs must provide an application in writing to change their main jersey within the 12 month time frame. A Club may elect to change its Main short and socks after they have been in a cycle for a two season period.

Alternate Designs A Club must maintain its Alternate Jersey design for a minimum of two seasons before it may submit to change it. Clubs must provide an application in writing to change their Alternate jersey within the 12 month time frame.

The timelines for any submissions to change Club jerseys/shorts or socks for 2013 has closed.For the proposed introduction of a new on-fi eld design in the 2014 Competition, the following timetables apply (Please refer to Appendix A):

7.5 ON-FIELD KIT DESIGN CHANGES


165

SECTION SEVEN

The form of notice (Attachment E, section 1) advising of the Home Teams selected playing strip, and the Visiting Team’s requested playing strip, must be completed and faxed to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) by 5pm on the Monday preceding each match.

The NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will advise Clubs of approved playing strips as soon as possible after receiving the form of notice.

In matches played at ‘neutral’ venues (e.g. Finals) both participating Clubs may apply to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) for approval to wear their preferred playing strip. After considering such requests the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) will advise both competing teams of the approved playing strips for that match.

7.6 JERSEY CLASHESWith regards to the Main and Alternate strips, it is a requirement that Clubs have these strips in suffi ciently contrasting colours (ie one light, one dark) to avoid clashes with other teams that may play in similar colours. It is an absolute requirement that one or both (should a Club carry 2 Alternative strips) are in direct contrast to the Main strip.

In all cases, the Home Team will be entitled to wear the playing strip of their choice. The Visiting Team may apply to the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) for approval to wear either of their playing strips, however, where the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) considers that the Visiting Team’s selection does not suffi ciently contrast with the Home Team’s selection, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) may direct the Visiting Team to wear its Alternate strip.

Please note if the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) is of the opinion that the colour contrast between the two playing strips of any Club is not suffi cient, the Club concerned will be required to have a third playing strip in a completely contrasting colour available for use as directed by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee). Any Club required to have a third playing strip will be advised in writing by the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee).



7.7 JERSEY NUMBERS Jersey numbers must be of a size, style, design and colour as approved by the NRL. The proposed colour, style and size of the numbers for Main, Alternate and one off promotional jerseys must be submitted to the NRL’s Licensing Department in accordance with its standard approval procedures and will be signed off in conjunction with the Operations Department to ensure it provides the required contrast.

Please note that on a dark jersey, the number must appear white and not simply just a dark number with a white keyline.

All numbers must appear clean of any internal branding or design elements. As shown on the schematics on page 185, the jersey numbers are to appear no greater then 32cm wide.

7.8 PLAYER REGISTRATION NUMBERS The NRL approves Clubs to recognise Player Registration Numbers, which may be applied on to the players on-fi eld short across all strips (Main, Alternates, promotional). Clubs are permitted to apply this number as opposed to being supplied by the Kit Supplier.

As demonstrated below, the number is to be embroidered and may appear no larger than3.7 x 2.0 = 7.4 cm sq.

Clubs must submit a sample of the number application to the NRL for approval prior to the start of each season or at anytime when a different supplier is used for this application.

The position of the Player Registration Number is only permitted above the sponsor on the right leg (as worn).

The embroidery thread colour used for the player registration number must be approved by the Licensing Department and match the Club colours, being careful not to add any other colours to the playing strip.

37 mm

20 m

m

Player Registration Number 7.4cm2

Direct Embroidery

Sponsor Logo 100cm2

Apparel position 25cm2

Sublimate


167

SECTION SEVEN

7.9 SPECIAL CELEBRATION AND ONE OFFCOMMEMORATION JERSEY EMBROIDERIES

Player Number,Milestone

& Game

Manufacturer Mark 25cm2

Direct embroidery or sublimate

Applications will be considered by the NRL on a case-by-case basis provided the request meets one of the two following criteria:

Club Anniversary eg: 10 Year Anniversary

Anniversaries will only be approved for increments of 10 plus quarters (eg 10/20/30/40/50 etc and 25/50/75/100 etc). Please note that the text approved must be no greater than 2 lines and placement is below the Kit Suppliers mark centre chest of the jersey.

Should a Club be utilising an Anniversary logo as its Primary mark on the playing strip throughout the season, this additional one off branding space will not be permitted. The space is only for one-off jersey applications.

Signifi cant Player Milestone eg: John Smith 200 Games

Signifi cant Milestones are defi ned as• Debuts• Increments of 100 games• Increments of 50 Games from 150

games on - i.e. 150/250/350• Most games played for any one

Club (note ONE Club only, not multiple Clubs)

• Player retirement.Please note that the placement of the approved text is below the Kit Suppliers mark centre chest of the jersey, and must

be no greater than 2 lines of text plus the players registration number (if desired as the fi rst line). The approved format of the wording is to appear as shown below:

Player Number eg: 608Milestone eg: NRL Bulldogs DebutGame: Bulldogs vs St George Illawarra

Player Retirement eg: 608Milestone eg: Player X RetirementGame: Team A vs Team B or 2000-2012

The approved sizing for this embroidery is as follows:• Maximum of 10 mm in height per line • Maximum of 100 mm in length per line The allowance between each line of embroidery is 5 mm

All applications must be made in writing to the NRL’s Licensing Department no less than 4 weeks out from the proposed date for the player/s to wear the embroidery on the jersey. Submissions must be provided using the approved application form. (Appendix B)



7.10 ON-FIELD SPONSOR GUIDELINES

The following On-Field Authentic Playing Kit Guidelines must be adhered to for the reproduction of all sponsor logos on team playing kits. Clubs and On-Field Kit Suppliers must meet the following specifi cations for On-Field Team Apparel.

Please ensure that all on-fi eld products and layouts are approved in writing by the NRL Licensing Department via the online approval system prior to production and distribution. Please note that all submissions must be provided and approved via artwork and pre production stages.

Please note the approved application process for each mark on the playing strip:

DESIGNATION APPROVED

APPLICATION

Telstra Premiership Logo*

Sublimation

Club Logo Sublimation

Apparel position Embroidery or Sublimation

Sponsors Sublimation

Telstra Premiership Logo for embroidery (always appears with white keyline)


169

SECTION SEVEN

7.11 JERSEY FRONT (please refer to schematic on page 177 for correct placement)

SPONSOR

DESIGNATION

PLACEMENT MAXIMUM

SIZE SQ CM

Major

SponsorJersey Front 450cm2

Sleeve

SponsorJersey Sleeves 175cm2

Sleeve Sponsor

Isolation AreaPerimeter of logo 2cm

Apparelposition

Below Centre

Placket25cm2

Club Logo

Left Chest As Worn 55cm2

Telstra Premiership Logo

Right Chest As Worn 55cm2

“On Field Authentic” Locker Tag

Bottom Right of Jersey As Worn

52.2cm2

Please note that the logos upon the sleeve designations must carry the same branding and may not carry two different brands or company marks.

BACK(please refer to schematic on page 178 for correct placement)

SPONSOR DESIGNATION

PLACEMENT MAXIMUM SIZE SQ CM

Top Back of Jersey Sponsor*

Top of Jersey

shoulder width x 8cm high

Secondary Sponsor*

Bottom of Jersey

Max 7cm high

Player Number

Centre of Jersey

32cm wide

* Please note the approved amendment as of 2008, allowing all Clubs to have more than 2 sponsors in total over the 3 jersey locations – ie there may be different logos for the front, top and bottom jersey locations.

Note: Kit-Suppliers please ensure that the Secondary Sponsor Logo is positioned in a way that ensures it is clearly visible when the jersey is tucked into the shorts.



7.12 SHORTSFRONT (please refer to schematic on page 177 for correct placement)

SPONSOR DESIGNATION


Sponsor Logo

Right Leg As Worn 100cm2

Apparel position

Left Leg As Worn 25cm2

Telstra Premiership Logo (in full)

Left Leg As Worn 55cm2

Player Registration Number

Above Sponsor Logo on Right Leg As Worn

7.4cm2

BACK(please refer to schematic on page 178 for correct placement)

SPONSOR DESIGNATION


Sponsor

LogoRight Leg As Worn 100cm2

Sponsor

LogoLeft Leg As Worn 100cm2

SIDE

SPONSOR DESIGNATION


Sponsor

LogoSide panelling of Short 8 x 10.5cm2

7.13 SOCKS

SPONSOR DESIGNATION PLACEMENT MAXIMUM SIZE SQ CM

Primary Manufacturer Mark Turn Down or Calf (not both) 25cm2

Secondary Manufacturer Mark Turn Down or Calf (not both) Horz-4cm, Vert-25cm2

Apparel position

can either go onturn-down or calfarea of sock.WovenSize 25cm2


171

SECTION SEVEN

MAJOR SPONSOR450cm2

Sew in “Authentics” LabelApparel position

25cm2

Direct Embroideryor Sublimation

SleeveSponsor Sublimation175cm2

Telstra Premiership Logo 55cm2 Direct Embroidery - Retail

Secondary Manufacturers Mark 8cm(w)

Secondary Manufacturers Mark 8cm(w)

SleeveSponsor Sublimation175cm2

Apparel position 25cm2

Sublimate or Direct Embroidery

Sponsor Logo Sublimation100cm2

XXX

Player Registration Number 7.4cm2

Direct Embroidery or Sublimation

Telstra Premiership Logo 5cm2

Direct Embroidery

Secondary Manufactures Mark 8cm(w) x 10.5cm(h)

Secondary Manufactures Mark 8cm(w) x 10.5cm(h)

Locker Tag and Gear Sponsor 52.5cm2 (105 x 50mm)

Direct Embroidery or Sublimation - Players only

Club Logo 55cm2

Direct Embroidery - Retail

Direct Embroidery or Sublimation - Players only

ON-FIELD – FRONT



ON-FIELD STRIP - SIDE

Right Hand Side Left Hand Side

Sleeve Sponsor Sublimation175cm2

Isolation area 2cm2 around perimeter of Sleeve Sponsor

Telstra Premiership Logo 55cm2

Direct EmbroiderySponsor Logo Sublimation100cm2

Secondary Manufacturers Mark no wider than 8cm2

Secondary Manufacturers Mark no wider than 8cm2 and 10.5cm2 high


173

SECTION SEVEN

ON-FIELD STRIP - BACK

Please note: Kit-Suppliers to ensure that Secondary Sponsor Logo is positioned in a way that ensures it is clearly visible when the jersey is tucked into the shorts.

MAJOR SPONSORSublimation

shoulder width x 8cm high

32cm


SECONDARY SPONSORSublimation, maximum 7cm high




7.14 ON-FIELD KIT SUPPLIER APPROVED ITEMSIn these Guidelines:

“On-Field Authentic” means an item of team apparel which is identical to that worn by Players in NRL Competition matches in terms of design, fabric and badging. The defi nitive listing is provided below.

All artwork and pre-production samples must be sent in to the NRL for approval prior to production. This approval requirement includes any item outside of the list below ie Club Special Make Up’s (SMU’s).

Any On-Field Kit Supplier who is granted a license to sell Team Authentic Apparel must pay a royalty to the NRL by quarterly payments in arrears at the prevailing rate, which is currently 15% of the wholesale price of the Team Apparel.

The following products are part of the offi cial NRL On-Field range (known collectively as the Kit Suppliers approved product list).

1. On Field Playing Jerseys (Main, Alternate/s, Promotional)

2. Playing Shorts (Main, Alternate/s, Promotional)3. Playing Socks (Main, Alternate/s, Promotional)4. Ladies Jersey (Main, Alternate/s, Promotional)5. Kids Jersey (Main, Alternate/s, Promotional)6. Media Cap x 1 design 7. Media Polo Shirt x 1 design8. Pre season Polo Shirt x 1 design9. Warm Up Top x 1 design10. Coaches Jacket x 1 design11. Spray Jacket x 1 design12. Sweat x 1 design13. Tracksuit x 1 design14. Training T-shirt x 1 design15. Training Singlet x 1 design

16. Training Shorts x 1 design17. Training Jerseys x 1 design18. Training Cap x 1 design19. Player Gear Bag x 1 design20. Swimmers x 1 design21. Coaches Training T-Shirt22. Coaches Singlet x 1 design23. Coaches Shorts x 1 design

The following products can be manufactured for TEAM USE ONLY, and can NOT be sold into retail or produced for any other purpose than to outfit the team to which this deal pertains.

1. Beanie2. Transport Bag3. Backpack4. Bucket Hat5. Warm Up Pants6. Side Line Coat

Please be advised, for the avoidance of doubt that club Kit Suppliers are not permitted to manufacture any product (for team use or with the intention of making that product available for retail of any kind) that does not appear on the approved product list as outlined, unless approved as a Club Special Make Up (SMU).

Club SMU’s are limited to no more than 8 pieces per Club per season.

Distribution of the SMU items is contained to the Club Retail environment only, being:• Club 4-Walled Locations• Club Internet Shop• Games Day Retailing


175

SECTION SEVEN

For example, these items include (but are not limited to):

• Infants Kit – jersey/shorts

• Toddlers Kit – jersey/shorts

• Boys Kit – jersey/shorts

• Kids Kit – jersey/shorts

• Junior Kit – jersey/shorts

• Youth Kits – jersey/shorts

• Youth Polos/Tees/Caps etc

7.15 ALCOHOL AND SPORTS BETTING BRANDING

As per communication issued to Club CEO’s in November 2009, please note that the below guidelines regarding Alcohol and Sports Betting Branding will be implemented immediately on all Junior Replica and Training items.

Given the sensitivities in relation to the promotion of sports betting and alcohol through products which are directly targeted at minors, please note that Alcohol branding and/or Sports Betting branding is not to be prominently placed on any products which are specifi cally targeted at people aged under 18.

For the avoidance of doubt, no Alcohol or Sports Betting branding is permitted to be applied to any replica and/or training kit which is specifi cally targeted at minors ie people aged under 18 years.



7.16.1 The below is based on club agreements and not specifi c player agreements.

The main objectives of providing these guidelines include the following:

• Ensuring that the rights of all Club Kit Suppliers & major sponsors are not diluted by potential compression garment suppliers by them gaining incidental exposure in a playing environment

• Create a consistent and equal playing fi eld with regards to the issue of compression garments amongst all NRL Clubs & therefore ensure that no Club has an advantage over any other

• Police individual player deals in order to allow the Clubs to negotiate deals for the entire Club, not specifi c players (ie Club inventory v player specifi c inventory)

Defi nitions

Tool of Trade (refer 1.22.1b. Players Standard Equipment)

Any standard equipment that the governing body, (i.e. the NRL), requires players to wear in order to compete in a Match. These items are defi ned as:

• On-Field Uniform (Jersey, Short & Sock)• Boots

No other items outside of this list are deemed a ‘Tool of Trade’ (Players Standard Equipment) as they are worn at the players discretion and are not mandatory requirements. Therefore, Compression Garments are not defi ned as a Tool of Trade (Players Standard Equipment) in the NRL’s competitions.

Compression Garments

Any technical garments worn under a players on-fi eld uniform (for purposes such as increased endurance, post-match muscle recovery etc). These garments include upper body tops, shirts, tights, socks and shorts. Over time, other garments may be developed outside of the ones previously mentioned to become included in the list.

There are specifi c guidelines regarding compression garments for both match & training environments which are defi ned below.

7.16.2 In a Match Environment, compression garments may only be worn on the following provisions:

a. Garments may not extend below the elbow or knee of the player, neck/collar or the length of the playing socks

b. Compression Garments shall only be black or of an approved colour

c. External branding meaning logos or insignias may be carried on the compression garments if the Players Club has an approved agreement with a compression gear supplier and in accordance with the following provisions:

i Location: Base of shorts ONLYii Placement on shorts: On the front of the base of

right hand side when worn (i.e. opposite side to kit suppliers logo)

iii Sizing: 12.5 cm2 (half size of kit suppliers) logosd. No player may wear external branding meaning

logos or insignias of an individual sponsor unless it is also the approved Club compression gear supplier.

e. No visible adhesive tape, patch or any other material covering up the Manufacturers Logo shall be visible

f. Stitching may be shown and is not required to be blacked out.

There will be no exceptions to these regulations from either accidental or intentional occurrences.

7.16.3 In a Training Environment, compression garments of any nature may be worn by players and branding is not restricted. Therefore, should players wear compression garments that bear logos, insignias, distinguishing stitching devices or any other distinctive branding features in a Training Environment, a second set must be owned and worn by the player when competing in matches in accordance to Match Environment guidelines.

Please note:

Individual players photographed in compression garments in a training environment when wearing other Club training apparel (ie training singlet, jersey etc), may not be used in advertising/point of sale unless four or more players of equal representation are contained in the imagery.

In relation to players who enter into a TPA with a compression gear manufacturer, such TPA will still require Salary Cap Auditor and Club approval prior to agreement. POS/advertising/promotion etc would not be possible for those players who have individual arrangements, in training or playing gear.

7.16 COMPRESSION GARMENTS


177

SECTION SEVEN

COMPRESSION - FRONT

NOTE: Garments may not extend below the elbow or knee of the player, neck/collar or the length of the playing socks



COMPRESSION - BACK



179

SECTION SEVEN

ON-FIELD - FRONT - JERSEY AND COMPRESSION



ON-FIELD - BACK - JERSEY AND COMPRESSION


181

SECTION SEVEN

COMPRESSION - FRONT NON APPROVED LOGO POSITIONS




COMPRESSION - BACK NON APPROVED LOGO POSITIONS



183

SECTION SEVEN

7.17 TRAINERS APPAREL - MATCH ENVIRONMENT

• Trainers shirts must be fl uorescent in colour and comply with the following PMS specifi cations:

Orange PMS 804 2X Fluoro

Yellow PMS 803 2X Fluoro

Blue PMS 801 2X Fluoro

• In cases where the NRL deems that there may be a clash of trainer’s colours with either competing team, the NRL Director of Football (or his nominee) may direct the trainers of both Clubs to swap colours to reduce the possibility of mistaken identity by players, offi cials, or spectators.



APPLICATION FOR CHANGE TO CLUB LOGO AND/OR PLAYING STRIP FOR SEASON 2014

APPENDIX A

NATIONAL RUGBY LEAGUE

CLUB NAME:

NAME (Print):

SIGNATURE

DATE:

D D / M M

/ Y Y Y Y

APPLICATION [please tick appropriate box(es)] :

LOGO

MAIN PLAYING STRIP

ALTERNATE PLAYING STRIP A

ALTERNATE PLAYING STRIP B

Clubs which have changed their main playing strip or Club logo for

season 2012 are not eligible to apply for a main playing strip or logo

change for season 2014.

Please email your application to [email protected]

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT

DATES REGARDING YOUR APPLICATION

JERSEYS:

• NOVEMBER 1, 2012

All applications for jersey changes must

be submitted to the NRL (by fax or post)

• DECEMBER 1, 2012

The NRL will notify Clubs in writing

of the outcome of their application.

• JANUARY 31, 2013

Final artwork of the proposed main

and alternate strip (jersey, short and sock)

must be submitted to the NRL.

• FEBRUARY 28, 2013

The NRL will notify Clubs in writing of its

approval or non-approval of the artwork.

CLUB LOGOS:

• JUNE 30 2012

All applications for jersey changes must

be submitted to the NRL (by fax or post)

• JULY 31 2012

The NRL will notify Clubs in writing

of the outcome of their application.

• APRIL 30 2013

Final artwork of the proposed Club Logo

must be submitted to the NRL.

• MAY 31 2013

The NRL will notify Clubs in writing of

its approval or non-approval of the artwork.

* Launch date for the new Playing Strip and/or

Club Logo must be approved by the NRL

Soft Copy contained withinLicensing On-Field Guidelines CD


185

SECTION SEVEN

APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL EVENT EMBROIDERY FOR SEASON 2012NATIONAL RUGBY LEAGUE

CLUB NAME:

NAME (Print):

SIGNATURE

DATE:

D D / M M

/ Y Y Y Y

APPLICATION (please tick appropriate box which relates to your

submission) :

CLUB ANNIVERSARY

Please Specify Anniversary:

PLAYER MILESTONE

Please Specify Player:

Please Specify Text to Appear:

Player Registration Number (Line A)

[Text Line One]

[Text Line Two]

All applications must be made in writing to the NRL’s Licensing

Department no less than 4 weeks out from the proposed date for the

player/s to wear the embroidery on the jersey. Submissions must be

provided using this approved application form.

Please submit application

to NRL’s Licensing Manager:

Email: [email protected]

Please Specify Milestone:

Soft Copy contained within Licensing On-Field Guidelines CD

APPENDIX B




SECTION 8

Ticketing - Major Events


187

SECTION EIGHT

8.1 GRAND FINAL TICKETING POLICYNRL

8.1.1 NRL Board

Each board member will receive four premium tickets free of charge plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.

8.1.2 NRL Staff

All NRL staff (excluding part time or casual match day staff) are entitled to two premium tickets free of charge plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.

8.1.3 NRL Clubs

A generous allocation in each price category will be made available to Season Ticket Holders of all Clubs participating in the NRL competition. These tickets will be made available through all Ticketek outlets. Tickets will be made available during a preferential booking period. Any unsold tickets will be released for general sale. Season Ticket Holders will need to present their season ticket in order to purchase a Grand Final ticket. The season ticket number can be quoted over the telephone and the season pass presented on collection of ticket(s). Each season ticket entitles the member to purchase 2 Grand Final tickets.

Each NRL Club will be offered 500 tickets to purchase across the top 3 price categories for Club use ie. board, staff, sponsors etc. The number of tickets required will be confi rmed by the clubs in writing to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the club for allocation and distribution.

When distributing tickets a record of aisle and seat numbers must be kept as this will be the only record of these allocations and may be needed should tickets be lost. Tickets may not be re-issued without this information. The Ticketek booking fee applies to all tickets purchased.

All tickets are sold on a no refunds or exchanges policy.



PARTICIPATING TEAMS

8.1.4 NRL

Fifty Accreditation passes will be issued to each club for distribution to offi cials, players and coaching staff arriving via bus only. The pass is to be displayed at all times and is not transferable. Persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the club concerned. Passes should only be issued to persons described as Offi cials under the NRL Rules, players participating in the match and coaching staff. Other personnel (eg. Sponsors etc.) must be escorted into the dressing rooms after the match by an offi cial.

Each club will also be allocated 84 Ticketek tickets for players and offi cials. Tickets issued are not transferable and persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the club concerned.

Additional tickets will be allocated to each club. The club will confi rm with the NRL the number of tickets the club will purchase for their distribution (ie staff, sponsors etc.) and/or number of tickets to be made available to their supporters through the Ticketek system.




189

SECTION EIGHT

8.1.5 NSW Cup

Each team will be allocated seventy fi ve Ticketek tickets for distribution to players and offi cials only. Tickets issued are not transferable and persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the club concerned.

Participating clubs will be allocated an additional fi fty tickets each for purchase. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed in writing by the Club to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the club for allocation and distribution.



8.1.6 National Youth Competition


Participating clubs will be allocated an additional fi fty tickets each for purchase. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed in writing by the Club to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the club for allocation and distribution.





8.1.7 OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES (News Ltd, ARL, Channel 9, Fox Sports)

Each of the above mentioned companies are entitled to purchase twenty premium tickets and twenty tickets in category two.



OTHER LEAGUES

8.1.8 NSWRL Board


8.1.9 NSWRL Vice Presidents

Are entitled to purchase 4 premium tickets.

8.1.10 NSWRL Staff

All NSWRL staff are entitled to two premium tickets free of charge plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.

8.1.11 NSWRL (includes Academy, NSW Leagues Club etc.)

Is entitled to purchase 50 premium tickets and 350 tickets in category two. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed above) will be confi rmed in writing by NSWRL to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to NSWRL for allocation and distribution.




191

SECTION EIGHT

8.1.12 NSW Referee’s Association

Is entitled to twenty premium tickets free of charge and the option to purchase 130 tickets in category two. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed in writing by the NSW Referee’s Association to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the NSW Referee’s Association for allocation and distribution.



8.1.13 ARL Board Members

Are entitled to four premium tickets free of charge.

8.1.14 Selectors


8.1.15 Life Members

Each life member is entitled to two premium tickets free of charge.

8.1.16 CRL

Is entitled to purchase 150 premium tickets and 500 tickets in category two. The number of tickets required (with a maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed in writing by CRL to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to CRL for allocation and distribution.





8.1.17 QRL

Is entitled to purchase 50 premium tickets and 150 tickets in category two. The number of tickets required (with a maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed in writing by QRL to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to QRL for allocation and distribution.



8.1.18 NZRL, VRL & NTRL

Each of the above mentioned Leagues’ are entitled to purchase twenty premium tickets and twenty tickets in category two.




193

SECTION EIGHT

8.1.19 GROUP BOOKINGS

Group bookings will be available for groups of 20 or more through the NRL. Group bookers will be offered a preferential booking period and will be charged a service fee. A maximum number of tickets in the top 3 price categories has been allocated for this use.

8.1.20 Wheel chair Seats

All wheelchair spaces, carer seats and enhanced amenity seats are sold at full ticket value.

8.1.21 ADDITIONAL REQUESTS

Any additional requests by parties covered in this Policy will be satisfi ed wherever possible. These tickets must be paid for at the time of booking and will be issued from the next best available seating at time of payment.



8.1.2 FINALS SERIES TICKETING POLICYNRL

8.2.1 NRL Board

Each board member will receive four premium tickets free of charge plus the option to purchase additional tickets.

8.2.2 NRL Staff

All NRL staff (excluding part time or casual match day staff) are entitled to two premium tickets to Sydney matches (subject to availability) free of charge plus the option to purchase additional tickets.

PARTICIPATING TEAMS

8.2.3 NRL

Fifty Accreditation passes will be issued to each club for distribution to offi cials, players and coaching staff arriving via bus only. The pass is to be displayed at all times and is not transferable. Persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the club concerned. Passes should only be issued to persons described as Offi cials under the NRL Rules, players participating in the match and coaching staff. Other personnel (eg. Sponsors etc.) must be escorted into the dressing rooms after the match by an offi cial.

Each club will also be allocated 84 Ticketek tickets for players and offi cials. Tickets issued are not transferable and persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the club concerned.

Additional tickets will be allocated to the Season Ticket Holders of each Club. These tickets will be made available through all Ticketek outlets the Monday before the week of the Finals match. Any unsold tickets will be released for general sale on Tuesday of the week of the Finals match. Season Ticket Holders will need to present their season ticket in order to purchase Finals tickets. The season ticket number can be quoted over the telephone and the season pass presented on collection of ticket(s). Each season ticket entitles the member to purchase up to four fi nals tickets. Subject to venue capacity.


195

SECTION EIGHT




8.2.4 NSW Cup


Participating clubs will be allocated fi fty tickets for purchase. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed by the Club with the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the club for allocation and distribution.





8.2.5 National Youth Competition


Participating clubs will be allocated fi fty tickets for purchase. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed by the Club with the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the club for allocation and distribution.




Each of the above mentioned companies are entitled to purchase twenty premium tickets.




197

SECTION EIGHT

OTHER LEAGUES

8.2.7 NSWRL Staff

All NSWRL staff are entitled to two premium tickets free of charge to Sydney matches (subject to availability) plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets

8.2.8 NSW Referee’s Association Is entitled to twenty premium tickets free of charge to Sydney matches

(subject to availability). When distributing tickets a record of aisle and seat numbers must be kept as

this will be the only record of these allocations and may be needed should tickets be lost. Tickets may not be re-issued without this information. The Ticketek booking fee applies to all tickets purchased.


8.2.9 GROUP BOOKINGS Group bookings will be available for groups of 20 or more through the NRL.

Group bookers will be offered a preferential booking period and a service fee will be charged.

Tickets have been allocated in all price categories for this use.

8.2.10 ACADEMY PACKAGES A special package will be available to school and junior leagues through

NSWRL Academy. The offer is for 20 juniors and 5 adults at a special package price.

8.2.11 Wheel chair Seats All wheelchair spaces, carer seats and enhanced amenity seats are sold at full

ticket value.

8.2.12 ADDITIONAL REQUESTS Any additional requests by parties covered in this Policy will be satisfi ed

wherever possible. These tickets must be paid for at the time of booking and will be issued from the next best available seating at time of payment.



8.3 STATE OF ORIGIN TICKETING POLICYNRL

8.3.1 NRL Board

Each board member will receive four premium tickets free of charge to games in Sydney plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.

8.3.2 NRL Staff

All NRL staff (excluding part time or casual match day staff) are entitled to two premium tickets free of charge to games in Sydney plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.

PARTICIPATING TEAMS

8.3.3 State Of Origin Teams

Fifty Accreditation passes will be issued to each team for distribution to offi cials, players and coaching staff arriving via bus only. The pass is to be displayed at all times and is not transferable. Persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the team concerned. Passes should only be issued to persons described as Offi cials under the NRL Rules, players participating in the match and coaching staff. Other personnel (eg. Sponsors etc.) must be escorted into the dressing rooms after the match by an offi cial.


Each team will also be allocated 84 Ticketek tickets for players and offi cials. Tickets issued are not transferable and persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the team concerned.


199

SECTION EIGHT

8.3.4 Other matches






OTHER LEAGUES

8.3.6 NSWRL Board

Each board member will receive four premium tickets free of charge to games in Sydney plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.



8.3.8 NSWRL Staff

All NSWRL staff are entitled to two premium tickets free of charge to games in Sydney plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.








Is entitled to twenty premium tickets free of charge to games in Sydney and the option to purchase 130 tickets in category two. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed in writing by the NSW Referee’s Association to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the NSW Referee’s Association for allocation and distribution.




201

SECTION EIGHT



8.3.12 Selectors


8.3.13 Life Members

Each life member is entitled to two premium tickets free of charge.

8.3.14 CRL






8.3.15 QRL





Group bookings will be available for groups of 20 or more through the NRL. Group bookers will be offered a preferential booking period and will be charged a service fee. A Maximum number of Tickets in the top 3 price categories have been allocated for this use.

8.3.17 WHEEL CHAIR SEATS





203

SECTION EIGHT

8.4 TEST MATCH TICKETING POLICYNRL

8.4.1 NRL Board


8.4.2 NRL Staff

All NRL staff (excluding part time or casual match day staff) are entitled to two premium tickets free of charge plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.

PARTICIPATING TEAMS

8.4.3 Test Teams

Fifty Accreditation passes will be issued to each team for distribution to offi cials, players and coaching staff arriving via bus only. The pass is to be displayed at all times and is not transferable. Persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to the team concerned. Passes should only be issued to persons described as Offi cials under the NRL Rules, players participating in the match and coaching staff. Other personnel (eg. Sponsors etc.) must be escorted into the dressing rooms after the match by an offi cial.

Each team will also be allocated 84 Ticketek tickets for players and offi cials. Tickets issued are not transferable and persons attempting to gain entry without the pass, once identifi ed will incur a charge equivalent to the cost of ground entry. This charge will be invoiced to team concerned.



8.4.4 Other matches






OTHER LEAGUES

8.4.6 NSWRL Board

Each board member will receive four premium tickets free of charge to Sydney matches plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.




205

SECTION EIGHT

8.4.8 NSWRL Staff

All NSWRL staff are entitled to two premium tickets free of charge to Sydney matches (subject to availability) plus the option to purchase an additional four premium tickets.



When distributing tickets please keep a record of aisle and seat numbers as this will be the only record of these allocations and may be needed should tickets be lost. Tickets may not be re-issued without this information. The Ticketek booking fee applies to all tickets purchased.


8.4.10 NZRL







Is entitled to twenty premium tickets free of charge to Sydney matches and the option to purchase 130 tickets in category two. The number of tickets required (maximum specifi ed) will be confi rmed in writing by the NSW Referee’s Association to the NRL. This number of tickets will be sent to the NSW Referee’s Association for allocation and distribution.




Are entitled to four premium tickets free of charge to Sydney matches.

8.4.13 Selectors


8.4.14 Life Members

Each life member is entitled to two premium tickets free of charge to Sydney matches.


207

SECTION EIGHT

8.4.15 CRL




8.4.16 QRL


When distributing tickets a record of aisle and seat numbers must be kept as this will be the only record of these allocations and may be needed should tickets be lost. Tickets may not be re-issued without this information. The Ticketek booking fee applies to all tickets purchased. QRL should contact the NRL if they have unused tickets

Should the NRL be able to accept tickets for return, the Ticketek booking fee is non-refundable.



8.4.17 VRL & NTRL

Each of the above mentioned Leagues’ are entitled to purchase twenty premium tickets and twenty tickets in category two.

When distributing tickets a record of aisle and seat numbers must be kept as this will be the only record of these allocations and may be needed should tickets be lost. Tickets may not be re-issued without this information. The Ticketek booking fee applies to all tickets purchased. The Ticketek booking fee applies to all tickets. All tickets will be sold on the Ticketek no refunds or exchanges policy. Organisations should contact the NRL if they have unused tickets. Should the NRL be able to accept tickets for return, the Ticketek booking fee will be non-refundable.


Group bookings will be available for groups of 12 or more through the NRL. Group bookers will be offered a preferential booking period and will be charged a 20% premium on the ticket price for this service. A maximum number of tickets in the top 3 price categories has been allocated for this use.

8.4.19 Wheel chair Seats





209

SECTION EIGHT




SECTION 9

Club Medical Offi cer’s Handbook


211

SECTION NINE

9.1 INTRODUCTION

This Section of the NRL Operations Manual incorporates the National Rugby League Club Medical Offi cer’s Handbook that was originally compiled by Dr. Greg Winter, past Club Medical Offi cer to the North Queensland Cowboys.

This version of the Handbook has been edited and revised by the NRL Chief Medical Offi cer, Dr Ron Muratore and, importantly, contains a complete review of the management of concussion, and includes the use of Cogsgate and SCAT 2.

The Handbook should be carried by all Club Medical Offi cers – and allied personnel – and, for that reason, it is largely a standalone document. As such, a number of the provisions that appear earlier in the NRL Operations Manual are duplicated.

It should be noted that a number of the recommendations and advisories contained in the Handbook are not prescriptive and, in that sense, it functions as a reference guide which has been designed to assist Club Medical Offi cers of teams competing in the NRL Competition and the National Youth Competition (“Competitions”). However, because the Club Medical Offi cer’s Handbook forms part of the NRL Operations Manual and the NRL Operations Manual is a Schedule to the NRL Rules, its provisions have operative effect. Thus, where the Handbook imposes a particular obligation or duty on the part of Clubs and/or any persons bound by the NRL Rules - including Club Medical Offi cers and allied personnel – that obligation or duty must be properly discharged or performed, as the case may be, or a penalty for breach may be imposed by the NRL.

All Club Medical Offi cers are Club Offi cials within the meaning of the NRL Rules and, because of that, each is bound by the NRL Rules (including all Schedules and Guidelines issued pursuant to the NRL Rules). The expressions “Club Medical Offi cer” and “Club Offi cial” are defi ned in the NRL Rules in the following ways:

“Club Medical Offi cer” - means the medical practitioner appointed or nominated by a Club as its medical offi cer or who otherwise acts as that Club’s medical offi cer”.

“Club Offi cial” (includes) - (d) A member of the coaching or training staff of a Club including a football manager; (e) A member of the medical staff or consultancy of a Club; (h) A contractor or consultant to a Club; (i) A volunteer of a Club; and (k) Any person who acts, or purports to act, on behalf of a Club, whether as agent, spokesperson or otherwise and whether formally authorised by the Club to so act or not.”



In the event of any inconsistency between the NRL Rules, as amended from time to time, and the provisions of this Handbook, the NRL Rules shall prevail.

In the event of any inconsistency between the Leagues Anti-Doping Policy and the contents of this Handbook, the Leagues Anti-Doping Policy will prevail.

Nonetheless, the immediate assessment, management, ongoing investigation and decision to return to play following an injury, remains the sole responsibility of the Club Medical Offi cer subject only to the specifi c provisions of this Handbook.

9.2 Principal Obligations under the NRL Rules

Because Club Medical Offi cers are bound by the NRL Rules, all Club Medical Offi cers must famliarise themselves with the provisions of the NRL Rules that apply to them.

In the main, these provisions are to be found in the NRL Code of Conduct (which governs general conduct and has important provisions which regulate the making of public comments, gambling, alcohol, drugs and the like), the NRL Anti-Doping Rules (which adopts the Leagues Anti-Doping Policy), the NRL Anti-Vilifi cation Code (which prohibits all types of vilifi cation), the NRL Player Welfare Rules (which established the NRL-RLPA Education & Welfare Committee), the NRL Judiciary Code of Procedure (which contains provisions regarding concussion) and, of course, the NRL Operations Manual (which, in addition to Section Nine, contains a number of other provisions that every Club Medical Offi cer must comply with such as the rules regulating the provision of medical facilities, equipment and procedures).

These provisions must be observed at all times. Failure to comply with them may result in a Club Medical Offi cer and/or his Club being liable to the imposition of a penalty.


213

SECTION NINE

9.3 ROLE OF MEDICAL OFFICERS

In consultation with the Club Medical Offi cers, the Chief Medical Offi cer appointed to the Competitions by the NRL (“Chief Medical Offi cer”) shall:

• Implement all measures necessary to ensure the safety, health and welfare of Players;• Consult with the Club Medical Offi cers to ensure that all Players have access to the best

level of medical care and attention;• Liaise with the NRL, Club Medical Offi cers and the Clubs to ensure that there are adequate

facilities at all grounds for the optimal management of injury;• At the request of Club Medical Offi cers, assist in organisational and management

strategies in problem areas;• Act as a resource person to medical and paramedical staff at the Clubs;• Facilitate the ongoing educational initiatives of Club medical and paramedical staff;• Promote scientifi c research relevant to rugby league, and petition for funding for such

research;• Assist the medical offi cer appointed to any of the Representative Competitions to ensure

that adequate facilities for the management of a Player injury and crowd safety are present at all venues;

• In association with ASADA, continue to develop the Leagues Anti-Doping Policy;• Assist in the implementation at all Clubs of a common system for correlation of injury

statistics;• Monitor the central reporting of Player injury data and provide regular feedback to Club

Medical Offi cers on injury statistics;• In conjunction with Club Medical Offi cers, develop medical policies and advisories

appropriate to the conduct of Rugby League;• Assist in the provision of medical care and proper injury management for Match Offi cials

and, to this end, at the completion of each Match the referee’s trainer will consult with the Match Offi cials to determine if an injury was sustained during the Match. In the event of injury, the referee’s trainer will approach the Club Medical Offi cer of the Home Team and request him or her to examine and, if appropriate, treat the injured offi cial;

• In conjunction with Club Medical Offi cers, co-ordinate the development of a ‘Manual of Best Practice’ for use at all levels of Rugby League;

• Represent the interests of Club Medical Offi cers and paramedical staff in all matters relevant to the Competitions; and



• Perform such other tasks as may, in the reasonable opinion of the Chief Medical Offi cer, be necessary to advance the objects set out above.

The Chief Medical Offi cer of the NRL can be contacted on 0418 439 801.

9.4 Role of Club Medical Offi cers

Every Club Medical Offi cer shall:

• Have adequate, recognised training and expertise in the management of sports injuries;• Ensure the best level of care for all Players under his/her care;• Assume responsibility for the provision of adequate facilities and equipment for the injury

management of both Teams at the Home Ground;• Disseminate the contents of, and adhere to, all Policy Statements and Advisories issued

by the Chief Medical Offi cer;• Ensure all Players and relevant Club coaching and training staff are aware of the provisions

of the Leagues Anti-Doping Policy;• Ensure all Sports Trainers under their direction are:• Currently accredited under the SMA Sports Trainers Scheme;• Act in a professional and ethical manner at all times;• Regularly update their knowledge and skills;• Are adequately insured against negligence;• Assume responsibility for, and oversee the actions of, all paramedical staff working under

their direction;• Implement and monitor a system for the correlation of injury statistics in accordance with

the requirements of the Chief Medical Offi cer;• At all times, respect the confi dentiality of Players under his/her care.

The Club Medical Offi cer should preferably travel with the Team to all Matches.

If Clubs choose to utilize the services of another Medical Offi cer at Away Matches, the attendance of a medical practitioner with at least comparable expertise is essential.


215

SECTION NINE

9.5 Helicopter Evacuations

Section 1.9.4 of the NRL Operations Manual provides:

“Where a Club Medical Offi cer is of the opinion that a match should be stopped to allow the transportation of an injured Player by helicopter, the following procedures should be followed:a. The Chief Executives or their nominees, of both competing Clubs, as well

as the NRL Ground Manager, shall determine whether the match is to be stopped after consultation with Club Medical Offi cers.

b. If a helicopter has been called to attend the injury, all chairs, bolsters, signage or any objects which may become a danger when a helicopter lands, must be removed from the fi eld of play for the safety of all spectators.

c. Alternate landing areas for helicopters should be investigated and advised by Clubs to the NRL as this could prevent the temporary cessation of a match. The Home Team Offi cial should advise paramedics present of the location of the landing area for the helicopter once called to the Venue.

d. It is also suggested that Clubs make airport fl ares available to assist an approaching helicopter to make a safe landing at the Venue.”

9.6 Appointed Representative Team Medical Offi cers

Players selected for Teams in the Representative Competitions will be examined individually by the Medical Offi cer appointed to the representative fi xture (“Representative Medical Offi cer”) to determine their fi tness to compete/tour..

The Club Medical Offi cer shall have the right to contact the Representative Medical Offi cer with respect to any concerns regarding the fi tness to compete of a Player or Players under his care.

The Club Medical Offi cer shall have the right to rule a Player under his care unfi t to compete in a Representative Match. In these circumstances, the Player cannot compete in a Match in the NRL Competition or the National Youth Competition on the same weekend or week, as the case may be, as the Representative Match for which he has been ruled unfi t.



If the Representative Medical Offi cer is of the professional opinion that a Player is fi t to compete in a Representative Match aided by the use of local anaesthetic agents, he/she shall:

• Seek and obtain the fully informed consent of the Player, and

• Shall not proceed with such a course of action unless the issue has been discussed with the Club Medical Offi cer responsible for the Player’s care.

In the event of signifi cant injury sustained by a Player during a Representative Match, the Representative Medical Offi cer shall promptly contact the Club Medical Offi cer responsible for the Player’s care.

9.7 ROLE OF PARAMEDICAL PERSONNEL

9.7.1 Physiotherapist

The NRL Medical Offi cers’ Association has resolved “in the interests of best practice and taking into account the safety, health and welfare of the players under their care, a physiotherapist be part of each clubs medical team at all home and away games”.

The Physiotherapist engaged by a Club shall:

• Have adequate and recognized training and expertise in the treatment and rehabilitation of sports injuries;

• Provide treatment and rehabilitation programs for all injured Players;• Provide regular feedback to the Club Medical Offi cer and coaching staff on the progress

and attendance at treatment of all injured Players;• Liaise with the Club Medical Offi cer as well as the coaching and conditioning staff on

the implementation of rehabilitation programs and alternative training programs;• Provide advice on the use of protective equipment. For a physiotherapist to access the fi eld of play and act as a sports trainer, a minimum

qualifi cation of Level 1 Sports trainer (SMA) accreditation (or equivalent as determined by the NRL) is required.


217

SECTION NINE

For a physiotherapist to access the fi eld of play as a Head Sports Trainer, a minimum qualifi cation of Level 2 Sports Trainer (SMA) accreditation (or equivalent as determined by the NRL) is required.

Irrespective of other requirements determined from time to time by the Chief Medical Offi cer, a Physiotherapist acting as a Sports Trainer must hold a current resuscitation certifi cate.

9.7.2 Role of Sports Trainers

All Sports Trainers must be aware of, and fully comply with, Section 1.43 of the NRL Operations Manual.

The over-riding responsibility of Sports Trainers is to care for the health, welfare and safety of all Players under their care and within the bounds of their training and expertise. Sports Trainers have primary responsibility for the immediate on fi eld management of injured Players.As such, it is the duty of every Sports Trainer:• To be fully aware of procedures in the event of a major accident or injury;• To, at all times, act in accordance with the instructions given by the Club Medical Offi cer,

in all matters relating to diagnosis and management of injured Players;• Not enter the fi eld during play except when their services are required by injured Players;• To maintain their primary responsibility in immediate injury management. The Head

Sports Trainer shall not carry messages from coach to Players onto the fi eld;• To regularly update their knowledge by maintaining current accreditation under the SMA

Sports Trainers Scheme;• To provide tape and appropriate equipment at training and Matches;• To provide fi rst aid equipment at training and Matches;• To ensure ready access to and from the playing fi eld and dressing rooms for stretchers

and ambulance vehicles;• To carry at all times a mobile phone with the contact numbers for both Club Medical

Offi cers;• To ensure that dressing rooms, training venues and playing fi elds provide a safe

environment for Players at all times;• To maintain current and accurate records with respect to all Players under their care.



9.7.3 Qualifi cations of Sports Trainers

All personnel nominated by a Club as Sports Trainers are required to be:

• Registered with the NRL;• Certifi ed and hold current accreditation with Sports Medicine Australia (SMA) as sports

trainers, or ARL Level 1 or 2 FAO (First Aid Offi cer), if deemed appropriate by the Club Medical Offi cer.

It is the responsibility of the Club Medical Offi cer to ensure all trainers under their instruction meet these requirements.

9.7.4 Sports Trainers - On-Field Roles

9.7.4a Head Trainer

The Head Sports Trainer:

• Is designated by an orange shirt during Matches.• Is responsible for the immediate on-fi eld care and management of injured Players.• Must be a SMA certifi ed Level 2 sports trainer.

The Chief Medical Offi cer may at his discretion register a person with comparable qualifi cations to act as Head Sports Trainer (e.g. a Sports Physiotherapist with a current Resuscitation Certifi cate).

9.7.4b Assistant Sports Trainers

All other Sports Trainers (Blue or Yellow Shirts) must hold a minimum Level 1 Sports Trainers qualifi cation (SMA) with current accreditation, or they may have an ARL Level 1 or 2 FAO (First Aid Offi cer) certifi cate. .

The Blue Sports Trainer is designated by a blue shirt during matches. He may access the fi eld to:• Replace players;• Provide water to Players; and


219

SECTION NINE

• Carry messages from coaching staff.

The Yellow Sports Trainer is designated by a yellow shirt during matches. He may:

• Assist the Head Trainer in removing an injured Player from the fi eld of play;• Treat an injured Player if there is more than one Player injured and the Head Sports

Trainer is engaged in treating another injured Player; and• With the agreement of both of the Club Medical Offi cers and after notifying the Ground

Manager, the Yellow Sports Trainer may provide water to Players on days when there is a high risk of heat injury. SeeSection 1.10 of the NRL Operations Manual.

NOTE:

All personnel providing medical care to Teams, irrespective of professional group, should hold a current St. John’s or Surf Life Saving Resuscitation Certifi cate as a precondition for involvement at the NRL or NYC levels in Rugby League.

9.8 MEDICAL FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT

All Club Medical Offi cers must be aware of, and fully comply with, Section 1.19 of the NRL Operations Manual.

9.8.1 Dressing Room

Dressing Rooms for each Team must provide the following facilities, equipment and capabilities:

• Separate rooms for each team with adequate lighting (preferably angle poised light), hot and cold running water, sink, soap, wall dispenser and paper towels;

• A couch (for observing, assessing and treating Players with soft tissue injuries, minor head injuries, concussion, fractures and lacerations);

• Equipment for sterilization of instruments and adequate disposal of used materials (syringes, needles, contaminated waste disposal kit). These are considered essential;

• Chemicals and equipment to deal adequately with blood contamination of clothing, equipment and surfaces;



• Disposable surgical gloves;• A 2% detergent and 0.5% bleach solution;• Disposable paper towels;• Plastic bags;

• Telephone with the numbers for local hospitals and ambulances provided;• Unobstructed access for Players taken by stretcher from the fi eld; and• Ready access for ambulances at all times. The ground surface outside of the medical

rooms should be sealed for ease of access by ambulance vehicles.

Note:

Away Team Club Medical Offi cers should carry pre-prepared sterilized instruments (in suffi cient quantities for match day requirements)

9.8.2 Shared Triage Facility

At each ground there must be a well-equipped room of adequate size to enable adequate access for the medical staff for the management of serious injury that may require resuscitation and intensive treatment. Ideally, this facility should be situated between the two dressing rooms; enabling Club Medical Offi cers from the Home and Away Teams to assist each other.

Oxygen, suction, IV fl uids, equipment and essential drugs should be available in this room togetherwith:

• Sink and hand washing facilities;• Adequate lighting;• An examination couch;• A sharps container;• Designated contaminated waste disposal containers;• An autoclave;• Aussiescoop 425GT stretcher or equivalent;• A rigid cervical extrication collar - Stifneck or equivalent; and• A head immobilization device – ‘head bed’ or equivalent.


221

SECTION NINE

9.8.3 General

Each dressing room shall be suffi ciently capacious to accommodate two Teams between Matches, so as to avoid a Team standing in the corridor or outside the building while the room is in use.

If possible, each Club should provide another First Aid room for the care of injured spectators. This should accomodate Ambulance Service personnel, if available. Any seriously injured spectators should be treated in the ‘shared triage’ facility.

The Home and Away Teams must have a doctor present at all games. If the Club Medical Offi cer cannot attend a Match, it is the responsibility of the relevant Club to ensure that a suitably qualifi ed medical practitioner is in attendance.

Parking should be provided for the Club Medical Offi cers in close proximity to the dressing rooms. This is not just for Club Medical Offi cer’s convenience – it is to enable immediate access to the Club Medical Offi cer’s vehicle to retrieve essential drugs and equipment.

9.9 Hygiene

Players should be made aware of the potential danger of transferring infectious diseases, e.g. Hepatitis A, B, C and HIV.

No spitting is permitted, except into specifi cally controlled areas.

Contaminated and blood stained articles and dressings are to be placed in appropriate ‘contaminated dressing’ disposal bags.

Dressing room fl oors should be cleaned and mopped after the Team leaves the room.

Non-slip, non-porous fl ooring material should be in place.

Players must not share drink containers. Each Player should have his own drink container.

Shared containers may transmit meningococcal disease and other infectious diseases.



All Clubs shall be responsible for the cleaning and care of drink containers, which should be washed and soaked in Milton’s solution on a daily basis.

9.10 Autoclave

An autoclave is to be provided at all NRL venues.

9.11 Medical Supplies (Shared Triage Facility)

All ‘shared triage’ rooms must contain adequate supplies of the following:

� Laerdal or CIG resuscitator bag (e.g. Ambu-bag);� Face masks, black rubber, BOC patter or clear plastic, Laerdal pattern sizes;

3,4,5;� Airways, Guedel sizes 3,4,5;� Laryngoscope blades, fi bre optic, mackintosh or laryngeal mask sizes 3,4,5;� Endotracheal tubes, protex hilo, sizes 7,8,9;� Endotracheal tube introducer, adult;� Syringes 10ml, linen taped to rubber shod Harrison-Cripps forceps;� Linen tape, 2.5cm width by 3 metres. (To secure an endotracheal tube);� Trauma scissors (To remove clothing, cut tape);� Adrenaline 1:1000 in 1 ml, ampoule X 5; � Atropine 1.2mg ampoule X%;� Syringe 2ml X 5;� Alcohol swabs;� Intravenous cannula 16g X 5;� Intravenous cannula 18g X 5;� Tourniquet;� Giving set X 2; � Hartmann’s Solution 1000ml X 2 (In extreme conditions of temperature and

humidity 10 x 1 litre IVI fl uids are to be provided by the home club medical offi cer);

� Tape, zinc oxide, leucoplast, 1cm width X1 roll; and� Oxy Viva.


223

SECTION NINE

Medical Supplies (Club Medical Offi cers)

Club Medical Offi cers are responsible for the provision of:

� Pethidine / Narcotic analgesics;� Valium;� Maxalon; and� Other drugs as required.

Check List of Club Medical Facilities and Equipment

CLUB: _______________________________________ (√ if present)Triage room/shared facility Easy access for both team MO’s Resuscitation equipment, IV fl uids/drugs Oxygen and suction Russell extraction device/KED/Head bed/Stiff neck collar Standard stretcher/Jordan frame/spinal board/scoop Unobstructed stretcher access from fi eld to dressing room/triage area Unobstructed ambulance access to triage area/dressing rooms Phone with permanent listing of Ambulance/rescue helicopter/local hospital Adequate lighting/wall lighting Sink/hand wash/dry facilities Facility to dispose of needles/syringe/contaminated waste Autoclave Each dressing room Sink/hand-washing/drying facilities Couch with adequate lighting Facility to dispose needles/syringes/contaminated waste Non-slip fl oor 3 rub down tables 3 strapping tables Facility for spectator medical attention Designated parking for MO’s (home/away) Ice making machine available to both teams

Any problems encountered at grounds should be notifi ed to the CMO of the NRL



9.12 Team Changes

Section 1.39 of the NRL Operations Manual includes the following provisions relevant to the role of Club Medical Offi cers with respect to Team Changes:

“Each Club’s fi nal Team listing must be given to the NRL Ground Manager one hour prior to the advertised kick off time (Section 1.39.1)

In respect to the withdrawal of a Player after the fi nalization of the NRL Teams, the following procedures will apply:

• If a Player is nominated at the correct time (60 minutes prior) but subsequently becomes ill or is injured prior to the Team taking the fi eld, then the illness or injury is to be reported to the NRL Ground Manager;

• The Ground Manager will consult with the Club Medical Offi cer for the Team and the Club Medical Offi cer for the opposing Team. The opposing team Club Medical Offi cer has the right to examine the Player if deemed necessary;

• If both Club Medical Offi cers agree that the Player is unfi t to participate in the Match, he may be withdrawn without penalty and a substitute can be added to the 17-man squad;

• If a substitute player is required, the NRL Ground Manager will notify the media, and ground announcer advising them of the reasons for the Player’s withdrawal.

The above process must be observed in all circumstances even if this means a Team taking the fi eld with 12 players until the Club Medical Offi cers and the NRL Ground Manger have authorised a change to the starting Team of 17 players, or an Interchange Player joins the game after kick off. Teams must not delay entering the fi eld under any circumstances.

This rule cannot be used in the case of a Player who is carrying an existing injury or illness and the coach wants to give him until the last minute to make a decision on his fi tness to play” (Section 1.39).


225

SECTION NINE

9.13 Club Medical Offi cers - Entry Onto The Field of Play

The Head Sports Trainer may enter the fi eld of play at any time to attend to an injured Player.

It is the Head Sports Trainer’s responsibility to immediately assess an injured Player and he/she may:

1. Request the referee to cease play in accordance with rule 1.43.6;

2. Signal for the Club Medical Offi cer to enter the fi eld of play to assist in the care of a seriously injured Player;

[The accepted signal is for the Head Sports Trainer to stand and raise both arms vertically]

3. Alternatively, the referee may use his discretion and cease play immediately in the event of serious injury and call the Club Medical Offi cer onto enter the fi eld of play.

9.14 Bleeding Players

Section 1.3 of the NRL Operations Manual includes the following provisions relevant to the role of Club Medical Offi cers and Sports Trainers with respect to Players who are bleeding or who have otherwise been contaminated by blood (e.g., person, clothing, equipment):

“If the referee notices a bleeding or blood-contaminated Player he will immediately stop play and call ‘time-out’ and signal to the team trainer to attend to the Player.

The team trainer will immediately enter the fi eld of play to assess whether the Player can bequickly treated on the fi eld or whether he will require treatment off the fi eld.

If the trainer advises that the Player can be treated on the fi eld, the referee will instruct the Player to drop out behind play for that purpose and the match will immediately recommence.



If the trainer advises the referee that he will have to treat the Player off the fi eld, the match will not restart until the Player has left the fi eld. The Player may be interchanged, or alternatively the Team can elect to temporarily play on with 12 Players. (Note: other than for the initial assessment, the match will not be held up while the bleeding Player receives treatment or is interchanged).

If the referee stops play twice for the same Player and the same wound, the Player must be taken from the fi eld for treatment and either interchanged or the Team may elect to play on with 12 Players until the bleeding player returns.

The referee will hold the game up to replace a bleeding Player, but a trainer must fi rst advise the referee that an interchange is going to take place” (Section 1.3.1).

9.15 Treatment of Cuts

Any Player who is bleeding and requires treatment by way of either stitches or staples, must be taken to the Team dressing room or shared medical facility so this procedure can be conducted out of the view of the general public. It is obviously not a good look for the game to have graphic images of these procedures shown on either television or the venue video screen, and it also constitutes an unnecessary and public incursion into the privacy of the Player. After the treatment the wound must also be bandaged or covered to protect the injury, to eliminate the risk of further bleeding and to prevent the potential risk of transmission of blood-borne infectious diseases (Section 1.3.2).

9.16 Management of Blood Contaminated Clothing and Equipment

The following procedures for the optimal management of blood contaminated clothing and equipment should be followed where possible:

• A spray container with 15mls of standard household dishwashing liquid and 32mls of standard household bleach in 250mls of water is to be standard equipment for each Team, on the sideline and in the dressing room;

• Minor contamination of clothing and equipment must be sprayed, and thoroughly soaked with the solution immediately the Player leaves the fi eld;


227

SECTION NINE

• The decontaminating solution should be in contact with the blood spill for between one and fi ve minutes; and

• Prior to the Player returning to the fi eld, the area should be thoroughly rinsed off with water.

All but minor blood contamination of clothing and equipment must result in the contaminatedclothing and equipment being replaced prior to the Player returning to the fi eld.

As standard household bleach deteriorates with time, the decontamination solution must be made up on the day of the game.

Do not use bleach that has passed its expiry date.

A standard medicine glass can be used to ensure that correct volumes of detergent and bleach areadded to 250mls of water.

A 0.5% concentration of bleach is not considered hazardous. However care must be taken to avoid contact with eyes or wounds and prolonged contact with the skin. Thorough rinsing with water will further reduce any risk.

It has been shown that the 0.5% concentration of bleach has minimal effect on the colour of a Rugby League jersey.

Reference: “Determination of the optimal method of decontamination of a rugby league jerseyimpregnated with HIV-Infected blood.” 19th January 2001. Centre for Immunology, St. Vincent’sHospital, Sydney.

Lastly, Section 1.3.3 of the NRL Operations Manual provides as follows:

“Contaminated ClothingIn any case where a player’s person, clothing or equipment has been contaminated by blood, whether through a wound to himself or through contact with a wounded player, the referee shall direct the team trainer to enter the fi eld of play to attend to that player by taking immediate steps to ensure that the player is free of any



blood contamination before that player shall be permitted by the referee to rejoin play. Until those steps have been taken, the player shall, at the minimum, drop out behind play. Contaminated clothing and / or equipment should be treated with a solution of detergent and bleach, as outlined in clause 5.1.6.”

9.17 Protective Equipment/Padding/Bracing

Protective equipment, padding or bracing is permitted in Rugby League. The purpose of such equipment is to potentially reduce the risk of injury to a Player (Headgear, Shoulder Pads, Sternum Protectors, etc.), or to assist in the short-term protection of an injured body part (Forearm, Thumb, etc.) following return to play after injury.

Materials used in the construction of such equipment should pose no risk of injury to another Player.

Club Medical Offi cers must ensure that protective equipment worn by Players under their care does not pose a potential risk of injury to an opposing Player.

In general, Club Medical Offi cers should advise the Team physiotherapist that braces worn on thumbs or fi ngers should be made from thermoplastic of a thickness of 2.4mm or less. Thermoplastic used in the application of arm-guards should not exceed 3.2mm in thickness.

All braces or guards should be covered in an impact absorbent foam (12mm or equivalent).

No sharp edges should be exposed and buckles are not permitted.All protective equipment should be of minimal dimensions, designed and applied only to protect the injured body part.The ultimate decision as to the safety of padding, bracing and protective equipment lies in the handsof the Match referee. Such equipment may be modifi ed or removed at the discretion of the referee.

In case of dispute, the protective equipment may be forwarded to the Chief Medical Offi cer for assessment.


229

SECTION NINE

9.18 NRL Anti-Doping Rules

Club Medical Offi cers must possess a current copy of the Leagues Anti-Doping Policy and be familiar with its contents. Its provisions must be observed at all times.

9.18.1 Prohibited Substances and Methods

The NRL maintains a List of Prohibited Substances and Methods.

This List is the World Anti-Doping Authority (WADA) List, as amended from time to time.

9.18.2 Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE)

If a Player is diagnosed with a medical condition necessitating the therapeutic use of a substanceon the WADA Prohibited List, the Club Medical Offi cer must make application to the Australian Sports Drug Medical Advisory Committee (ASDMAC) for approval.

If a TUE is sought for a Player, the Chief Medical Offi cer should be notifi ed of the application.

TUE Forms can be downloaded from the following websites:

www.asada.gov.auwww.asdmac.gov.auwww.wada-ama.org

The Secretary of ASDMAC, can be contacted during offi ce hours on: (02) 6222 4232.

NB: if a Player is suffering from an acute or life-threatening medical condition the Club Medical Offi cer’s prime responsibility is to the proper care and management of the Player. Urgent medical intervention should not be delayed due to concerns regarding the use of a Prohibited Substance.

In matters relating to ASDMAC, Dr. Ron Muratore can be contacted on: 0418 439 801.



9.18.3 Beta-2 Agonists

The use of Salbutamol and Salmetorol no longer require “declaration of use”.

Terbutaline still requires a full TUE (Therapeutic Use Exemption).

Efomoterol is now allowed to a maximal daily dosage of 36 mcg.

The 2012 Monitoring program includes in competition use of Nicotine, Hydrocodone and Tramadol.

Out of competition –Glucocorticosteroids

9.18.4 Glucocorticosteroids

Glucocorticosteroids that are administered by intra-articular, periarticular, peritendinous, epidural, intradermal or inhalation routes no longer require “declaration of use”.

Glucocorticosteroids administered orally, rectally, intravenously or intramuscularly are prohibitedin competition and require a TUE (from ASDMAC)

9.18.5 Pseudoephedrine

Is now on the WADA Prohibited List above levels of 150 µg per ml. This level can be reached if a Player takes 240 mg of the medication. Recommendation - advise Players NOT to take this on matchday.

9.18.6 Platelet rich plasma

Use is no longer prohibited.

9.18.7 Glycerol

Is now prohibited.


231

SECTION NINE

9.18.8 Methylhexanamine

Methylhexanamine (found in a number of supplements) is now a specifi ed substance.

9.18.9 Oxygen

The use of oxygen (on the sideline) is no longer prohibited.

9.18.10 Intravenous Post-Game Rehydration

Intravenous post-game rehydration prior to a Doping Control Test is prohibited except when received for hospital admissions, that is:

* The use of a drip for rehydration will require a TUE (this should not preclude the emergency use of intravenous fl uids if the athlete is severely dehydrated i.e. greater than 5% loss of pre-game/competition body weight and oral rehydration cannot be tolerated due to vomiting, and/or

* The Player is hyperthermic (T >40.5 C rectal temperature)In such circumstances, the Player should have an IV line inserted and transported to a hospital or well-equipped medical centre.

Doping control selection protocols allow for this athlete to be replaced by a “reserve” selection.

In general, oral rehydration is effective, safer and preferable. Intravenous infusions of > 50mls require a TUE. In general these measures would be subject to a retroactive TUE.

9.19 INJURY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

It would be ideal if all Clubs used the NRL Injury Surveillance System (currently Athletic Logic), but not all Clubs are entirely satisfi ed with the system and some wish to use different systems. This is acceptable as long as injury data is entered and submitted regularly and in such a format that can be integrated into the Athletic Logic system to enable Donna O’Connor to prepare meaningful reports and statistics.

Club Medical Offi cers are urged to ensure that the contact details (e-mail, work and mobile telephone numbers) of the injury data entry person are forwarded to forwarded to Donna O’Connor at: [email protected] . Mobile: 0419 663 896.)



NRL INJURY SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMPlease fi ll in the below form to inform us of any problems you may be having with the NRL Injury Surveillance System.This information will be used to ensure that we assist you as quickly as possible.

Club Name

Data entry person

Contact Numbers (Work):(Mobile):

E-mail Address

How regularly are you entering data? (e.g., weekly, monthly etc.)

Are you entering data on a PC or Lap Top?

Is the computer being used a personal computer or a work computer located at your Club?

If you are having diffi culty with entering data on a PC or Lap Top, please list the problems.

If it is necessary for you to contact Alex Vaziri for assistance, what is a convenient day and time for him to ring?

Do you prefer contact on the work number, mobile or e-mail?

Please detail any complaints or any suggestions as to how the database or injury data entry can be improved?

NRL Injury Surveillance System. All Clubs have agreed to assist by entering injury data. Donna O’Connor at: [email protected] . Mobile: 0419 663 896

REGULAR FEEDBACK, ON A MONTHLY BASIS, IS REQUESTED UTILIZING THE ABOVE FORM


233

SECTION NINE

POLICY STATEMENT

1 INFECTIOUS DISEASES

All Clubs and persons bound by these Rules must otherwise comply in all respects with the provisions of the following policy statement.

All Club Medical Offi cers and allied personnel must be aware of, and fully comply with, Section 5.1 of the NRL Operations Manual which incorporates Guidelines regarding Blood Borne Infectious Diseases.

A number of blood-borne infections can be transmitted during body contact and in collision sports. The more serious infections include Hepatitis and HIV (AIDS) infection. It is important to remember that more common diseases, such as the “common cold”, fl u and herpes simplex may be spread during body contact sports. These diseases may be spread by direct contact between broken skin or mucous membrane and infected blood, or other body fl uid and substances. There is no current evidence that sweat, urine or tears will transmit these infectious viruses.

The following groups of people involved in contact sports should be informed of this policy and adopt its recommendations:

� Club Medical Offi cers;� Sports Trainers;� Physiotherapists;� Other medical staff;� Coaching and conditioning staff;� Team managers;� Administrators; and� Players.

The following recommendations MAY REDUCE the risk of transmitting infectious diseases.



Players

It is the responsibility of all Players to maintain strict personal hygiene at all times, in all activities both on and off the fi eld. (This includes safe sex by use of condoms)

It is strongly recommended that all Players be vaccinated against Hepatitis B.

All Players with a past medical history of an infectious disease are advised to seek confi dential advice and clearance prior to playing.

All open cuts and abrasions MUST be reported and treated immediately.

Team Areas

It is the Club’s responsibility to keep dressing rooms clean and tidy.In particular every Club must provide:

• Hand basins, toilets and showers;• Adequate soap and paper towels;• Rubbish bins, emptied regularly; and• Detergent/bleach solution available for cleaning up blood spills.

Communal bathing areas (spas) should be discouraged. These can be a source of infection e.g. Legionnaire’s Disease, as well as spreading blood borne disease.

The practice of spitting or urinating in team areas is PROHIBITED.

All clothing, equipment and surfaces contaminated by blood must be treated as potentially infectious and cleaned immediately.

When cleaning up blood and body fl uids the following universal precautions must be used:� Disposable gloves to be worn;� If spill is large, confi ne and contain the spill with absorbent towels;� Place absorbent paper towels in sealed plastic bag and dispose with the

normal garbage; and


235

SECTION NINE

� Wipe the site with disposable towels soaked in a solution of 2% detergent and 0.5% bleach.

Routine laundry washing is suffi cient for washing of linen/clothes (use hot water).

Disposable gloves should be worn when handling blood-soiled linen/clothing or equipment.

Disposable gloves should be discarded when peeled, cracked or torn.

Transport of blood-soiled linen/clothes to the laundry MUST be in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent contamination of other clothes.

Sharing of towels, shaving razors, face washers and drink containers is PROHIBITED.

Meningococcal Disease

If Players share contaminated drink containers, this practice can transmit Meningococcal Disease, a highly infectious and potentially fatal disease. Special care must also be taken to avoid sharing of drink containers as well as sponges, towels and personal toiletries.

Minimising the Risk of HIV and Viral Hepatitis Transmission

The following steps are recommended by SMA and ANCARD to help reduce the possibility of HIV or viral hepatitis transmission:• Those attending bleeding Players MUST wear disposable gloves. These gloves MUST NOT

BE RE-USED;• Disposable resuscitation devices should be used for all CPR and mouth to mouth

resuscitation;• If a Player has a skin lesion he MUST report this to the Club Medical Offi cer and/or the

Head Sports Trainer;• Skin lesions must to be cleaned and covered securely;• If a Player is bleeding on the fi eld and cannot be immediately attended to by the Team

Trainer, he MUST leave the fi eld until the bleeding is stopped and the wound cleaned appropriately and covered with a dressing.



Actions in event of blood spill

(A) Skin is penetrated or broken

• Clean the wound with soap and water only; and

• If water is unavailable, a 70% alcohol hand rub can be used;

(B) Blood is in contact with skin

• Wash the area with soap and water;

(C) Blood gets into Player’s eye

• Rinse the eye gently with water or normal saline for several minutes; and

• If a Player is wearing contact lenses, leave lens in situ while eye is being irrigated. Then remove the lens and clean in the normal way. Contact lens can then be placed back in the eye:

(D) Blood in the mouth

• Spit it out; and

• Rinse mouth with water several times.

NOTE:

Prior to a Player returning to the fi eld, all blood contaminated clothing or equipment MUST be replaced, using universal precautions.

Where it is known that a Player has come into contact with blood and there is concern regarding infection, a follow up visit to an infectious disease physician or HIV clinic is mandatory. The Club Medical Offi cer must ensure that this occurs.


237

SECTION NINE

Referees and Game Offi cials

It is strongly recommended that ALL Match Offi cials who may come into contact with blood be vaccinated against Hepatitis B.

During a Match:

• All open cuts and abrasions must be reported immediately;

• All contaminated clothing and equipment must be replaced prior to the Player being allowed to resume play;

• If bleeding should recur, the above procedures must be repeated; and

• If bleeding cannot be controlled and wound securely covered, the Player must not continue in the game.

Education

All Players MUST be educated with respect to the risks and precautions that are required to prevent and minimize the transmission of infectious diseases.

[This policy was reprinted with the kind permission of Sports Medicine Australia.]



POLICY STATEMENT

2. IMMUNISATION


It is recommended that all Players be immunised against:

� Tetanus;� Diphtheria;� Poliomyelitis; and� Hepatitis B.

Immunisation against the infl uenza virus and Hepatitis A should also be considered.

Immunisation against Swine Flu (H1N1) is recommended.

Each Player’s immunisation status should be reviewed regularly. Ideally, all Players should carry an“adult immunisation record card” to facilitate such reviews and assist in inter-Club transfers.Some consideration should be given to a Players history of common childhood viral illnesses and/or their history of childhood immunisations, especially for;

� Rubella;� Measles;� Mumps; and� Chickenpox.

Note:

A signifi cant proportion of cases of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases occur in the 18+ age group.


239

SECTION NINE

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:

Immunisations Recommendations

1. Splenectomised players:

• Infl uenza vaccine• Pnuemovax• Haemophilis infl uenza type B• Meningococcal vaccine

2. Overseas travel

• Typhoid• Hepatitis A• Meningococcal vaccine

3. Tuberculosis

BCG if risk of exposure, Check Mantoux test fi rst.

Booster Schedule

1. GeneralADT 5-10 yearsPolio 10 yearsHep. B 5 yearsInfl uenza yearly

2. Splenectomised playerPnuemovax 5 yearsHiB 5years



POLICY STATEMENT

3 MANAGEMENT OF CONCUSSION


The following recommendations are derived from the “Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport: the Third International Conference on Concussion in Sport” held in Zurich, November 2008” (BJSM, 2009:43, Supplement 1, 176-184 McCrory et al.)

Concussion: is defi ned as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces. It is accepted that:

1. Concussion may be caused by either a direct blow to the head, face, neck or elsewhere on the body with an impulsive force transmitted to the head;

2. Concussion typically results in rapid onset of short-lived impairment of neurologic function that resolves spontaneously; and

3. Concussion results in a graded set of clinical and cognitive symptoms which may or may not involve loss of consciousness.

It is recommended that the SCAT2 tool (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 2) be used in the clinical assessment of concussion on game day. This is freely available from the BJSM website.

The following is to be the protocol for the management of concussion in the Competitions:1. Establish pre-season baselines for normal Psychometric state with the use of

Cogstate. If on the rare occasion that a baseline cannot be achieved, obtain formal neuropsychometric testing;

2. Preseason education of Players, coaching and training staff to emphasise that:a) Concussion is not a trivial injury;b) Uncooperative behaviour is a symptom of concussion;c) The failure on the part of a Player to answer questions asked by the

Sports Trainer will be an indication of uncooperative behaviour, in which event the Player will have to be removed from the fi eld of play for further assessment.


241

SECTION NINE

Cogstate testing should be done on all players in pre-season, post injury until recovered (as necessary), at the end of each season and on separation from the club. We will thus be able to monitor a player’s psychometric state over time.

3. In the event of a concussive episode on the fi eld, the assessment by the Sports Trainer should include:

a) Maddock’s modifi ed questions and, in this regard, it is worth noting that standard orientation questions (e.g. time, place, person) have been shown to be unreliable in the sporting situation when compared to memory assessment;

b) Balance; andc) Cooperation

Failure of any of these is an indication for removal from the fi eld for further assessment.

Note: If the Player is unconscious or has neck pain, he should be immobilised and treated as a spinal injury with transport to the nearest trauma hospital for imaging.

4. Sideline (dressing room) assessment (by Club Medical Offi cer):

a) History of event and concussive symptoms;b) Cervical and neurological examination;c) Sideline neuropsychometric testing if symptom-free (SCAT 2);d) Exercise challenge;e) Reassess the symptoms or repeat sideline testing.f) If after sideline/dressing room assessment by the Club Medical Offi cer the Player is diagnosed with “concussion” he should not be allowed to return to the fi eld of play on the same day;

If a Player returns to the fi eld of play after assessment, he must be regularly re-evaluated by the Head Sports Trainer.



Younger players (<18) should be treated more conservatively and should not return to play (or training) until assessed by a medical practitioner.

5. Post-concussion assessment:

a) Post-Match:

• Review regarding ongoing symptoms;• Assign the Player to the care of a family member (for a home game),

or his roommate (for away game);• Give the caregiver, a head injury sheet (e.g. SCAT, UPMS) and advise

them to monitor the Player particularly over the next four hours;• Advise the carer of the warning signs and symptoms of deterioration;• Advise the Player to avoid alcohol and non-steroidal anti-infl ammatory

medication the day after injury;• following a concussive episode the Player should not be allowed to

drive that day.

b) The next day and the following week:

• On the day after the injury, perform a neurological examination and enquire about ongoing symptoms;

• When the Player is asymptomatic, perform neuropsychometric testing and when this has returned to normal, they may begin a gradual return to sport;

• in the recovery period is important to emphasise to the athlete that the Player requires physical and cognitive rest. Activities which require concentration e.g. videogames, text messaging, scholastic work, may make the symptoms worse and may delay recovery;

• In the presence of concussive symptoms persisting for greater than 10 days, any focal neurological signs, post concussion convulsions or deteriorating symptoms, then neurological imaging, formal neuropsychometric assessment, and the possibility of pharmacological therapy or sports psychological assistance may need to be considered.


243

SECTION NINE

none mild moderate severe

Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 2

Symptom Evaluation

What is the SCAT2?1

This tool represents a standardized method of evaluating injured athletes for concussion and can be used in athletes aged from 10 years and older. It supersedes the original SCAT published in 20052. This tool also enables the calculation of the Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC)3, 4 score and the Maddocks questions5 for sideline concussion assessment.

Instructions for using the SCAT2The SCAT2 is designed for the use of medical and health professionals. Preseason baseline testing with the SCAT2 can be helpful for interpreting post-injury test scores. Words in Italics throughout the SCAT2 are the instructions given to the athlete by the tester.

This tool may be freely copied for distribtion to individuals, teams, groups and organizations.

What is a concussion? A concussion is a disturbance in brain function caused by a direct or indirect force to the head. It results in a variety of non-specific symptoms (like those listed below) and often does not involve loss of consciousness. Concussion should be suspected in the presence of any one or more of the following:

Any athlete with a suspected concussion should be REMOVED FROM PLAY, medically assessed, monitored for deterioration (i.e., should not be left alone) and should not drive a motor vehicle.

SCAT2

How do you feel? You should score yourself on the following symptoms, based on how you feel now.

Headache 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

“Pressure in head” 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Neck Pain 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Nausea or vomiting 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Dizziness 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Blurred vision 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Balance problems 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Sensitivity to light 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Sensitivity to noise 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Feeling slowed down 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Feeling like “in a fog“ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

“Don’t feel right” 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Difficulty concentrating 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Difficulty remembering 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Fatigue or low energy 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Confusion 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Drowsiness 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Trouble falling asleep (if applicable) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

More emotional 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Irritability 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Sadness 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Nervous or Anxious 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Total number of symptoms (Maximum possible 22)

Symptom severity score (Add all scores in table, maximum possible: 22 x 6 = 132)

Do the symptoms get worse with physical activity? Y N

Do the symptoms get worse with mental activity? Y N

Overall rating

If you know the athlete well prior to the injury, how different is the

athlete acting compared to his / her usual self? Please circle one response.

no different very different unsure

Name

Sport / team

Date / time of injury

Date / time of assessment

Age Gender n M n F

Years of education completed

Examiner



Cognitive & Physical Evaluation

Symptom score (from page 1)

22 minus number of symptoms of 22

Physical signs scoreWas there loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness? Y NIf yes, how long? minutesWas there a balance problem / unsteadiness? Y N

Physical signs score (1 point for each negative response) of 2

Glasgow coma scale (GCS)Best eye response (E)No eye opening 1

Eye opening in response to pain 2

Eye opening to speech 3

Eyes opening spontaneously 4

Best verbal response (V)No verbal response 1

Incomprehensible sounds 2

Inappropriate words 3

Confused 4

Oriented 5

Best motor response (M)No motor response 1

Extension to pain 2

Abnormal flexion to pain 3

Flexion / Withdrawal to pain 4

Localizes to pain 5

Obeys commands 6

Glasgow Coma score (E + V + M) of 15

GCS should be recorded for all athletes in case of subsequent deterioration.

Sideline Assessment – Maddocks Score“I am going to ask you a few questions, please listen carefully and give your best effort.”

Modified Maddocks questions (1 point for each correct answer)

At what venue are we at today? 0 1

Which half is it now? 0 1

Who scored last in this match? 0 1

What team did you play last week / game? 0 1

Did your team win the last game? 0 1

Maddocks score of 5

Maddocks score is validated for sideline diagnosis of concussion only and is not included in SCAT 2 summary score for serial testing.

Cognitive assessment Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC)Orientation (1 point for each correct answer)

What month is it? 0 1

What is the date today? 0 1

What is the day of the week? 0 1

What year is it? 0 1

What time is it right now? (within 1 hour) 0 1

Orientation score of 5

Immediate memory“I am going to test your memory. I will read you a list of words and when I am done, repeat back as many words as you can remember, in any order.”

Trials 2 & 3:“I am going to repeat the same list again. Repeat back as many words as you can remember in any order, even if you said the word before.“

Complete all 3 trials regardless of score on trial 1 & 2. Read the words at a rate of one per second. Score 1 pt. for each correct response. Total score equals sum across all 3 trials. Do not inform the athlete that delayed recall will be tested.

List Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Alternative word list

elbow 0 1 0 1 0 1 candle baby fingerapple 0 1 0 1 0 1 paper monkey pennycarpet 0 1 0 1 0 1 sugar perfume blanketsaddle 0 1 0 1 0 1 sandwich sunset lemonbubble 0 1 0 1 0 1 wagon iron insectTotal

Immediate memory score of 15

ConcentrationDigits Backward: “I am going to read you a string of numbers and when I am done, you repeat them back to me backwards, in reverse order of how I read them to you. For example, if I say 7-1-9, you would say 9-1-7.”

If correct, go to next string length. If incorrect, read trial 2. One point possible foreach string length. Stop after incorrect on both trials. The digits should be read at the rate of one per second.

Alternative digit lists

4-9-3 0 1 6-2-9 5-2-6 4-1-5 3-8-1-4 0 1 3-2-7-9 1-7-9-5 4-9-6-86-2-9-7-1 0 1 1-5-2-8-6 3-8-5-2-7 6-1-8-4-37-1-8-4-6-2 0 1 5-3-9-1-4-8 8-3-1-9-6-4 7-2-4-8-5-6

Months in Reverse Order: “Now tell me the months of the year in reverse order. Start with the last month and go backward. So you’ll say December, November ... Go ahead”

1 pt. for entire sequence correct

Dec-Nov-Oct-Sept-Aug-Jul-Jun-May-Apr-Mar-Feb-Jan 0 1

Concentration score of 5

1

4

5

2

3

3 McCrea M. Standardized mental status testing of acute concussion. Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine. 2001; 11: 176-181

4 McCrea M, Randolph C, Kelly J. Standardized Assessment of Concussion: Manual for administration, scoring and interpretation. Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA.

5 Maddocks, DL; Dicker, GD; Saling, MM. The assessment of orientation following concussion in athletes. Clin J Sport Med. 1995;5(1):32–3

6 Guskiewicz KM. Assessment of postural stability following sport-related concussion. Current Sports Medicine Reports. 2003; 2: 24-30

1 This tool has been developed by a group of international experts at the 3rd International Consensus meeting on Concussion in Sport held in Zurich, Switzerland in November 2008. The full details of the conference outcomes and the authors of the tool are published in British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2009, volume 43, supplement 1. The outcome paper will also be simultaneously co-published in the May 2009 issues of Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Journal of Athletic Training, Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, Journal of Science & Medicine in Sport, Neurosurgery, Scandinavian Journal of Science & Medicine in Sport and the Journal of Clinical Sports Medicine.

2 McCrory P et al. Summary and agreement statement of the 2nd International Conference on Concussion in Sport, Prague 2004. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2005; 39: 196-204


245

SECTION NINE

Balance examinationThis balance testing is based on a modified version of the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS)6. A stopwatch or watch with a second hand is required for this testing.

Balance testing“I am now going to test your balance. Please take your shoes off, roll up your pant legs above ankle (if applicable), and remove any ankle taping (if applicable). This test will consist of three twenty second tests with different stances.“

(a) Double leg stance: “The first stance is standing with your feet together with your hands on your hips and with your eyes closed. You should try to maintain stability in that position for 20 seconds. I will be counting the number of times you move out of this position. I will start timing when you are set and have closed your eyes.“

(b) Single leg stance: “If you were to kick a ball, which foot would you use? [This will be the dominant foot] Now stand on your non-dominant foot. The dominant leg should be held in approximately 30 degrees of hip flexion and 45 degrees of knee flexion. Again, you should try to maintain stability for 20 seconds with your hands on your hips and your eyes closed. I will be counting the number of times you move out of this position. If you stumble out of this position, open your eyes and return to the start position and continue balancing. I will start timing when you are set and have closed your eyes.“

(c) Tandem stance: “Now stand heel-to-toe with your non-dominant foot in back. Your weight should be evenly distributed across both feet. Again, you should try to maintain stability for 20 seconds with your hands on your hips and your eyes closed. I will be counting the number of times you move out of this position. If you stumble out of this position, open your eyes and return to the start position and continue balancing. I will start timing when you are set and have closed your eyes.”

Balance testing – types of errors1. Hands lifted off iliac crest2. Opening eyes3. Step, stumble, or fall4. Moving hip into > 30 degrees abduction5. Lifting forefoot or heel6. Remaining out of test position > 5 sec

Each of the 20-second trials is scored by counting the errors, or deviations from the proper stance, accumulated by the athlete. The examiner will begin counting errors only after the individual has assumed the proper start position. The modified BESS is calculated by adding one error point for each error during the three 20-second tests. The maximum total number of errors for any single condition is 10. If a athlete commits multiple errors simultaneously, only one error is recorded but the athlete should quickly return to the testing position, and counting should resume once subject is set. Subjects that are unable to maintain the testing procedure for a minimum of five seconds at the start are assigned the highest possible score, ten, for that testing condition.

Which foot was tested: Left Right (i.e. which is the non-dominant foot)

Condition Total errors

Double Leg Stance (feet together) of 10

Single leg stance (non-dominant foot) of 10Tandem stance (non-dominant foot at back) of 10

Balance examination score (30 minus total errors) of 30

Coordination examinationUpper limb coordinationFinger-to-nose (FTN) task: “I am going to test your coordination now. Please sit comfortably on the chair with your eyes open and your arm (either right or left) outstretched (shoulder flexed to 90 degrees and elbow and fingers extended). When I give a start signal, I would like you to perform five successive finger to nose repetitions using your index finger to touch the tip of the nose as quickly and as accurately as possible.”

Which arm was tested: Left Right

Scoring: 5 correct repetitions in < 4 seconds = 1

Note for testers: Athletes fail the test if they do not touch their nose, do not fully extend their elbow or do not perform five repetitions. Failure should be scored as 0.

Coordination score of 1

Cognitive assessment Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC)Delayed recall“Do you remember that list of words I read a few times earlier? Tell me as many words from the list as you can remember in any order.“

Circle each word correctly recalled. Total score equals number of words recalled.

List Alternative word list

elbow candle baby fingerapple paper monkey pennycarpet sugar perfume blanketsaddle sandwich sunset lemonbubble wagon iron insect

Delayed recall score of 5

Overall score

Test domain Score

Symptom score of 22 Physical signs score of 2 Glasgow Coma score (E + V + M) of 15 Balance examination score of 30 Coordination score of 1 Subtotal of 70

Orientation score of 5 Immediate memory score of 5 Concentration score of 15 Delayed recall score of 5 SAC subtotal of 30

SCAT2 total of 100

Maddocks Score of 5

Definitive normative data for a SCAT2 “cut-off” score is not available at this time and will be developed in prospective studies. Embedded within the SCAT2 is the SAC score that can be utilized separately in concussion management. The scoring system also takes on particular clinical significance during serial assessment where it can be used to document either a decline or an improvement in neurological functioning.

Scoring data from the SCAT2 or SAC should not be used as a stand alone method to diagnose concussion, measure recovery or make decisions about an athlete’s readiness to return to competition after concussion.

6 7

8



This patient has received an injury to the head. A careful medical examination has been carried out and no sign of any serious complications has been found. It is expected that recovery will be rapid, but the patient will need monitoring for a further period by a responsible adult. Your treating physician will provide guidance as to this timeframe.

If you notice any change in behaviour, vomiting, dizziness, worsening headache, double vision or excessive drowsiness, please telephone the clinic or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.

Other important points:

not use aspirin or anti-inflammatory medication

not drive until medically clearednot train or play sport until medically cleared

Patient’s name

Date / time of injury

Date / time of medical review

Treating physician

Concussion injury advice (To be given to concussed athlete)

Signs to watch forProblems could arise over the first 24-48 hours. You should not be left alone and must go to a hospital at once if you:

Remember, it is better to be safe. Consult your doctor after a suspected concussion.

Return to playAthletes should not be returned to play the same day of injury.When returning athletes to play, they should follow a stepwise symptom-limited program, with stages of progression. For example:1. rest until asymptomatic (physical and mental rest)2. light aerobic exercise (e.g. stationary cycle)3. sport-specific exercise 4. non-contact training drills (start light resistance training)5. full contact training after medical clearance6. return to competition (game play)

There should be approximately 24 hours (or longer) for each stage and the athlete should return to stage 1 if symptoms recur. Resistance training should only be added in the later stages. Medical clearance should be given before return to play.

Athlete InformationAny athlete suspected of having a concussion should be removed from play, and then seek medical evaluation.

Contact details or stampClinic phone number

Additional comments

Tool Test domain Time Score

Date tested Days post injury Symptom score Physical signs score Glasgow Coma score (E + V + M) SCAT2 Balance examination score Coordination score Orientation score Immediate memory score SAC Concentration score Delayed recall score SAC Score

Total SCAT2

Symptom severity score (max possible 132)

Return to play n Y n N n Y n N n Y n N n Y n N


247

SECTION NINE

ADVISORIES

ADVISORY 1 - ADVICE FOR TRAVEL TO TROPICAL AREAS

Sun protection

Limit sun exposure during the hottest part of the day (1000-1400 hours)

Be a shade seeker

Use sunscreen - preferably broad-spectrum 30+ water-resistant. Remember the tops of the ears,back of legs and neck.

Reapply frequently.

Use personal protection:

• broad brimmed hat;• sunglasses (complying with Australian standard #1067); and• light, loose fi tting clothing with long sleeves.

Heat Illness

Heat illness can only be prevented by a fl uid intake adequate to replace increased losses in the tropics.

Note that air conditioning and air travel have a dehydrating effect. Therefore re-hydration should start before stepping onto the plane to travel north.

In addition:

• Avoid caffeine, cola drinks, and alcohol; and• Maintain body weight.

(Refer to Guidelines 2, Management of Thermal Injury)



Intravenous Hydration.

The practice of intravenous hydration prior to a game, or intravenous rehydration during the course of a match, is not permitted in the National Rugby League. Players requiring intravenous infusions for legitimate medical are the only exceptions.

Arboviruses

There are no vaccines available for the important arbovirus diseases in North Queensland. Viz. Dengue, epidemic polyarthritis (Ross River Fever), Barmah Forest Virus and Australian Encephalitis.

NOTE: Dengue is often contracted from daytime mosquito bites.Personal protection measures:

• Wear light colored clothes with long sleeves and long trousers;• Wear closed-in shoes especially between dusk and dawn;• Use repellants (Rid or Bushman’s) to areas of exposed skin both day and night; and• Sleep in screened and/or air conditioned room.

Rickettseal Diseases

Scrub typhus is endemic in certain areas of North Queensland (especially around Tully). The initial symptoms are non-specifi c before the development of eschar and rash.

• Personal protection measures:• avoid areas of secondary vegetation;• Do not sit directly on the ground, use ground sheets; and• Use anti-mite repellent.


249

SECTION NINE

Australian Bat LyssavirusThe only human fatality has occurred at Rockhampton.

Personal protection measures:• Avoid handling injured or sick bats;• If bitten irrigate the wound with soap and water, and seek medical treatment immediately.

Marine StingersSwimming in the sea between the months of October and May should be avoided.Box jellyfi sh inhabit northern Australian waters between November and May. They are a hazard to swimmers in coastal areas and may infl ict potentially fatal stings.

Irukandji, small marine stingers, penetrate “stinger nets’. They are present in North Queensland waters in December and January in large numbers. Their presence is related to onshore winds. The sting is initially mildly painful. After a few minutes the skin shows a circular area of redness and ‘goose pimples’. After about 20-30 minutes, severe backache, abdominal pain and shooting pains in the limbs develop. Occasionally breathing diffi culties occur.

Advice: Do NOT swim in open water or beaches in North Queensland between the months of October to May.

First Aid Treatment: Apply vinegar and then seek medical attention at hospital.

Cyclone Season (November-April)Usually adequate warning is given by the Bureau of Meterology prior to a cyclone affecting coastal areas of NorthernAustralia.

A cyclone watch is issued every 6 hours if there is a strong indication that winds above gale force will affect the coast within 48 hours.

A cyclone warning is issued as soon as gales are expected to affect the coastal area within 24 hours.

It is advisable for all teams visiting Northern Australia during the cyclone season to have contingency plans in place in the event of being caught in a cyclone alert.



ADVISORY 2 - MANAGEMENT OF THERMAL INJURY

Spectrum of thermal injury:

• heat syncope• heat cramp• heat fatigue/heat exhaustion developing into heat shock

NOTE:

Exertion + collapse + rectal temperature > 38 Degrees Celsius = exertion induced heat injury

Prevention

• Adequate period of acclimatisation;• Adequate fl uid intake (pre, during, post event); and• Cease activity if suspect thermal illness (e.g. decrease in performance, excessive fatigue,

poor co-ordination and/or confusion).

Management of Heat Collapse / Heat Exhaustion

(The following guidelines are based on the advice of Dr. David Richards, Medical Coordinator of the ‘City-to-Surf’)

Diagnosis of heat exhaustion.

• In conditions of extreme temperature and humidity, suspect heat exhaustion in a Player who has collapsed during or after the game;

• Rectal temperature of 38 Degrees Celsius or more. (NB: experience has shown that some individuals with relatively low core temperatures who collapse become severely unwell, even though some with higher temperatures do not).

Protocol

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is the fi rst priority


251

SECTION NINE

Treatment of collapse

• Measure rectal temperature[Exertion + collapse + rectal temperature > 38 Degrees Celsius = [Exertion induced heat exhaustion]

• If rectal temperature < 38 Degrees Celsius:

* Symptomatic therapy (remove to shade, remove clothing, ice packs to neck, axillae and groins {6 ice packs}, iced towels to the face + fanning

* Other treatment (oxygen, dextrose, as necessary)

• If rectal temperature > 38 Degrees Celsius:

* Establish IVI access

* Normal saline or Hartman’s solution (< 3 litres) until rectal temp. < 38 Degrees Celsius + lucid + normotensive

* Local ice packs Apply ice packs to neck, axillae and groins (6 ice packs)

• Additional measures (oxygen, dextrose)

* If altered consciousness and low BSL, IVI glucose

Avoid depressants except to control convulsions:

• Discharge only when, Rectal temperature < 38 Degrees Celsius + lucid + ambulant.• If the player remains in a state of collapse, is confused, or if the rectal temperature

remains > 38 Degrees Celsius, immediate transfer to hospital.Club Medical Offi cers and Sports Trainers are urged to fully document all incidents of heat induced exhaustion.



Extreme Conditions of Temperature and Humidity.

All Club medical Offi cers and allied personnel must be aware of, and fully comply with, Section 1.10 of the NRL Operations Manual which makes provision for extraordinary weather conditions. In particular, Section 1.10.3.2 deals with hot weather.

At any Match, should the Club Medical Offi cer for each of the opposing Teams both agree that, in their joint opinion, the prevailing weather conditions necessitate some relief from normal playing conditions, the NRL Ground Manager may approve the following concessions to apply to that match only:

The referee will call a one-minute ‘time-out’ approximately 20 minutes into each half to allow Players to take a fl uid break. Players must remain on the fi eld and may only be attended by the three trainers listed on the Team List. No coaching staff will be permitted on the fi eld. After the break, play will resume in the normal manner.

Trainer’s guidelines will be relaxed so that all three Trainers can carry water throughout the match.

Half-time break will be extended to 15 minutes.

Interchange procedures will be extended to provide for three players from each Team to interchange at thesame time.

Section 1.10.3.3 provides that, in the event the Club Medical Offi cers fail to agree, the Home Team Club Medical Offi cer should contact the Chief Medical Offi cer for a fi nal decision.


253

SECTION EIGHT

Delay or Postponement of Match (Heatwave or excessively hot conditions)

Section 1.10. 3.4 provides:

“Should the Club Medical Offi cer from each of the opposing teams both agree that, in their joint opinion, a Match is to be played in what are considered to be ‘heat wave’ or excessively hot conditions, the two Club Medical Offi cers and the NRL Ground Manager must confer in the fi rst instance, and then liaise with the Chief Medical Offi cer by telephone. If following that telephone conference, the Chief Medical Offi cer is of the opinion that proceeding with the match could be dangerous to the health and safety of the players, the NRL Chief Executive Offi cer or NRL Director of Football must be immediately contacted who may decide (in his absolute discretion) to delay or postpone the match to a date and/ or to a time to be fi xed.”

Explanatory Notes

In hot or humid conditions Club Medical Offi cers from the opposing Teams may request the NRL Ground Manager to allow all three Sports Trainers to carry extra fl uids to Players during the course of a Match. Such a request will be implemented as a matter of course. If the Club Medical Offi cers disagree, the decision rests with the NRL Ground Manager. If there is disagreement between the Club Medical Offi cers, the NRL Ground Managers have been advised to err on the side of caution.

Agreement to allow the three Sports Trainers to access the fi eld during the Match may be introduced without implementation of the other measures outlined to protect the health and safety of Players. However if conditions are such that the implementation of a one-minute fl uid break is considered necessary, then the 15-minute half-time break must also be implemented.

The decision to implement the full measures outlined in Section 1.10.3.2 of the NRL Operations Manual cannot be made without the measurement of ambient temperature and wet bulb temperature by use of the whirling hygrometer.

If the Heat Stress Index % exceeds 150, serious consideration should be given to implementing the full heat guideline provisions. (Experience suggests that Players are able to cope adequately with a Heat Stress Index % of 200)



Fig 1. Heat Stress Index in relation to Air Temperature at various Relative Humidities (RH%)

Fig 1. Heat Stress Index in relation to Air Temperature at various Relative Humidities (RH%)

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

15 20 25 30 35 40 45

Air temperature oC

Hea

t s

tres

s in

dex

% RH approx80%

RH approx70%

RH approx60%

RH approx50%

RH approx40%

RH approx25%

RH approx15%

RH 70%

RH60%RH50%RH40%

RH25%

RH80%

RH15%


255

SECTION EIGHT

If the Heat Stress Index % is below 150, the risk to players should be minimal but the heat provisions can be introduced if both Club Medical Offi cers are in agreement.

Delay or Postponement of a Match

Consideration cannot be given to delaying or postponing a Match unless the ambient temperature, humidity and Heat Stress Index %, as determined at the ground, are conveyed to the Chief MedicalOffi cer.

Whirling Hygrometer (or Whirling Psychrometer)

The ambient temperature and relative humidity at the commencement of each game are to be recorded via the NRL Injury Surveillance System.

The hygrometer should be whirled for 20 seconds on three consecutive occasions and the readings averaged. The humidity is determined by subtracting the wet bulb temperature from the dry bulb temperature and consulting the conversion chart supplied with the instrument.

The Whirling Hygrometer can be obtained from Arthur Bailey Surgico Pty. Ltd. 55 Lilyfi eld Road,Rozelle. NSW 2039. Telephone (02) 9555 1588. Fax (02) 9555 9130. www.abailey.com.au

NB: A request to the Club Medical Offi cer of the NRL to delay or postpone a Match will not be considered in the absence of recorded temperature and humidity fi gures measured on-site at the time by the use of the Whirling Hygrometer, or by a similar scientifi cally accurate device.

The Chief Medical Offi cer of the NRL can be contacted on 0418 439 801.



ADVISORY 4 - OVERSEAS TRAVEL – THERAPEUTIC GOODS ADMINISTRATION, REGULATIONS

THERAPEUTIC GOODS ACT

Taking medication into and out of Australia

Changes have occurred to Customs Regulations related to the movement of medications into and out of Australia

A complete list of medications that are proposed to be taken overseas and brought back should be faxed with travel details, including date of return and point of entry into Australia to the Departmentof Health and Ageing, Treaties and Compliance, Offi ce of Chemical Safety and Environmental Health.

Fax: 02 6289 2500. Or

e-mailed to [email protected]

Regulations in Overseas Countries

• To avoid the possibility of contravening the laws of overseas countries, contact the Embassy / Consulate of the country of destination to determine any special requirements;

• Should the authorities of an overseas country require a letter from the Australian Government, contact the Treaties and Export Section of the TGA on (02) 6289 3255 at least 10 working days prior to departure.

Note: Some countries do not permit the import of certain drugs regardless of the documentation held.


257

SECTION EIGHT

ADVISORY 5 - MEDICAL CARE OF MATCH OFFICIALS

Club Medical Offi cers are committed to assisting Match Offi cials in the management of injury and medical issues related to their health and welfare.

The following procedure should be followed:

1. Match Offi cials injured at training will report their injury to the NRL and to the Chief Medical Offi cer. The injured offi cial will be provided with the contact details of the Club Medical Offi cer closest to their home or place of employment;

2. Club Medical Offi cers are requested to arrange an appointment to see the injured offi cial as soon as possible;

3. The Club Medical Offi cer must complete the Referee Injury Report form and forward a copy to the Chief Medical Offi cer;

4. In the event of an injury to a Match Offi cial during the course of a Match, the Referee’s Trainer should request the Home Team Club Medical Offi cer to examine the injured offi cial at his/her earliest convenience;

5. If ongoing management is required, the Club Medical Offi cer should arrange further consultation and follow up.


259

SECTION EIGHT

© National Rugby League Ltd. (ACN 082 088 962) 2012

This publication is copyright. No part of it may in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical microcopying, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without prior written permission. All enquiries should be addressed to National Rugby League Ltd, Rugby League Central, Sydney, Australia – Tel: 61 2 9359 8500.

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