Sawtell Panthers drop out of Group 2 rugby league competition for 2021
Third team drops out of rugby league competition as work begins behind the scenes to ensure “no player will miss out”
Coffs Harbour
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The Group 2 rugby league draw has been released along with the revelation Sawtell Panthers will not field a first grade side this season.
The withdrawal of the Panthers from Group 2 means just six clubs will compete in the 2021 competition after Orara Valley Axemen and Nambucca Heads Roosters already signalled they would not compete.
It also creates a situation whereby only the bottom placed club in Group 2 will miss out on finals footy.
Group 2 CEO Jim Anderson said the decision to not field a first grade side rested with Sawtell after they put forward a proposal to play in the Reserves, Under 18s and Ladies League Tag competitions only.
Mr Anderson said the administration felt the club had enough players to field a first-grade side and rejected the proposal.
The Advocate understands negotiations are underway between the Panthers and an as-yet-unnamed club to enable registered players to participate in the competition in some form.
“We are endeavouring to make sure no player will miss out on playing footy,” Mr Anderson said.
Mr Anderson added that despite the smaller competition, he was expecting a good season.
“All the other clubs have a strong roster and I feel it will be a lot more even than people might think.”
The loss of the Panthers is cruel blow for rugby league in the region and it appears a number of clubs have been struggling to attract and retain players in the senior ranks.
Both Orara Valley and Nambucca Heads cited a lack of players as reasons for their withdrawal and a month ago Macksville, who will field teams in the competition, revealed they were “desperately” seeking players for Under 18’s, Ladies League Tag, Reserve Grade and First Grade on their Facebook page.
The Group 2 clubs vying for the championship are Coffs Harbour Comets, Bellingen/Dorrigo Magpies, Grafton Ghosts, Macksville Sea Eagles, South Grafton Rebels and the Woolgoolga Seahorses.
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