Bruce Hatcher has been announced as the new Chairman of the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) following the retirement of Peter Betros.
Mr Betros informed the QRL Board at Friday morning’s AGM of his decision to retire after 17 years of service, including the past four as Chairman.
“I am retiring with the game in great shape on and off the field and I wish incoming Chairman, Bruce Hatcher, ongoing success,” Mr Betros said.
A former leading Queensland referee, company director and businessman, Mr Betros has witnessed enormous change in the game and how it is administered.
“When I first was appointed to the Board, the QRL was run by the Managing Director and a handful of employees,” he said.
“As we approach the start of the 2017 season, I’m immensely proud of the fact that the game in this state is now serviced by a dedicated team at the QRL which includes Football, Commercial, Finance, Media and Digital staff.
“This team works hard to ensure more than 60,000 junior and senior participants play our game each week, and provides support for the many thousands of volunteers who play a pivotal role as well.
“It is most satisfying to see the rise in Operations Managers, with 21 full-time staff now employed on the ground to assist grassroots leagues.”
During his tenure as Chairman, the XXXX Queensland Maroons enjoyed a sustained run of success in the Origin arena.
Other highlights include:
• The establishment of the Intrust Super Cup as the game’s premier second-tier competition and the addition of the NRL State Championship match to the rugby league calendar.
• The restructure of the game’s national administration with the formation of the ARLC.
• The establishment of RLCQ, the new home of rugby league in Queensland.
• The growth and success of Country Week.
QRL Managing Director Robert Moore congratulated Mr Betros on his contribution.
“On behalf of the Board and the entire rugby league community, I would like to congratulate Peter on his achievements and wish him well in retirement,” Mr Moore said.
“Few can match Peter’s understanding and passion for all levels of the game; and these traits have helped position us where we are today.”
Mr Moore said he will now focus on taking the game forward with new Chairman Hatcher, a family business consultant with an extensive business and rugby league background.
“It’s been a privilege to serve on the QRL Board as an Independent Director and I look forward to the responsibilities and challenges that come with being the Chairman of this fantastic organisation,” Mr Hatcher said.
