SYDNEY - He's called for detailed governance reports from every NRL club, but league boss David Gallop doesn't expect to find problems.
Instead, the NRL chief executive says it is just the right time to check clubs' procedures in the wake of the latest scandal to rock embattled Cronulla.
Former Sharks chief executive Tony Zappia conceded on Tuesday he'd failed to tell his board about A$30,000 ($38,230) in donations from secret club benefactor Clint Elford.
Police then arrested Elford and charged him with medical insurance fraud shortly after he'd met with the Sharks board, forcing Gallop to label the situation a "shemozzle".
The NRL dragged the league's 15 other clubs into the issue on Wednesday when they released a directive asking each to prepare a detailed report on how they handle incoming cash.
But Gallop denied the move suggested the NRL felt the problem was systemic in the game.
"I would be very surprised if there's something of this nature," he said.
"But it's opportune to get the clubs to look at how they account for monies received from donations or otherwise.
"Just to make sure they've got checks and balances in place for accounting for their money and I expect that most places will be in good shape."
Gallop said the Sharks will deliver a report on the donations by Elford, which Zappia is reported to have placed in a secret trust fund called the Beyond Sharks Foundation.
"We're waiting to receive a report from the Sharks board but obviously they'll be looking to tighten up their financial practices," Gallop said.
"But I'd expect this is pretty much a one-off."
The NRL board also took the time on Wednesday to urge clubs to promote more women to senior roles, including board positions.
"As we prepare for the final women in league dinner with the NSW Blues this evening there has been a real spotlight placed on the achievements of women in the game," Gallop said.
"The board is strongly of the view that there are a large number of women in corporate life who could add real value to rugby league clubs at a board level as well as in administrative roles.
"It is important going forward that the make-up of boards in some way reflects the fact that almost half the game's fans are women."
- AAP
SYDNEY - He's called for detailed governance reports from every NRL club, but league boss David Gallop doesn't expect to find problems.
Instead, the NRL chief executive says it is just the right time to check clubs' procedures in the wake of the latest scandal to rock embattled Cronulla.
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