From Club
As a valued member of the Cronulla Sharks, we believe it to be important to keep you updated on significant matters relating to the club.
In this instance, we bring to your attention the handing down of a suspension by the NRL Integrity Unit of four years on former Sharks contracted player Bronson Xerri.
The finding dictates that Bronson cannot hold an NRL contract nor play in the NRL competition until the 2024 season, with the start of his suspension backdated to November 25, 2019, the time of his positive test. The suspension expires on November 25, 2023.
This matter has been before Sports Integrity Australia and the NRL for a period of more than 12 months and although disappointed by the situation and now ultimate outcome, we are relieved to have a final determination.
This does mean that the Sharks will officially terminate Bronson’s contract and whilst we have been supportive of him through this difficult process, the Club does not condone the use of prohibited substances or anyone contravening the rules of the game.
We are confident we have the protocols and practices to best inform our players, from when they enter our Academy system as 14-year old’s, through to our NRL squad members, on the consequences involved with illegal substance use, both from a health perspective and in relation to the rules in place. We will always place the highest importance on rules, regulations and behaviour and how we expect our players to be compliant at every level.
As a young man, Bronson has time on his side and we hope he can put this behind him and should he choose to, return to one day play in the NRL.
Throughout the process we have offered welfare support to Bronson and should he reach out, we would not hesitate to continue to do so during his time under suspension.
We know our Brand is resilient and our people committed to being best ‘off the field’ as well so just wanted to reassure you of our commitment to upholding our Brand and Company values.
Thanks for your continued support of the Sharks and we look forward to seeing you during the 2021 season.
Kind regards
Dino
