The coaches of the 16 NRL teams met today to review the 2014 season and look at ways to improve the competition in 2015.
The meeting began with 63 seconds silence for cricketer Phillip Hughes and a cricket bat was positioned at the head of the meeting table throughout the conference.
The meeting looked at:
• Possible innovations for the future including a standardised time keeping system for broadcasters, stadia and coaches boxes
• The success of 2014 rule changes which saw more tries and the ball in play for longer periods
• The first year of the new concussion rules
• The performance of referees in 2014
• The effectiveness of rules ensuring player safety including clamping down on cannonball and lifting tackles
• A review of the Match Review Committee’s activities
NRL Head of Football, Todd Greenberg said it was the first time the coaches from all 16 teams had taken part in the conference.
He said feedback from the coaches would be used to make further improvements to the game in 2015 and beyond.
“The quality of football in 2014 was outstanding so there is no need for major changes to the rules,” he said.
“But if we can improve our consistency and communication with coaches we will deliver an even better product in 2015.
Melbourne Coach, Craig Bellamy said the conference was an opportunity to put forward views to the NRL on how the game is developing.
“I think every coach welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on how we can make the game an even better spectacle for the fans,” he said.
“These meetings give us information about everything from refereeing trends to player safety so they are invaluable as we approach the 2015 season.”
